”If the Internet were a country, it would be the sixth biggest electricity consumer on the planet” (Andrae, 2020).

The phrase was quoted by   (SID 2025), a scientific event that took place on November 6th and 7th at Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, Romania.

The conference, which has become emblematic on the map of innovative research in Romania, brought together experts from the European Commission, leading figures from academia, and industry specialists who explored emerging technologies as drivers of digital transformation in business and education. Such transformations are meant to generate sustainable development and reduce the innovation gap between Romania and other European countries.

The panel dedicated to green digital transition featured comprehensive presentations delivered by companies offering integrated solutions in the design and implementation of data centers, or project optimizing public transit through an app-based solution, as well as insights into Romania’s digital maturity, plus Renewable Energy Sources and Circular Economy applied in the academic community, driving the green digitalization in agriculture.

In this context, where digitalization has become a defining feature of contemporary societal development, it is increasingly important to discuss how digital transition represents a complex sociocultural process, requiring coordinated policy responses accompanied by strategies and robust regulatory frameworks.

The presentation by Amanda Machin and Karin Fossheim about the Recode-MLG project invited a much-needed dialogue within society—one that, indeed, offered the audience an additional theme for reflection:

• Is policy making on twin transition dominated by industry interests?
• How can citizens be more involved in policy making?
• How can citizens be better represented in policy making?
• Can co-creation work as a mechanism of participation?

By promoting interoperable data systems, improved policy coordination, and evidence-based governance, the project aligns with broader European objectives for digital resilience. These themes were also central to the Sibiu Innovation Days conference.

The convergence of these efforts illustrates how local and transnational initiatives can jointly advance digital transformation, provided that they are supported by inclusive strategies and coherent governance structures.

Clear communication about the twin transition also empowers individuals to adapt to new requirements, such as developing digital skills or supporting sustainable behaviors. Without accessible explanations, these large societal changes may seem abstract or imposed from above, generating resistance or confusion. By speaking openly and simply about the twin transition, institutions can strengthen public engagement, reduce misinformation, and encourage a shared sense of responsibility for building a more digital and environmentally sustainable future.

These are a couple of questions we aim to address through the RECODE Project.

And, notably, this is precisely what unfolded in Sibiu, Romania, at SID 2025, before an audience of opinion leaders.