Sessions

Environmental Biotechnology

Environmental Biotechnology is the application of biological processes and organisms to solve environmental problems and promote sustainability. It involves the use of microbes, plants, and enzymes to treat pollutants, manage waste, and restore contaminated environments.

Key applications include bioremediation (cleaning up oil spills and heavy metals), wastewater treatment, biofiltration, and the development of eco-friendly products like biodegradable plastics. Environmental biotechnology plays a crucial role in reducing pollution, conserving natural resources, and supporting green technologies, making it an essential field in the fight against environmental degradation and climate change.

Atmosphere and Metrology

This topic explores the intersection of atmospheric science and metrology—the science of measurement—highlighting how precise and accurate measurements are essential for understanding and monitoring Earth's atmosphere. From tracking greenhouse gas concentrations and air pollutants to measuring temperature, humidity, and pressure, reliable data forms the foundation for climate research, weather forecasting, and environmental policy.

It covers advancements in measurement technologies, instrument calibration, and standardization practices that ensure consistency across global monitoring networks. Discussions include the role of metrology in satellite observations, atmospheric modeling, and international climate assessments. Experts, scientists, and engineers aim to improve data quality and support informed decision-making in the face of climate change.

GIS, Remote Sensing and Geospatial Sciences

GIS, Remote Sensing, and Geospatial Sciences are powerful tools used to collect, analyze, and interpret spatial and geographic data for understanding Earth's surface and environmental processes.

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) allow users to visualize and analyze spatial data through layered digital maps, supporting decision-making in urban planning, agriculture, disaster management, and environmental monitoring. Remote sensing involves collecting data from satellites or aerial sensors to monitor changes in land use, vegetation, water bodies, and climate variables. Together, these technologies form the backbone of geospatial sciences, enabling real-time environmental assessments, resource management, and planning for sustainable development.

Climate change risk, policy and law

Climate Change Risk, Policy, and Law examines the risks posed by climate change—such as rising sea levels, extreme weather, food insecurity, and economic disruption—and the legal and policy frameworks developed to address them. It involves assessing vulnerabilities, developing adaptation and mitigation strategies, and creating laws and regulations that guide climate action at local, national, and international levels.

This field plays a crucial role in shaping climate governance, ensuring environmental justice, and supporting global efforts like the Paris Agreement. It brings together scientists, policymakers, legal experts, and communities to build resilient societies and enforce accountability in tackling climate-related challenges.

Climate-Induced Migration and Displacement

As climate change intensifies, more communities around the world are being forced to leave their homes due to rising sea levels, prolonged droughts, desertification, floods, and extreme weather events. This phenomenon, known as climate-induced migration, is becoming one of the most pressing humanitarian and policy challenges of our time.

This topic explores the causes, patterns, and impacts of climate-driven displacement, both within countries and across borders. It also delves into the legal, social, and economic implications for migrants and host communities, as well as the gaps in international protection frameworks. Focus is given to developing adaptive strategies, strengthening climate-resilient infrastructure, and promoting inclusive policies that protect the rights and dignity of those displaced by climate events.

Green energy and Renewable energy

Green Energy and Renewable Energy refer to energy sources that are clean, sustainable, and environmentally friendly. Renewable energy comes from natural sources that are constantly replenished—such as sunlight, wind, rain, tides, and geothermal heat—while green energy specifically refers to renewable sources that have minimal environmental impact.

These energy forms help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, and dependency on fossil fuels. Technologies like solar panels, wind turbines, hydropower, and geothermal systems are central to this transition. Promoting green and renewable energy is essential for combating climate change, ensuring energy security, and supporting sustainable development.

Health Impacts of Climate Change

Climate change poses significant risks to human health, both directly and indirectly. Rising temperatures, air pollution, and extreme weather events such as heatwaves, floods, and wildfires can lead to increased respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, heat-related illnesses, and injuries. Changes in climate also influence the spread of vector-borne diseases like malaria, dengue, and Lyme disease, as well as waterborne infections due to compromised sanitation.

Beyond physical health, climate change affects mental well-being, especially in communities facing displacement, food insecurity, and frequent climate disasters. This topic emphasizes the urgent need for healthcare adaptation strategies, climate-informed public health policies, early warning systems, and community-based resilience programs to protect vulnerable populations. It invites collaboration among climate scientists, healthcare professionals, policy makers, and social workers to safeguard global health in a changing climate.

Urban Climate Resilience and Smart Cities

Urban areas are increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, including extreme heat, flooding, sea-level rise, and infrastructure stress. This topic focuses on building climate-resilient cities that can adapt to and recover from these environmental challenges while promoting sustainability and livability.

It highlights innovative approaches such as smart infrastructure, green buildings, urban greening, climate-responsive architecture, and the use of data-driven technologies (like IoT and AI) to monitor and manage resources efficiently. The integration of renewable energy systems, sustainable transport, and participatory urban planning are also central. This area encourages collaboration among urban planners, engineers, policymakers, and citizens to transform cities into climate-resilient, tech-enabled, and inclusive spaces for the future.

Soil Ecology, Soil Contamination and Soil Sciences

Soil Ecology, Soil Contamination, and Soil Sciences explore the vital role of soil in supporting ecosystems, agriculture, and environmental health.

Soil ecology studies the interactions between soil organisms and their environment, which are essential for nutrient cycling, organic matter decomposition, and plant growth. Soil contamination addresses the presence of harmful pollutants—like heavy metals, pesticides, and industrial waste—that degrade soil quality and pose risks to human and environmental health. Soil sciences encompass a broad field that includes soil chemistry, physics, biology, and fertility, aiming to understand and manage soil resources for sustainable agriculture, land use, and climate resilience.

Nuclear power and sedimentology

Nuclear Power is a form of energy produced through nuclear reactions—most commonly by splitting atoms of uranium in a process called nuclear fission. This releases a large amount of heat, which is used to generate steam and drive turbines that produce electricity.

Nuclear power is considered a low-carbon energy source, as it emits minimal greenhouse gases during operation. It plays a key role in reducing dependence on fossil fuels and combating climate change. However, challenges include radioactive waste management, high construction costs, and safety concerns related to potential accidents. With advances in technology, such as small modular reactors (SMRs) and fusion research, nuclear energy continues to evolve as a potential cornerstone of a sustainable energy future.

Sedimentology is the study of how sediments and sedimentary rocks form, are transported, and are deposited. It's a branch of geology that examines the physical and chemical properties of sedimentary rocks. 

Environmental Economics and Resource Management

Environmental Economics and Resource Management focuses on the efficient and sustainable use of natural resources while balancing economic development with environmental protection. Environmental economics studies the costs and benefits of environmental policies, pollution control, and conservation efforts, providing tools like carbon pricing, green taxes, and incentives for sustainable practices.

Resource management involves planning and regulating the use of renewable and non-renewable resources—such as water, forests, minerals, and energy—to prevent depletion and ensure long-term availability. Together, these disciplines support informed decision-making, sustainable development, and the transition to a low-carbon, resource-efficient economy.

Aquaculture and Fisheries

Aquaculture and Fisheries is the study and management of aquatic organisms—such as fish, shellfish, and aquatic plants—for food production, conservation, and economic development. Fisheries focus on the sustainable harvesting of wild aquatic species, while aquaculture (or fish farming) involves the controlled breeding, rearing, and harvesting of aquatic species in various environments.

This field addresses challenges such as overfishing, habitat loss, pollution, and the impacts of climate change on aquatic ecosystems. It promotes sustainable practices, resource management, and innovative technologies to ensure food security, protect biodiversity, and support the livelihoods of communities that depend on marine and freshwater resources.

Hydrology, Hydrogeology and Hydrologic Engineering

Hydrology, Hydrogeology, and Hydrologic Engineering are interconnected fields that study the movement, distribution, and management of water resources on Earth.

Hydrology focuses on the water cycle, including precipitation, evaporation, runoff, and infiltration, to understand how water moves through the environment. Hydrogeology specifically examines groundwater—its occurrence, movement, and interaction with rocks and soils—playing a key role in managing aquifers and drinking water sources. Hydrologic engineering applies this knowledge to design and implement systems for water conservation, flood control, irrigation, and urban drainage. Together, these disciplines are vital for sustainable water management, disaster prevention, and adapting to climate change impacts.

Ecological Sustainability and Ecological Farming

Ecological Sustainability and Ecological Farming focus on maintaining the health of ecosystems while meeting human needs in a balanced and responsible way. Ecological sustainability emphasizes the long-term preservation of natural resources, biodiversity, and ecosystem functions by minimizing human impact and promoting harmony with the environment.

Ecological farming, also known as eco-agriculture or sustainable farming, applies these principles to agriculture. It avoids synthetic chemicals, promotes biodiversity, improves soil health, and relies on natural processes for crop and livestock production. This approach supports food security, reduces environmental degradation, and fosters resilience to climate change, making it a key strategy for sustainable development.

Forest zoology and entomology

Forest Zoology and Entomology focus on the study of animals and insects within forest ecosystems, exploring their roles, interactions, and impact on forest health and biodiversity.

Forest zoology examines the behavior, ecology, and conservation of mammals, birds, reptiles, and other wildlife inhabiting forest environments. Entomology, a branch of zoology, specifically studies insects—key players in pollination, decomposition, and as part of the food web. This field also addresses forest pests and their management. Together, these disciplines contribute to sustainable forest management, biodiversity conservation, and understanding how fauna respond to environmental changes such as deforestation and climate change.

Green House Effect and Ozone Depletion

Greenhouse Effect and Ozone Depletion are two distinct but critical environmental issues affecting Earth's atmosphere.

The greenhouse effect is a natural process where greenhouse gases (like CO₂, CH₄, and water vapor) trap heat in the atmosphere, keeping the planet warm enough to support life. However, human activities—especially the burning of fossil fuels—have intensified this effect, leading to global warming and climate change.

Ozone depletion, on the other hand, refers to the thinning of the ozone layer in the stratosphere, mainly caused by human-made chemicals like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). The ozone layer protects life on Earth by absorbing harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Depletion increases the risk of skin cancer, cataracts, and ecological damage. Global efforts like the Montreal Protocol have been key in reducing ozone-depleting substances and aiding the recovery of the ozone layer.

Natural Hazards and Disaster Management

Natural Hazards and Disaster Management focuses on understanding, preparing for, and responding to natural events such as earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, wildfires, tsunamis, and landslides that can cause significant harm to people, property, and the environment.

Disaster management involves risk assessment, early warning systems, emergency planning, mitigation strategies, and post-disaster recovery efforts. The goal is to reduce the impact of natural hazards, protect communities, and build resilience through education, infrastructure planning, policy development, and coordinated emergency response systems.

Agrobiodiversity and Agroecology

Agrobiodiversity and Agroecology are key concepts in sustainable farming that focus on enhancing biodiversity and applying ecological principles to agriculture. Agrobiodiversity refers to the variety and variability of plants, animals, and microorganisms used in food production, which helps improve resilience to pests, diseases, and climate change.

Agroecology integrates ecological science with traditional knowledge and farming practices to create environmentally sound and socially just agricultural systems. Together, these fields promote soil health, biodiversity conservation, reduced chemical inputs, and stronger food sovereignty, contributing to more sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture.

Biodiversity and Ecosystems Restoration

Biodiversity and Ecosystems Restoration focuses on conserving biological diversity and rehabilitating degraded ecosystems to ensure their health, resilience, and ability to provide essential services. Biodiversity encompasses the variety of life on Earth—plants, animals, microorganisms, and their habitats—while ecosystem restoration involves reversing environmental damage caused by deforestation, pollution, climate change, and other human activities.

This field promotes actions such as reforestation, wetland restoration, invasive species control, and habitat reconstruction to bring ecosystems back to a balanced state. By restoring biodiversity, we support food security, clean air and water, climate regulation, and the overall stability of natural systems vital for life on Earth.

Biofuels, Biomass and Bioenergy

Biofuels, Biomass, and Bioenergy refer to renewable energy sources derived from organic materials. Biomass includes plant material, agricultural waste, and other biological substances that can be used to produce biofuels—such as ethanol, biodiesel, and biogas—which serve as alternatives to fossil fuels.

Bioenergy is the energy generated from biomass through processes like combustion, fermentation, or gasification. These technologies reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote energy security, and support rural economies. By converting waste into energy, this field contributes to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future while reducing reliance on non-renewable resources.

CO2 Capture and Sequestration

CO₂ Capture and Sequestration (CCS) is a climate change mitigation strategy that involves capturing carbon dioxide emissions from industrial processes or power plants and storing them to prevent their release into the atmosphere. This technology is crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, especially in sectors that are difficult to decarbonize.

The process includes three main steps: capturing CO₂ at the source, transporting it (usually via pipelines), and sequestering it in geological formations such as depleted oil and gas fields or deep saline aquifers. CCS helps in achieving net-zero emission goals and can be combined with bioenergy (known as BECCS) for negative emissions, making it a key tool in combating global warming.

Oceanography and Marine change

Oceanography and Marine Change focuses on the study of oceans and seas, including their physical, chemical, biological, and geological characteristics, as well as the changes they undergo due to natural processes and human activities. It examines issues such as rising sea levels, ocean acidification, marine pollution, warming waters, and shifting marine biodiversity.

Understanding marine change is essential for protecting coastal ecosystems, sustaining fisheries, and addressing the broader impacts of climate change on ocean health. This field supports the development of conservation strategies, marine resource management, and policies aimed at preserving oceanic environments for future generations.

Sustainable agriculture and Bioresources

Sustainable Agriculture and Bioresources focuses on farming practices that meet current food and resource needs without compromising the ability of future generations to do the same. It emphasizes environmental health, economic viability, and social equity by promoting efficient use of natural resources, reducing environmental impact, and supporting rural livelihoods.

Bioresources refer to renewable biological materials—such as crops, livestock, forests, and microorganisms—that can be sustainably managed for food, energy, and industrial use. This field encourages innovations in organic farming, agroforestry, soil health, and the use of bio-based products to build resilient, eco-friendly agricultural systems.

Environmental Pollution and Control

Environmental Pollution and Control focuses on understanding the sources, types, and impacts of pollution on the environment and human health, as well as developing strategies to prevent, reduce, and manage it. This includes pollution of air, water, and soil caused by industrial activities, agriculture, waste disposal, and urbanization.

The field emphasizes the use of modern technologies, regulatory policies, and sustainable practices to control pollution and restore environmental quality. Solutions may involve filtration systems, cleaner production methods, emission controls, and environmental monitoring—all aimed at minimizing harm to ecosystems and supporting a healthier, more sustainable world.

Technology innovation for climate solutions

Technology Innovation for Climate Solutions focuses on the development and application of advanced technologies to mitigate and adapt to the effects of climate change. It includes innovations in renewable energy, carbon capture and storage, sustainable agriculture, smart grids, electric mobility, and climate-resilient infrastructure.

These technologies aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance energy efficiency, and improve resource management. Digital tools like artificial intelligence, remote sensing, and data analytics also play a significant role in monitoring environmental changes and guiding informed policy decisions. Embracing technological innovation is essential for accelerating the global transition to a low-carbon, climate-resilient future.

Environmental Engineering and Biochemistry

Environmental Engineering and Biochemistry is an interdisciplinary field that merges engineering principles with biochemical science to address environmental issues. It focuses on developing and applying technologies that use biological and chemical processes to treat pollution, manage waste, and improve environmental quality. This includes processes like wastewater treatment using microbes, bioremediation of contaminated soils, and the development of environmentally friendly materials and systems.

By combining the problem-solving approach of engineering with the molecular insights of biochemistry, this field plays a crucial role in creating sustainable solutions for cleaner air, water, and soil. It supports public health, ecosystem protection, and helps industries reduce their environmental impact through innovative, science-based strategies.

Global warming, Recycling and Waste Management

Global warming is the long-term heating of Earth's surface observed since the pre-industrial period (between 1850 and 1900) due to human activities, primarily fossil fuel burning, which increases heat-trapping greenhouse gas levels in Earth's atmosphere.

Recycling and Waste Management involves the collection, processing, and proper disposal or reuse of waste materials to minimize environmental impact and conserve natural resources. Recycling focuses on converting waste—like paper, plastic, metal, and glass—into new, usable products, reducing the need for raw materials and energy.

Waste management includes a broader system of waste handling, including reduction, reuse, recycling, composting, and safe disposal of hazardous and non-hazardous waste. Effective practices help prevent pollution, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and support a circular economy where materials are continually reused, promoting sustainability and environmental health.

Bioremediation and Biodegradation

Bioremediation and Biodegradation are natural processes that use living organisms—mainly microbes, fungi, and plants—to break down or neutralize pollutants in the environment. Biodegradation refers to the breakdown of organic substances by microorganisms into simpler, non-toxic compounds, while bioremediation is the applied use of this process to clean up contaminated soil, water, or air.

These eco-friendly methods are widely used to treat oil spills, heavy metals, pesticides, and industrial waste, offering a sustainable alternative to chemical or physical cleanup techniques. By harnessing the power of biology, bioremediation and biodegradation help restore polluted environments and protect ecosystem and human health.

Space monitoring of climate variable

Space Monitoring of Climate Variables involves the use of satellites and space-based technologies to observe and measure key climate indicators on a global scale. These variables include temperature, greenhouse gas concentrations, sea level rise, ice cover, cloud patterns, and vegetation changes.

By providing accurate, continuous, and large-scale data, space monitoring plays a vital role in understanding climate change, validating climate models, and informing policy decisions. It enhances our ability to detect environmental trends, assess natural disasters, and support sustainable development through improved environmental management and early warning systems.

Empowering Youth for Climate Leadership

Empowering Youth for Climate Leadership emphasizes the critical role young people play in addressing climate change and shaping a sustainable future. It involves providing youth with the knowledge, skills, platforms, and opportunities to engage in climate action, policymaking, innovation, and community leadership.

Through education, advocacy, mentorship, and participation in global climate movements, youth can drive change at local and international levels. Empowering them fosters creative solutions, intergenerational collaboration, and long-term commitment to environmental stewardship—ensuring that the next generation is equipped and inspired to lead the fight against climate change.