Adekunle Owolabi
The 2023 World Sustainability Conference, hosted by The Green Institute and the HeTa Food Research Centre of Excellence at the University of Birmingham, concluded on a high note, with participants emphasizing the need for continued interdisciplinary collaboration to address global sustainability challenges.
The conference, held in a hybrid format, brought together a diverse array of experts from academia, industry, and government to explore the theme “Harnessing the Intersection of Food, Water, and Energy for a Sustainable Future.”
Innovative Paper Submissions and Discussions
The conference featured a range of paper submissions across multiple sub-themes: Education, Environment, Equity, Energy, and Economics. These papers highlighted innovative approaches in areas such as sustainable agriculture education, water conservation, renewable energy, and sustainable economic development. The diversity of topics underscored the multifaceted nature of sustainability challenges in the 21st century.
Distinguished Speakers and Panellists
Panel 1 offered in-depth discussions on Circular Economy strategies, led by experts like Dr. Taghi Miri and Dr. Zainab T. A. Al-Sharify.
Key Presentations included Dr. Taridi Ridho’s examination of sustainable finance, Farah Attallah’s analysis of sustainable business models in healthcare NGOs, and Garima Singh’s study on the impact of climate change on urban food security.
Additional presentations covered a wide range of topics, from Prof. Tochukwu Nwagu’s research on mango kernel seed valorisation to Dr. Nikos Chatzistamoulou’s insights into SMEs’ sustainability commitments.
Highlighting Key Addresses
The conference featured a special address by Dr. Lubna Khamis Mahdi, representing the Iraqi Minister for Education, and a keynote speech by Professor Fiona Nunan, focusing on collaborative approaches for harmonizing livelihood and environmental conservation.
Outcomes and Future Directions
The conference concluded with reflective remarks from Dr. Adenike A. Akinsemolu, Dr. Taghi Miri, Dr. Zainab T. A. Al-Sharify and Dr. Helen N. Onyeaka. Participants and organizers emphasized the need for continued interdisciplinary collaboration and the application of the insights gained to real-world sustainability challenges.
Continuing the Conversation
The University of Birmingham and The Green Institute, encouraged by the success of the conference, aim to maintain the momentum through continued research, collaboration, and dialogue. The insights and connections forged at this event are expected to catalyse further innovative solutions and partnerships in the realm of sustainability.
