To mark International Earth Day, the Sustainability Committees of the Institute for Integrative Systems Biology I2SysBio (UV-CSIC) and the Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology IATA (CSIC) organised a scientific conference on 16 April entitled ‘How can your science help sustainability?’ in the IATA Assembly Hall.

The aim of the event was to reflect on the role of science in sustainable development and to promote synergies between researchers from different areas of knowledge. The conference brought together representatives from eight CSIC institutes in the Valencian Community, who showcased the variety of scientific approaches capable of providing solutions to mitigate climate change and move towards a more sustainable society.

The event was opened by Juan Fuster, Institutional Delegate of the CSIC in the Valencian Community, Ana Conesa, member of the Sustainability Committee of I2SysBio, and Alba Pérez, member of the Sustainability Committee of IATA.

The first part of the conference brought together eight researchers from different CSIC institutes in the Valencian Community who presented their lines of research related to sustainability. Topics as diverse as bioprospecting and the use of microorganisms to contribute to greater sustainability in processes; the urban food metabolism of the city of Valencia; the optimisation of fermentation processes with digital tools; the use of electrochemistry; the impact of plastics on marine ecosystems; artificial intelligence applied to urban mobility; improving food availability through genetic modification of plants; and the importance of environmental identity in the co-creation of knowledge on sustainability.

The presentations generated an enriching debate with the audience. The diversity of approaches highlighted the wide range of disciplines that can contribute to sustainability, as well as the opportunities for collaboration between research groups with common goals.

In the second block, Carla Rubio, head of the Knowledge Transfer Unit at I2SysBio, gave a presentation focused on national and international funding opportunities for scientific projects in the field of sustainability.

The day ended with a group discussion in which attendees were able to exchange ideas and explore possible future collaborations.

With this activity, the CSIC institutes in the Valencian Community reinforce their commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development, aligning themselves with the global objectives established for the preservation of the planet.

Source: IATA News