The search for a global solution to achieving sustainable development is coming to the Humber. The 18th International Sustainable Development Research Conference, which is being hosted by the University of Hull from 24to 26 June, is attracting 200 visitors to the city from more than 25 countries.

The delegates represent the differing interests of nations across the world and will share expertise on a range of issues from social, policy, economic, business and engineering perspectives. Subject matter will include waste management, renewable energy, housing, supply chain cooperation, water supply and company environmental management. The conference, which provides a forum for some of the world’s most eminent specialists in sustainability, will help to influence policy and strategy that is needed to make global progress towards sustainable development.

With the theme, People, Progress and Environmental Protection, it follows the Rio+20 Earth Summit on 20-22 June, with some delegates coming to Hull straight from Brazil. Dr Pauline Deutz, conference co-chair and a lecturer at the Department of Geography, explains that the theme recognised that social progress, economic growth and protection of the environment needed to be advanced together in order to meet current needs without compromising the requirements of future generations.

“Understanding the connections between people, economic progress and the environment is vital if we are to accelerate sustainable development,” she says. “Building on the Rio Earth Summit, the intention is to use the Humber region as a case study to explore the complex process of development.”

Speakers include Lord Deben (The Rt Hon John Gummer), Professor Julian Agyman, Tufts University, Boston and Dr Tony Edwards, Humber Industry Nature Conservation Association. The delegates are taking part in excursions to North Cave Wetlands Reserve and Waters’ Edge Country Park Nature Reserve at Barton-upon-Humber, both old industrial sites, and Vivergo Fuels at Saltend.

Prof Stephanie Haywood, Director of CASS, the University’s business-facing renewable energy and environment hub, concludes: “The Humber is as a leading destination for environmental and energy related research and developments so highly appropriate for a conference of this nature.”

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18th International Sustainable Development Research Conference