In response to multiple requests, the submission deadline for session proposals for the second Sustainability Research and Innovation (SRI) Congress, which will be held at the University of Pretoria’s (UP) Future Africa Institute, has been extended to 18 February 2022.

The SRI congress is a series of gatherings that unite global researchers, experts, industries and innovators to inspire action and promote a sustainability transformation.

The first congress was held in June 2021, and brought together over 700 speakers and more than 2 000 participants from 100 countries. More than 2 000 international participants are expected to engage in this year’s hybrid event, which will take place from 20 to 24 June. The programme will feature over 100 sessions and events geared towards moving the needle towards sustainability. 

Session proposals are open to groups composed of anyone working in sustainability science and practice; this includes the research sector, government and other fields of interest such as business, philanthropy, art and civil society.

Proposals are based on four themes: ‘Nexus Issues’, ‘Different Ways of Knowing’, ‘New Horizons’, and ‘African Science and Innovation’. ‘Nexus Issues’ encompasses novel perspectives that look at critical intersections in multiple areas, including sustainable food systems and human well-being; resilience, adaptation and addressing risk; evidence-based and actionable contributions to the Sustainable Development Goals and beyond; narratives of progress, wealth and well-being; water, food, energy, society; resource-use efficiency. ‘Different Ways of Knowing’ recognises that knowledge is versatile and focuses on exploring various ways of understanding, conceptualising and learning about the world. Under the ‘New Horizons’ theme, the call is open to new and unexpected ideas to explore emerging issues and trends that will shape the future world.

‘African Science and Innovation’ showcases the richness of African scientific advancements in sustainability, and is a key objective of SRI2022. From tested local solutions to advanced academic research, Africa has a wealth of knowledge and innovation to offer globally. In addition, SRI2022 is hoping to strengthen networks and the inter-African dialogue by offering an inclusive platform for increased visibility and collaboration.

Proposals can be submitted in English, French, Japanese, Mandarin and Spanish, and will be accepted for both online and hybrid sessions. The congress is particularly interested in supporting contributions from young and early-career professionals, indigenous groups, and participants from low- and middle-income countries.

For more information on the congress themes, session types, submission guidelines and selection criteria, go to https://sri2022.org/. To submit a paper, click here.