Integrated peatland restoration and conservation Protecting and restoring critical carbon sinks while safeguarding biodiversity Integrated peatland restoration and conservation Peatlands are critical carbon sinks that regulate the global climate, support biodiversity and sustain local livelihoods. However, they are increasingly threatened by climate change, drainage, deforestation, agricultural conversion, peat extraction and wildfires. This research track explores science-driven solutions for peatland restoration, including rewetting strategies, native vegetation replanting and fire prevention measures. It also examines ways to integrate conservation efforts with community well-being, ensuring long-term ecological and economic benefits.
Sustainable water infrastructure Advancing innovative solutions for resilient and equitable water management Sustainable water infrastructure Solving today’s water management challenges requires building sustainable water infrastructure that enhances ecological health, promotes social equity, and strengthens climate resilience. This research track focuses on developing nature-based solutions that integrate green spaces for flood control, wastewater management systems designed to minimise environmental impact, and AI-powered smart water networks that optimise distribution and detect leaks in real time.
Planetary and human health Exploring the interconnectedness of ecosystem health and human wellbeing Planetary and human health The health of our ecosystems and human well-being are deeply interconnected. This research track examines how ecosystem changes influence the risks of zoonotic diseases, identifies hotspots for effective management and prevention, and assesses the physical and psychological benefits of green spaces and advocating for their integration into city planning. The research also explores dietary shifts that improve human health and reduce environmental impact.
Marine environmental sustainability Safeguarding oceans and coastal ecosystems through science-driven strategies, balancing environmental health with human needs Marine environmental sustainability The health of our oceans and coastal ecosystems is essential for climate stability, biodiversity and human well-being. This research track co-develops science-based policies in collaboration with government agencies, such as the Ministry of National Development. The work includes designing monitoring systems for marine pollution and human behavioural change interventions. It advocates for conserving blue carbon ecosystems such as seagrasses, mangroves and salt marshes – through rehabilitating reefs, studying ecosystem fragmentation and identifying conservation hotspots.
Water, energy and food security Ensuring sustainable access to life’s essentials through holistic, systems-based approaches Water, energy and food security Ensuring a sustainable future requires equitable access to essential resources such as water, energy, and food. This research track takes a systems-based approach, fostering global collaboration to tackle such complex challenges. Working with partners like the University of Illinois, researchers address climate threats to agri-food systems in Southeast Asia. Precision agriculture plays a central role, advancing AI-driven technologies for optimized irrigation and nutrient application to reduce water and energy use while boosting agricultural productivity. The work also focuses on improving resource efficiency through recycling and upcycling, developing novel food sources, crop diversification to produce nutrient-rich low-input food, empowering smallholder farmers with technology and financial security, and promoting sustainable farming practices to build resilient communities and agricultural systems.
