Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi Leads Global Ocean Dialogue At IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025

Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi (SUAD) significantly contributed to the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025, held in Abu Dhabi from October 9th to 15th. The event gathered scientists, policy experts, academics, artists, and students globally. SUAD organised panel sessions, workshops, an art exhibition, and student volunteer activities to highlight its leadership in marine science and environmental innovation.

Dr. Clio Chaveneau, Head of SAFIR Research Institute at SUAD, introduced the university's new Ocean Institute. This interdisciplinary centre focuses on marine studies. Her presentation discussed the development of marine education in the UAE and emphasised collaboration between academia and industry to tackle ocean challenges both regionally and globally.

A key panel titled ‘Marine Conservation in the Arabian Region – Nurturing the Next Generation’ aimed to inspire young scientists towards careers in marine research. Dr. Giulia De Masi from SUAD joined experts from Khorfakkan University, Miral Experiences, and Yas SeaWorld Research Centre. They discussed creating educational pathways that empower students as future marine biologists and sustainability leaders.

In collaboration with the Archipel Pavilion of the ELYX Foundation, Dr. De Masi led a townhall on ‘Marine Biosystem Preservation: Challenges and Technological Pathways.’ This session examined UAE’s seagrass and coral reef ecosystems while introducing innovative restoration technologies. Experts from ELYX Foundation, Future Culture, Zayed University, UAE Dolphin Project, and M42 Health Environmental Sciences participated.

Dr. De Masi also participated in an interactive fishbowl session titled ‘Exploring Nature-Based Solutions at the Science – Policy Interface: Can Mangroves Be a Climate Saviour?’ alongside Dr. Beatriz Garcia from SUAD’s Department of Law, Economics and Management. This prestigious session was part of the IUCN Congress Main Programme after a competitive selection process.

The discussion focused on mangroves' role in carbon sequestration and their ecological links to open-sea systems. Governance challenges of managing shared coastal habitats were also addressed. Experts highlighted pioneering blue-carbon research from Abu Dhabi where SUAD's Ocean Institute advances conservation through science-policy integration.

Artistic Contributions

Adding creativity to its participation, SUAD presented SYMBIOSIS, an art exhibition by postgraduate student Miles Critchley-Hope pursuing a Master’s in Sustainable Environmental Engineering and Law. His photographic collages depicted culturally significant UAE species like the Arabian Oryx and Gyr Falcon using images of their natural surroundings to highlight environmental threats they face.

A team of SUAD student volunteers supported the IUCN Archipel Pavilion throughout the week by assisting with guest liaison, cultural mediation, and media coordination. This reflects SUAD’s emphasis on experiential learning and active participation in global sustainability efforts.

Professor Nathalie Martial-Braz, Chancellor of Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi stated: "The IUCN Congress was a global stage for knowledge-sharing and innovation." She added that SUAD’s involvement demonstrated their responsibility as an academic institution to shape a sustainable future for oceans through research, art, and student engagement.

The IUCN Congress is organised every four years by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). It is one of the world’s most influential environmental gatherings addressing biodiversity loss and climate change. Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi was honoured to contribute to this historic edition held in Abu Dhabi.

With inputs from WAM