Last week, we had the incredible opportunity to attend the International Institute for Environmental Studies (IIES) Science and Policy workshop, hosted this year in Johannesburg, South Africa. It was an inspiring week filled with knowledge exchange, meaningful conversations, and collaborative thinking around global environmental challenges.
During the workshop, Larissa presented our ongoing Haliburton Research Project, while Ian shared insights into enhanced rock weathering (ERW) and CO₂ mineralization of kimberlite residues. Throughout the event, we heard a wide range of fascinating research from around the globe, including work from Walter Sisulu University, Leiden University, the University of Edinburgh, Hong Kong University, and the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits).
A highlight of the event was a special panel session on Transboundary Water Issues and Peacebuilding, which explored how collaborative water governance can promote regional stability and resilience.
Following the workshop, we spent three enriching days at the Wits Rural Campus in Acornhoek for the IIES Graduate Forum. The central theme was improving water security, especially in vulnerable regions. During two intensive “Codesign Sessions,” Larissa worked closely with fellow graduate researchers to create a collective water stewardship framework, which we then presented to our peers.
This experience was both eye-opening and energizing. The chance to collaborate with researchers from around the world and dive deep into community-centered solutions made the forum especially impactful. We left South Africa with fresh perspectives, new connections, and a deeper commitment to tackling environmental challenges through both science and collective action.
