We ask presenters in this focus area to share knowledge, best practices, and strategies for mitigating and adapting to the effects of climate change and the environment. Proposals can discuss any or all aspects of climate change and the environment, from local to global perspectives.

Key topics of discussion in this focus area could include:

• The ethical and social components of climate change, such as the responsibilities of individuals, governments, and corporations in addressing the crisis, and the need to engage with and empower communities that are most affected by its effects.
• Strategies for communication and public engagement, in order to raise awareness about the urgency of the climate crisis and to mobilize action at the local, national, and international levels.
• The role of technology and innovation in addressing climate change and environmental issues.
• The impact of climate change and environmental degradation on vulnerable populations, including indigenous communities, women, and children.
• Strategies for enhancing resilience and adaptation to the impacts of climate change.
• Climate change and environmental justice: equity, inclusion, and human rights.
• Best practices for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, increasing the use of renewable energy sources, and promoting sustainable land-use practices.

To create a more just and equal world, it is essential that we confront and dismantle the social and cultural barriers that perpetuate poverty, inequality, and marginalization in different parts of the world. Social justice refers to the fair distribution of resources and opportunities in society, whereas prejudice refers to preconceived notions and biases that people hold about individuals or groups based on their identity, such as race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, or religion.

Through education, advocacy, and collective action, we can work towards breaking down barriers and building a more just and equitable world for all.

Key topics of discussion in this focus area could include:

• Addressing systemic barriers that prevent marginalized groups from fully participating in society, such as unequal access to education, employment, and healthcare.
• Exploring how to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and challenge harmful stereotypes and prejudices that hinder progress towards a more just and equal world.
• Raising awareness of the ways in which prejudice and discrimination manifest in different contexts around the world, including racism, sexism, homophobia, antisemitism, and ableism; identifying effective strategies for countering these harmful attitudes and behaviors.
• Examining unconscious bias, hate speech, and stereotypes, and explore ways to promote understanding and empathy between different cultural and ethnic groups.
• Advocating for policies and practices that protect the rights of marginalized groups, such as refugees, immigrants, and religious minorities.
• Bringing awareness to human rights abuses in different parts of the world and developing strategies for addressing these abuses through international cooperation and diplomacy.
• Assessing how social justice and prejudice intersect with other forms of oppression, including gender, sexuality, and disability.
• Emerging issues in social justice and prejudice, including the impact of technology on discrimination and the rise of populism and xenophobia.

The interconnectedness of health and education is well-established. When individuals are healthy, they are better able to learn and when they are well-educated, they are better equipped to maintain good health. Yet, globally, many people still lack access to quality health care and education. How can we help bridge the gap in health and education disparities and improve the well-being of individuals and communities worldwide?

Key topics of discussion in this focus area could include:

• Challenges and opportunities for improving access to quality health care, regardless of socioeconomic status or geographic location.
• Pathways to increase access to quality education, including marginalized populations such as girls, refugees, and those living in conflict-affected areas.
• Innovative approaches to healthcare delivery, including telemedicine, community-based healthcare, and integrated healthcare systems.
• The intersectionality of health and education and the ways in which improvements in one area can positively impact the other.
• The role of education in promoting health and wellness.
• Best practices for improving educational outcomes in developing countries.
• The impact of technology on health and education in the developing world.

Food and water insecurity continues to be a major issue affecting millions of people globally. Presenters may share their insights and experiences on various topics related to food and water insecurity.

Key topics of discussion in this focus area could include:

• Understanding the causes and impacts of food and water insecurity.
• The intersection of food and water security with climate change, health, and economic development.
• The role of policy and governance in promoting food and water security.
• Agricultural practices and sustainable food production.
• Food waste reduction and recovery, and access to safe water.
• Gender, nutrition, and health disparities.
• Humanitarian aid and emergency response.
• Indigenous and traditional knowledge and practices for food & water security.