Second Natural Hazards and Climate Change Conference brings global experts to Szeged
More than 150 scientists from four continents gathered at the University of Szeged for the second Natural Hazards and Climate Change Conference, held May 21 – 23. The event brought together researchers from fields ranging from hydrology and geography to public health and artificial intelligence to explore solutions to growing environmental threats.
Organized by the university’s Institute of Geosciences, the conference focused on extreme weather, water scarcity, invasive species, and other hazards intensified by climate change.
“The conference – much like the one held two years ago – placed strong emphasis on hydrology-related natural hazards, particularly the issues of drought and flooding,” said Dr. György Sipos, head of the Department of Physical and Environmental Geography and the event’s lead organizer. “It brought together regional and international expertise in monitoring, modeling, and forecasting, supporting joint action in water science and management.”
Workshops on the second day covered topics such as hydrological modeling, public health, AI applications, and micro- and nanoplastics. The sessions also showcased international research projects led by Szeged-based teams, including efforts to understand the spread and environmental impact of nanoplastics and manage water in the Tisza River basin.
A full-day field excursion wrapped up the event, giving participants a close-up look at key hazards in the Southern Great Plain – from drought in the Homokhátság area to invasive plant species and flooding along the Tisza River.
Organizers said the conference successfully fostered interdisciplinary collaboration and laid the groundwork for future research partnerships. Plans are already in motion to host the event again in 2027.
Source: University of Szeged
Featured image: University of Szeged / Ádám Kovács-Jerney
