AUW Hosts ICECA 2026 to Advance Women-Led Climate Action

The Asian University for Women (AUW) has commenced the second International Conference on Environment and Climate Action (ICECA 2026), bringing together researchers, policymakers, activists and environmental professionals from around the world to explore collaborative solutions to climate change. Held on 7–8 August at Sonapahar Farmhouse Resort in Chattogram, Bangladesh, the conference centres on the theme, "Commoning our futures with climate justice", highlighting the critical role of women in shaping sustainable and equitable environmental policies.

Key Highlights:

• AUW hosts ICECA 2026 in Chattogram with a focus on climate justice
• Global experts discuss women-led solutions, climate policy and sustainability
• The conference aims to strengthen collaboration ahead of COP31

Organised by AUW's Environmental Sciences Programme, ICECA 2026 aims to bridge scientific research, policy dialogue and grassroots action at a time when countries are preparing for discussions leading to COP31. The conference serves as a platform for exchanging knowledge on climate resilience, environmental justice and community-driven sustainability while encouraging greater participation of women in climate leadership.

The event opened with a keynote address by Dr Nancy Mock of Tulane University, who delivered a speech titled "Two Deltas, One Commons: Women's Leadership and the Future We Build Together." Her presentation focused on the importance of women-led initiatives in building resilient communities and addressing climate-related challenges across vulnerable regions.

A second keynote was delivered by M. Zakir Hossain Khan, Co-founder and Chief Executive of Change Initiative, who highlighted the need for natural rights-based governance, energy sovereignty and stronger community stewardship to achieve long-term environmental sustainability.

The conference programme features several plenary discussions involving experts from universities and research institutions across the United States, Türkiye, India, Thailand and Bangladesh. One of the major sessions, "Evidence-Based Climate Policy: A Vision for COP31," explores how scientific evidence can shape international climate negotiations and influence future policy frameworks. The discussion includes representatives from AUW, the European Union Delegation to Bangladesh, Bangladesh Agricultural University, and The Climate Watch.

Alongside the plenary sessions, participants are presenting research on a broad range of environmental issues, including climate risks, water insecurity, renewable energy, mangrove conservation, carbon storage, mental health, environmental inequality, and climate-induced displacement. Special attention is being given to the disproportionate impact of climate change on women and vulnerable communities, reinforcing the conference's commitment to climate justice.

A dedicated alumnae panel showcases graduates of AUW's Environmental Sciences Programme who are contributing to environmental conservation, climate advocacy and sustainability initiatives across Asia. The panel highlights the university's efforts to equip women with the knowledge and leadership skills needed to address pressing environmental challenges.

The conference also reflects AUW's broader commitment to sustainability through initiatives such as the Green Bangle Project, a student-led ecofeminist movement that promotes mangrove restoration, biodiversity conservation and livelihood opportunities for coastal women. These programmes align with the university's mission of empowering women from 18 Asian countries to become leaders in environmental science and climate action.

ICECA 2026 builds on the success of its inaugural edition held in 2025 and further strengthens AUW's position as a regional hub for climate research, policy dialogue and women's leadership. By bringing together academics, civil society organisations and policymakers, the conference aims to foster stronger international collaboration while generating practical solutions to environmental challenges.