MMSU opens global sustainability conference

Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) in Batac City, Ilocos Norte, opened the three-day 2026 International Sustainability Nexus Conference (ISNC2026) on 11 November, bringing together international researchers, industry experts, policymakers and development stakeholders to discuss strategies for advancing sustainability and decarbonization.

Held at the MMSU Center for Flexible Learning, the conference carries the theme “Accelerating Decarbonization Towards a Sustainable and Resilient Future.” Its plenary sessions and workshops focus on five areas: climate-smart and nature-based solutions; resilient health, education and biocultural systems; clean energy and engineering; carbon-neutrality policy and governance; and technologies for decarbonization.

The conference features Dr. Josefino Comiso, NASA senior research scientist emeritus at the agency's Goddard Space Flight Center, as keynote speaker.

Other speakers include researchers from the Asian Institute of Technology, Kyungpook National University and Begum Rokeya University, along with University of San Agustin researcher Dr. Jonel Saludes and Department of Agriculture Undersecretary for High Value Crops Cheryl Marie Caballero.

Industry representatives from BauerTek Farmaceutical Technologies, the U.S. Grains and BioProducts Council, Praj Far East Co. Ltd. and Lallemand Biofuels and Distilled Spirits are also participating.

Discussions cover the use of geospatial technology and artificial intelligence in climate adaptation, as well as waste conversion, carbon capture, sustainable food systems, pharmaceutical innovation, biofuel production and agricultural development.

MMSU President Virgilio Julius Manzano Jr. underscored the importance of cross-border partnerships among governments, research institutions and industries in addressing shared sustainability challenges.

The conference also provides participants an opportunity to submit research papers for possible publication in a special issue of the MMSU Science and Technology Journal, the conference proceedings and the International Journal of Geoinformatics. Publication will be subject to the respective outlets' requirements.

Quirino State University, Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College, Central Luzon State University, the University of Eastern Philippines, the Asian Institute of Technology and the Ethanol Producers Association of the Philippines (EPAP) co-convened the event.

Sponsors include EPAP, Katrin Field Inc., Rotary Club of Laoag Sunshine and Labtraders Inc.

EPAP Executive Director Engr. Queenie Rojo reaffirmed the association's commitment to collaborative efforts to advance sustainable energy sources.