Programme

1. Please register using the registration link.
2. Light refreshments will be served before the workshop.
3. Workshop commences at 4pm.

Speaker:

Professor Helen Nguyen

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Abstract

Warmer temperatures and higher humidity accelerate bacterial growth and gene transfer vertically and horizontally among bacteria. Flood water can spread fertilizer (natural, like manure or synthetic) widely, allowing higher bacterial growth. Drought may worsen access to clean water and adequate sanitation, leading to higher exposure by humans to pathogens. At the same time, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a “silent pandemic” that poses a global threat to human and animal health, as well as threats to food safety and security, crop-based fuel production, and the environment. The emergence of resistance is accelerated by the widespread overuse of antibiotics in clinical and especially agricultural settings in many countries worldwide. These two crises are in a collision course and requires a GeoHealth solution. Currently, the emergence of resistance is almost exclusively monitored in acute hospital settings and misses the long-term and invisible evolution and spread of antibiotic resistance in the environment.

I will present recent research on using environmental surveillance to study the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. We used a combination of quantitative gene tracking and high-fidelity whole genome sequencing to understand the prevalence of Salmonella enterica and associated ARG in flood water samples collected near pig farms right after Hurricane Florence in 2018. We also set up a year-long surveillance of wastewater from a pork processing facility and the nearby communities. We found shared genetic similarities of E. coli isolates from the pork plant and Salmonella, Shigella, and Klebsiella isolated from human samples from other countries, suggesting potential horizontal gene transfer among bacteria species. We also use CRISPR combined with next generation sequencing to overcome the challenge of missing ARG in complex environmental samples. This method allows us to identify a higher number of ARG with clinical importance compared to regular next generation sequencing.

Speaker:

Mr. Jair Smits

Witteveen+Bos South-East Asia

Abstract

In the realm of coastal and flood protection, traditional approaches have predominantly relied on engineered solutions, such as levees and seawalls, to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events. However, the increasing intensity of rainfall and rising sea levels due to climate change have underscored the limitations of these purely engineering-based methods. As a result, there is a growing recognition of the need for more integrated strategies that incorporate natural processes into coastal management.

Building with Nature is an approach that emphasizing the importance of working with natural systems rather than attempting to control them. Pilots and initiatives implementing this approach have been conducted in the Netherlands and across the globe, providing valuable insights into how to effectively integrate nature-based solutions into existing frameworks. These pilots demonstrate that while nature is inherently less predictable than engineered systems, it offers significant potential for enhancing resilience when approached thoughtfully.

To harness this potential, continuous experimentation and monitoring are essential. Embracing the principles of Building with Nature represents a critical step toward sustainable coastal management that recognizes nature as an ally in addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by climate change.

Speaker:

Professor Karina Gin

National University of Singapore

Abstract

Understanding the intricate interactions within coastal ecosystems is paramount for the success of nature-based solutions in mitigating sea-level rise. While mangroves and seagrass play a pivotal role in coastal resilience, they often face competition from fast-growing algae for essential nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus. Algae can outcompete these vital plants, hindering their growth and effectiveness. Moreover, some algae can produce toxins that are detrimental to the overall health of the ecosystem. To enhance the efficacy of these solutions, it is essential to implement strategies for nutrient management, conduct regular monitoring and research, develop plans to address algal blooms, and prioritize restoration efforts that consider nutrient dynamics and potential algal interactions. By taking a holistic approach to coastal management, we can safeguard these vital ecosystems and their capacity to withstand sea-level rise along with other factors of climate change.

Our project focuses on developing better ways to protect coastlines and marine environments from climate change and human activities. We are particularly interested in 'hybrid solutions,' which blend natural elements like seagrass and mangroves with man-made structures. A key part of our research is determining the right mix of these natural ('green') and artificial ('gray') components for effective coastal protection. Our goal is to understand how seagrass, mangroves, algae, environmental factors and man-made structures interact. We will use the insights from these studies to build the Integrated Coastal Ecosystem Model (ICEM). Through ICEM, we aim to test and refine these hybrid approaches to coastal protection. Ultimately, our research will guide us in creating effective, sustainable coastal protection strategies that are well-suited to the challenges posed by a changing climate and human impacts.