The 12th World Sustainability Forum
The 12th World Sustainability Forum
Innovative Pathways for Sustainable, Resilient Cities and a Greener Planet
Part of the World Sustainability Forum series
1 May 2026
1 June 2026
10 July 2026
30 June 2026
20 August 2026
Circular Economy, Climate Adaptation, Smart Cities, Urban Resilience, Renewable Energy, Zero-waste Strategy, Sustainable Tourism, Sustainable Education, Water Resource Management
Abstract Submissions and Registrations are now open for the 12th World Sustainability Forum (WSF-12), which is happening from 21 to 24 August 2026, in Hong Kong, China!
Instructions for authors are available online.
Submit Your Asbtract HERE
Share about the opportunities at WSF-12
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Welcome from the Chairs
Building on the success of previous editions, we are delighted to announce that the 12th World Sustainability Forum (WSF-12) will be held in Hong Kong from 21–24 August 2026. In a time of rapid climate change, increasingly frequent extreme weather events, and growing resource constraints, the need for integrated, scalable solutions has never been greater.
WSF-12 will bring together global leaders, researchers and innovators to bridge science, policy, and society, fostering integrated solutions and collaborative partnerships that accelerate the transition from vision to action for a resilient and sustainable future. The forum will highlight the critical role of innovation and cross-sector partnerships in accelerating this transition.
This year’s forum will focus on seven key themes:
• Smart and Inclusive Urban Planning, and the Urban Sustainability Nexus (refers to the intersection of urban planning, resource management, and social well-being);
• The Circular Economy–Resource Efficiency Nexus;
• Waste Management, Renewable Energy Integration and Grid Modernization;
• Climate Adaptation and Ecological Conservation;
• Sustainable Transportation and Low-Carbon Mobility;
• Policy Frameworks for Equitable Green Transitions;
• Tourism, Culture, Heritage and Hospitality.
WSF-12 aims to bridge scientific research, societal needs, and policy implementation. We especially encourage contributions that integrate technological advancements with socio-economic perspectives to address the complex challenges of sustainability in a changing world.
We look forward to welcoming you to Hong Kong in 2026 to share your expertise, explore new collaborations, and contribute to a sustainable future.
Conference Chairs
Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong, China
Event Chairs
Prof. Lu joined the Hong Kong Polytechnic University as an assistant professor in 2006 after working for Parsons Brinckerhoff (Asia) Ltd for 2 years, and was promoted to Professor in July 2018. As a highly cited researcher by Clarivate Analytics in Engineering and a World’s Top 2% Scientist by Stanford University in Energy, Prof. Lu is a well established researcher in renewable energy and building energy engineering.
Prof. Lu has published 6 books/handbook chapters and over 350 SCI-cited journal papers (including Nature Communications, Advanced Materials, etc.), and her work has been financially supported by the Research Grant Council (RGC) of Hong Kong (GRF, NFSC/RGC JRS, CRF(Co-PI), HKPDF), Hong Kong Innovation and Technology Commission (ITF), Hong Kong Environmental Protection Department (ECF), Hong Kong Policy Innovation and Coordination Office (PPR), Hong Kong Construction Industry Institute (CII), Dept of Science and Technology of Guangdong Province, the Society of Hong Kong Scholars and the China National Postdoctoral Council (Hong Kong Scholars), Hong Kong Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) and various industry partners including Sinopec.
Prof. Lu has received several prestigious awards, primarily as the first awardee, and is the founder of two spin-out startups. Currently, she is serving local government as The Project Management Committee (PMC) for Cleaner Production Partnership Programme, Task Force Member for Energy Management System Certification under Hong Kong Accreditation Service (HKAS) and as Working Group Member for Building Energy Codes (Electrical; Energy Audit; Lighting) under Buildings Energy Efficiency Ordinance.
Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
Weiqi Zhou received his B.Sc. degree in environmental sciences from Peking University, Beijing, in 2001; his M.Sc. degree in cartography and geographic information systems from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, in 2004; and his Ph.D. degree in natural resources from the University of Vermont, Burlington. He is currently working at the State Key Laboratory of Urban and Regional Ecology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences as a research professor. He is experienced in urban landscape dynamic analysis using geographic information system and remote sensing technologies, especially with high spatial resolution remote sensing images.
Florida State University, Tallahassee, USA
Mark A. Bonn, Ph.D., is known internationally as one of the most renowned hospitality and tourism researchers, having published well over 125 scientific, scholarly academic journal articles. For over three decades, Dr. Bonn was a faculty member at Florida State University's Dedman School of Hospitality & Tourism Management, where he held the title of the Robert H. Dedman Professor of Services Management.
Dr. Bonn established and directed Florida State University’s International Center for Hospitality Research & Development. As director, he produced over 500 technical reports and generated nearly $2.5 million in funded contracts and grants. Dr. Bonn developed the Dedman School’s highly successful on-line program in Beverage Management and also founded the Resort & Vacation Rental Management program.
Dr. Bonn is currently serving a Section Editor-in-Chief for the academic journal, Sustainability: Tourism, Culture and Heritage. He also has served as an associate editor for the Cornell Hospitality Quarterly, and as a member of numerous editorial boards for leading hospitality and tourism journals.
Dr. Bonn earned his doctorate at Texas A&M University, majoring in resource development with supporting areas of study in organizational behavior, attitude theory and measurement and demographics. His research focuses on hospitality and tourism sustainability, visitor perceptions, satisfaction, revisit intentions, resource quality, supply chain management, strategic market segmentation, and consumer behavior.
In 2008, Dr. Bonn was inducted into the Florida Tourism Hall of Fame by the Florida Commission on Tourism. He is the only academic researcher to have ever received this honor.
Honorary Chair
Prof. Dr. Max Bergman
University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
Prof. Manfred Max Bergman is Chair of Social Research and Methodology and Director of the Social Transitions Research Group at the University of Basel, member of the Research Council of the Swiss National Science Foundation, the Uganda National Academy of Sciences, and the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), a global initiative for the United Nations. He is President of the Swiss Academic Society for Environmental Research and Ecology and Editor in Chief of World. He has been chairing the World Sustainability Forum and the Basel Sustainability Forum since 2014. He currently collaborates with the Mixed Methods Program at the University of Michigan, and his substantive research is on sustainability and the business-society nexus in North America and Asia.
Plenary Speakers
Prof. Zongping Shao
Western Australia School of Mines, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
2026 WSA Winner, find more information here: https://mdpi-foundation.org/award
Assoc.Prof. Katrina Knauer
University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, USA
2026 ESLA Winner, find more information here: https://mdpi-foundation.org/emerging-award
Sessions Chairs (Continuously Updated)
S1. Emerging Technologies and Integrated Solutions for Sustainable, Resilient Cities and Planet
Session Chairs
The human history has validated that while technologies playing an increasingly important role in shaping and reshaping the development of human society, its associated creative destruction impact brought also many challenges to human society. Therefore, how to seek for an integrated solution to maximize the positive effects of new technologies while to minimize their negative ones has always been the hot topic for exploration. The objective of this session is to dive in and digest the emerging cutting-edge technologies and their ground applications in real society, any challenges faced in the application, and any good practices in the application process so that we may harvest the promising solutions for sustainable, resilient cities and planet through the decent debates and fruitful discussions in this session.
Both theoretical advances and practical case studies at local, regional, and global scales are invited. Please note that literature reviews will not be accepted. 
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S2. Resilient Urban Energy Infrastructure
Session Chairs
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S3. Sustainability Education and Innovative Approaches
Session Chairs
The “Sustainability Education and Innovative Approaches” session explores how education can cultivate the knowledge, skills, and values essential for addressing complex sustainability challenges. It invites contributions on pedagogical strategies, curriculum design, and innovative teaching practices that integrate sustainability principles across disciplines. Emphasis is placed on transformative, inclusive, and action-oriented approaches that empower learners, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and support just transitions toward resilient societies. The session highlights evidence-based initiatives and theoretical perspectives that advance sustainability education and promote systemic change in educational ecosystems.
Types of abstracts welcome:
- Empirical or conceptual studies on sustainability education across formal, non-formal, and informal contexts
- Innovative pedagogical models, curriculum design, and assessment aligned with Education for Sustainable Development (ESD)
- Interdisciplinary, technology-enhanced, community-engaged, or policy-informed approaches
- Evidence-based practices demonstrating impact on learners, institutions, or communities
Abstracts likely outside the session scope:
- Technical sustainability research without an explicit educational dimension
- Purely environmental or engineering studies lacking pedagogical focus
- Opinion pieces without clear theoretical grounding or empirical support
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S4. Climate Change and Socio-Ecological Systems
Session Chairs
Invited Speakers
Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
Prof. Li Jiang, Ph.D., is a Professor and Doctoral Supervisor at the College of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Guizhou University, China. He received his Ph.D. degree from Chongqing University and conducted part of his doctoral research at Delft University of Technology, Delft, the Netherlands. His research focuses on water pollution control and resource recovery, solid waste treatment and recycling, and the control of emerging pollutants. He has led several competitive research projects, including grants funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, and has extensive experience in research and teaching in the fields of water environmental management and pollution control engineering.
Institute of Geographic Science and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
Chunsheng Wu earned his Ph.D. in Cartography and Geographical Information Systems in 2017 from the State Key Laboratory of Resources and Environmental Information System, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China. His doctoral research focused on applying GIS and remote sensing to ecological studies. In recent years, he has been dedicated to investigating the interactions between land use and ecosystem services. By refining and innovating ecological modeling processes, he has examined the mechanisms behind land use change and analyzed the spatio-temporal variations in ecosystem services, highlighting the influential roles of both natural and human factors. Grounded in social-ecosystem theory, his work further explores the practical implications of the land use–ecosystem service relationship. At this conference, he will present his findings on the interplay between human activities and ecosystem services on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.
Event Scientific Committee
Manuela Almeida (f) is a Full Professor in Civil Engineering at the University of Minho (UMinho) in Portugal. She has a PhD in Mechanical Engineering since 1995, an MSc in Thermal Engineering and a degree in Civil Engineering. At UMinho, she created and developed a research line focused on innovative, sustainable construction products and solutions for zero-energy, zero-emissions buildings and neighborhoods. She coordinates and participates in several national and international research projects whose results have contributed to the development of national and European standards for building thermal performance.
Professor Ali Bahadori-Jahromi is Head of Civil Engineering and Doctoral Lead for Engineering at the University of West London, UK. He leads the Building Performance and Climate Change Research Group, focusing on sustainable construction, building energy performance, low-carbon materials, and the application of artificial intelligence in the built environment. His work involves research supervision, programme leadership, and collaboration with industry and professional bodies to support improved environmental performance and resilience in buildings and infrastructure.
University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Chattanooga, United States
Prof. Jianheng Chen is a Professor at China University of Petroleum (East China). He earned his Ph.D. from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University in 2021, followed by postdoctoral research at both The Hong Kong Polytechnic University and City University of Hong Kong. His research primarily centers on radiative sky cooling technologies and low-energy technologies in support of carbon neutrality. He has published over 40 SCI-indexed journal papers and received several prestigious honors, including the ASET International Best Paper Award, ESI Highly Cited Paper Award and World's Top 2% Scientists.
David Pastor-Escuredo is a Ph.D. from UPM in Artificial Intelligence and Complex Systems working with CNRS and UCSD. He did his postdoc at CNRS. He was a data-driven sustainability pioneer working with several United Nations agencies and BID. He has worked as advisor of UN Global Pulse Jakarta and also as lead data scientist for UNICEF and UNHCR. He led the digital innovation ecosystem at UPM for itdUPM working with Climate-KIC and MIT. Currently, he leads Digital Innovation and AI projects at UCL and UPM. He is an expert of the ITU’s Early Warning for All and U4SSC initiatives. Also, he is a fellow of the EIT Health of the Catalyst Europe and SCIFI programmes. He owns LifeD Lab where he designs innovations for a sustainable future. He is also a fellow of the CEO Academy of UCAM HiTech.
Alan Fyall, Ph.D., is Associate Dean Academic Affairs and Visit Orlando Endowed Chair of Tourism Marketing at the UCF Rosen College of Hospitality Management. His research focuses on destination planning, sustainability and resilience, travel accessibility, and the impacts of tourism on resident communities. He is a Board Member of TravelAbility, has conducted tourism projects in many parts of the world, and recently co-organized the inaugural International Conference on Destinations, Events & Sport in Sapporo, Japan. Alan is co-founding editor of Elsevier’s Journal of Destination Marketing & Management and regularly contributes to the media including New York Times and Washington Post.
Michele Grimaldi is an Associate Professor in Urban Planning at the Department of Civil Engineering of the University of Salerno. He teaches courses on Urban and Territorial Systems Analysis and Spatial Planning. He is a member of the scientific board of C.U.G.RI - interUniversity Centre for the Prediction and Prevention of Major Hazards. He is the Secretary of the Campania section -National Institute of Urban Planning (INU) He is Vice President of the scientific board of ASITA - Federation of Scientific Associations for Territorial and Environmental Information.
Radu Godina is currently an Assistant Professor at the NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA FCT, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa. He received the Ph.D. degree from University of Beira Interior (UBI), Covilhã, Portugal. Radu Godina is on the Board of Directors of the Research and Development Unit in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering (UNIDEMI), which is part of Associated Laboratory of Intelligent Systems (LASI), located in Guimarães, Portugal. He has authored or co-authored more than 190 indexed international journals, book chapters and conference proceedings papers in such topics as industrial symbiosis, sustainability, lean manufacturing, electric vehicles, circular economy, life cycle assessment and quality control. He has published with 40 international universities and 16 distinct enterprises and/or corporations. He is a full member of the EurOMA (European Operations Management Association) and full member of the IEOM Society International Association (Industrial Engineering and Operations Management Society - IEOM). He recently developed research in the project Microstructural Engineering and Integrated Non-Destructive Testing - Smart-WAAM obtained through European Institute of Innovation & Technology (EIT) RawMaterials, and in this task the goal is to detail rigorously and perform the life cycle analysis, life cycle cost and social life cycle analysis of the additive manufacturing process, namely Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM). Radu Godina was the the coordinator at UNIDEMI of the project M4ML - Mobility for Maritime Logistics: M4ML, which is part of the Blue Growth Program that is funded by the EEA Grants Portugal and the Portuguese State.
Akhtar Hussain is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Université Laval and a member of the LEEPCI research laboratory. He is a Senior Member of IEEE. His research focuses on microgrids, distributed energy resources, electric vehicle integration, and advanced control of power systems, with an emphasis on optimization, resilience, and AI-driven energy management. His work addresses the planning, operation, and coordination of modern power systems under high renewable penetration, bridging theory and real-world applications in smart and sustainable energy systems.
I am a Chemical Engineer with a PhD in Industrial Engineering and Production, specifically on membrane engineering. I am specialised in environmental engineering, focusing particularly on circular economy and tertiary and quaternary treatments, such as advanced oxidation processes and membrane separation technologies. I have also worked as a water consultant for over eight years. I have over 15 years' experience working on R&D&I projects related to the circular economy in both the public and private sectors, including in the agri-food, textile, cosmetics and chemical industries, being actively involved in several EU projects, including INNO4CFIs, MIXMATTERS, TOBEREAL and CHEERS.
Dr. Antonio J. Jara is Chief Scientific Officer at Libelium, leading R&D and innovation in AI-enabled smart city platforms, IoT, data spaces, and digital twins with a strong focus on sustainability and climate resilience. He is Technical Director of the European Commission’s Local Digital Twin Toolbox initiative and chairs the IEEE P2510 standard on data quality. He has coordinated and contributed to international projects addressing urban heat islands, flooding risk, environmental health, and citizen-oriented impact assessment, integrating satellite-based high-value datasets with in-situ sensing and interoperable data governance frameworks (FIWARE, GAIA-X, ETSI).
Prof. Hao Chiang Koong Lin is a Professor of the Department of Information & Learning Technology at National University of Tainan, Taiwan. His research spans artificial intelligence in education, affective computing, extended reality, interactive multimedia, digital art, and personalized learning. He has led numerous funded projects and published extensively in international journals and conferences, with a strong focus on integrating technology, creativity, and pedagogy. He also serves in academic and professional roles supporting digital learning evaluation and innovation, and his interdisciplinary works have been showcased in major digital art exhibitions.
Fernando Moreira is Full Professor of Computer Science at Portucalense University, where he founded and led the Science and Technology Department (2018–2022) and created its first engineering degrees. He holds a PhD and Habilitation in Electronic Engineering from the University of Porto. He has authored over 300 Scopus-indexed publications and serves on editorial boards and as guest editor of multiple JCR journal special issues. He regularly acts as conference chair, keynote speaker and PC member. His main research interests are mobile computing, generative AI in higher education, machine learning and digital transformation. He received the Atlas Elsevier Award in 2019
Olusola (Shola) Ololade, Ph.D. is a Research Fellow at the Centre for Environmental Management, University of the Free State, South Africa, where she previously served as Acting Director and Associate Professor. Her expertise includes land-use and land-cover analysis, integrated water resources management, the water–energy–food nexus, mining and sustainability, Climate change and mitigation, and sustainable development. She has published over 70 peer-reviewed articles and supervised 37 graduate students.
Dr Flavio Pileggi is a Senior Lecturer in Computer Science at the Faculty of Engineering and IT, University of Technology Sydney, Australia. His expertise lies in Knowledge Engineering and ontology-based systems, with current research focusing on human-centric socio-technical systems, sustainability, and climate change. He has published over 50 papers in leading journals and conferences, contributed to more than 10 funded research projects, and serves on the editorial boards of several international journals.
Profile: https://profiles.uts.edu.au/SalvatoreFlavio.Pileggi
Prince of Songkla University, Phuket City, Thailand
Graduated in Environmental Engineering in 2002. Since 2005 she got three PhD titles, in Environmental Engineering, Energy Engineering and Engineering and Management. Since 2023, she got the Italian National Qualification to function as Full Professor. Member of tens of scientific committees of international conferences, she is Author of co-Author of more than 250 articles in conferences and journals indexed in the SCOPUS® database, Hindex=41. Editor of many Special Issues on International Journals. Presently she is Associate Professor in the University of Insubria, Italy. Ranked in the top 2% scientists list of the World Ranking published by Stanford University. In 2016, she received the Eminent Scientist Medal from the Wessex Institute of Technology.
Wenjie Ren, Ph.D., Associate Professor. His research focuses on soil organic pollution and bioremediation, and ecological effect of emerging contaminants in soil. He has authored 103 academic papers, including 73 in peer-reviewed SCI journals, with an H-index of 32 (Google Scholar). He holds 13 authorized invention patents, including 2 international patents. Besides, he has co-authored 4 academic books, contributing 2 chapters to English monographs, and led the development of 1 national standard as the second contributor. In addition to his research, Dr. Ren serves as an Associate Editor for the Frontiers in Microbiology and an Editor of Sustainability.
Paulo Santos, Associate Professor in Dep. of Civil Eng. of University of Coimbra (PT) and integrated member of ISISE research centre. The main actual research topics are Thermal Behaviour, Energy Efficiency in Buildings, Circular Economy and Sustainable Construction, with focus on the Lightweight Steel-Framed (LSF) construction system and sustainable construction materials. As a result of his research work he is (co)author of 230 scientific publications, having 3,700 citations and 93,000 reads on Research Gate (Berlin), with an h-index of 29. Member of the Editorial Board of 25 international scientific journals, for which he already has 880 verified Web of Science editor records and 131 peer reviews.
Central Mining Institute- National Research Institute (GIG-NRI), Katowice, Poland
Professor Adam Smoliński, PhD, Eng. received his education in chemistry and geoengineering from the University of Silesia in Katowice and the Silesian University of Technology in Gliwice, Poland, and completed postgraduate studies in environmental protection management at AGH University of Science and Technology. He undertook a postdoctoral fellowship at Southern Illinois University, USA. He is currently Scientific Secretary (Deputy Director for R&D) at the Central Mining Institute – National Research Institute, and a lecturer at the University of Economics in Katowice. He is also a professor at Nasarawa University, Nigeria, and a visiting professor at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China. His research focuses on clean fuel processing technologies, including solid fuel gasification and co-gasification for hydrogen production, carbon dioxide sequestration and utilisation, and the application of sorbents and catalysts. He has authored over 250 JCR-indexed publications (h-index: 35, Scopus) and is Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Sustainable Mining. He has received numerous awards and has been listed among Stanford–Elsevier’s Top 2% Scientists since 2019.
Professor Ercan Sirakaya Turk is a leading scholar in tourism studies, with over 15,000 citations, ranking him in the top 4% globally. A Fulbright alumnus, he is ranked USC’s No. 1 marketing professor by the AD Scientific Index and currently serves as interim Faculty Research Director and Associate Dean of Research at USC’s College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management. His research focuses on tourism destination marketing and sustainable development, with publications in top journals such as Annals of Tourism Research and Journal of Travel Research.
Dr. Huachao Yang is an Assistant Professor in College of Energy Engineering at Zhejiang University. He received his Ph.D. degree from Zhejiang University in 2018. During Ph.D. studies, he was a joint Ph.D. student at RWTH Aachen University. He was a Postdoctoral Associate at Zhejiang University from 2018 to 2021. His research focuses on the electrochemical energy storage devices (e.g., ion batteries and capacitors), seawater desalination (CDI and solar-thermal desalination) and recycling of spent lithium batteries.
Jin YANG, PhD, Professor. Selected as a high-level young talent in Hubei Province. Mainly engaged in the application of high performance and high value utilization technology of solid waste. Hosted more than 10 government sponsored projects such as the National Key Research and Development Program and the National Natural Science Foundation of China. H-index 39. More than 120 papers have been published in Cement and Concrete Research, Composites Part B, Chemical Engineering Journal, etc., total citations of more than 4900, selected as 5 ESI highly cited papers. Received 20 authorized Chinese invention patents and 3 US patents. Since 2024, he has been consecutively included in Stanford University's Annual List of the World's Top 2% Scientists
Sessions
S2. Resilient Urban Energy Infrastructure
S3. Sustainability Education and Innovative Approaches
S4. Climate Change and Socio-Ecological Systems
S5. Sustainable Urban Landscapes and Low-Carbon Mobility
S6. Circular Economy and Resource Efficiency
S7. Renewable Energy and Smart Grids
S8. Policy Frameworks for Equitable Green Transitions
S9. Sustainable Economic Models and Green Finance
S10. Tourism, Culture, Heritage and Hospitality: Global Strategies for a Sustainable Future
S11. Inclusive Strategies for Water Quality Improvement, Ecological Restoration and Water Resource Management
2026 MDPI Sustainability Foundation Award Winners
2026 MDPI Sustainability Foundation Award Winners
Curtin University, Perth, Australia
University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, USA
The awards ceremony will take place at WSF-12, 21–24 August 2026, Hong Kong.
Instructions for Authors
●The accepted abstracts will be available online on Sciforum.net during and after the conference.
●Please note that abstract submission and conference registration are two separate processes. Please use the same email address during registration and when submitting your work.
What are the benefits in getting your abstract accepted at the WSF2026?
● You get to present and discuss your latest findings with your peers.
● You get to network and exchange ideas and resources with like-minded researchers.
●Your research might be highlighted in an MDPI announcement and social media post. You will be mentioned in the News section of MDPI.com, as well as in one of the MDPI Sustainability Foundation Social Media Posts.
Submit your research
Create an account on Sciforum if you do not have one, then click on ‘New Submission’ here or by clicking on ‘Submit Abstract’ at the top of this webpage. Indicate what thematic area is best suited for your research.
● Submit an abstract in English (200-300 words). The deadline to submit your abstract is 1 May 2026
● The structured abstract should include the identification of the research gap based on prior research, the aim of
the paper, introduction, methods, results, and conclusion sections of about 200–300 words in length
● Upon submission, you can select if you wish to be considered for an oral presentation or a poster presentation
● Following assessment by the Selection Committee and the Chairs, you will be notified by 1 June 2026 in a separate email whether your contribution has been accepted for oral presentation
● Please note that, in order to finalize the scientific program in due time, at least one registration by any of the authors, denoted as Covering Author, is required to cover the presentation and publication of any accepted abstract. Covering Author registration deadline is 22 June 2026. Your abstract will be withdrawn if your registration is not complete by this date.
Oral Presentations
● Oral Presentations will be given in person. If a selected speaker cannot attend in person to give their oral presentation, they forfeit their right to present.
● All presentations must be sent to the Conference Organizers before the day of their presentation.
Poster Presentations
● Each presenter will be provided with a vertical poster board and posters can be displayed in the venue near the meeting hall. A plan of the poster session will be circulated later on.
● Maximum poster size is limited to: 90 ×140cm / 35 x 55 in (width x height) in the vertical orientation (portrait).
● You can use our free template to create your poster. The poster template can be downloaded HERE.
Publication Opportunities
1. Sustainability Journal Publication
Participants in this conference are cordially invited to contribute a full manuscript to the conference's Special Issue (to be updated), published in the Sustainability ( ISSN 2071-1050, IF 3.3, Citescore 7.74) with a 20% discount on the publication fee. Please note, if you have IOAP/association discounts, conference discounts will be combined with IOAP/association discounts. Conference discounts cannot be combined with reviewer vouchers. All submitted papers will undergo MDPI’s standard peer-review procedure. The abstracts should be cited and noted on the first page of the paper.
Authors of accepted abstracts are highly encouraged to submit an extended proceedings paper (ideally 4–8 pages in length) for the conference's dedicated proceedings volume in the Proceedings ( ISSN 2504-39000 journal . Publication of the proceedings will be free of charge.
Please submit it after the conference. Proceedings paper submission deadline: 9 October 2026 (45 days after the conference)
Please click HERE to submit your proceeding paper to the Proceedings , and be sure to disclose the conference information in your cover letter or mention the conference name in your submission.
Publication Notice: Proceedings papers will undergo peer-review procedure. Acceptance at the conference does not ensure final publication.
WSF-12_proceeding_paper-template.dot
Registration
Important Information
|
Early Bird Until 10 July 2026 |
Regular Until 20 August 2026 |
Supported documents | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Academic | 459.00 EUR | 499.00 EUR | |
| Invited Speakers/EB/GE/Committee/Society member | 409.00 EUR | 449.00 EUR | |
| Students from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) | 209.00 EUR | 249.00 EUR |
PolyU Student ID |
| Student | 309.00 EUR | 349.00 EUR |
Student ID |
| Non-Academic | 609.00 EUR | 659.00 EUR |
Cancellation policy
Cancellation of paid registration is possible under the terms listed below:
|
> 2 months before the conference |
Full refund but CHF 50 are retained for administration |
|
> 1 month before the conference |
Refund 50% of the applying fees |
|
> 2 weeks before the conference |
Refund 25% of the applying fees |
|
< 2 weeks before the conference |
No refund |
Disclaimer
In the unlikely event that WSF-12 Conference Secretariat shall deem it necessary to cancel the conference, all pre-paid registration fees will be reimbursed. WSF-12 Conference Secretariat shall not be liable for reimbursing the cost of travel or accommodation arrangements made by individual delegates.
The statements, opinions, and data presented in this conference or on this website are solely those of the individual participant(s) and contributor(s) and not of MDPI. MDPI disclaim responsibility for any injury to people or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions or products referred to in the content.
Photographs and/or video will be taken during the conference
By taking part in this event, you grant the event organizers full rights to use the images resulting from the photography/video filming, and any reproductions or adaptations of the images for fundraising, publicity or other purposes to help achieve the conference’s aims. This might include (but is not limited to), the right to use them in their printed and online publicity, social media, press releases and funding applications.
Insurance
The organizers do not accept liability for personal accident, loss, or damage to private property incurred as a result of participation in WSF-12. Delegates are advised to arrange appropriate insurance to cover travel, cancellation, or medical costs, and theft or damage of belongings.
Payment methods
Wire transfer, Credit card
Currencies accepted by this event
Swiss francs (CHF) , Euros (EUR) , US dollars (USD) , Pounds sterling (GBP) , Japanese yen (JPY) , Canadian dollars (CAD) and Singapore dollars (SGD)
Event Awards
We are excited to announce two prestigious event awards in recognition and celebration of the outstanding contributions made by our participants during WSF-12.
2. Best Poster Awards
Winner Announcement: The winners of these awards will be announced during the closing ceremony of the conference. Results will be announced on the website, and all winners will be individually contacted via email.
Venue Information
Location
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU)
Adress: ST805, the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, 11 Yuk Choi Rd, Hung Hom, Hong Kong
Source: https://www.polyu.edu.hk/ (official website)
With over 85 years of rich heritage, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has evolved alongside Hong Kong, making pivotal contributions to its social and economic development, as well as to the Nation and the world. PolyU aspires to be an innovative world-class university that pursues excellence in education, research and knowledge transfer. Guided by its motto, “To learn and to apply, for the benefit of mankind”, the University nurtures socially responsible professionals and leaders with a strong sense of national pride and a global perspective, while driving world-leading research and innovation for societal benefits. PolyU’s unwavering commitment to excellence, impact, and innovation has earned it widespread international recognition. The University consistently ranks among the world’s top 100 universities, a testament to its status as a global leader in higher education and cutting-edge research.
Venue
Block Z, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Main Conference Hall: Lam Chik Ho Lecture Theatre (Z209), 2/F, Block Z
Click here to ➡️ Campus Map（official map）
Route to Block Z (official vedio from PolyU Adimissions):
Route1: Starting Point-Hung Hom Station Exit A1
Route2: Starting Point-Hung Hom Station Exit D1
Route3: Starting Point-Main Entrance (Cheong Wan Road)
Travel
By Plane
Getting from Hong Kong International Airport to PolyU
· By MTR
1. At the Airport, take Airport Express from Hong Kong International Airport to Tsing Yi Station.
2. Next interchange to Tung Chung Line for Hong Kong Station at Tsing Yi Station Platform 4.
3. Then interchange to Tuen Ma Line for Wu Kai Sha Station at Nam Cheong Station Platform 2.
4. Get off at Hung Hum Station and take the footbridge at Exit A1 or D1 to the campus.
For more details, please read the MTR website
· By bus
1. Take Cityflyer route A21 from Airport (Ground Transportation Centre) Bus Terminus to Hung Hom Station.
2. Take the footbridge at Hung Hom Station Exit D1 or A1 that leads you to the campus.
For more details, please read the Citybus website
· By taxi
Take Urban red taxis to go to PolyU and drop off at PolyU's main entrance on Cheong Wan Road.
Duration: ~30–45 minutes (varies with traffic) | Estimated Fare: ~HKD280–380
Additional charges occur for large baggage. The toll and return toll are both payable by a passenger for cross-harbour hiring.
By High-Speed Rail
Getting from Hong Kong West Kowloon High-Speed Rail Station to PolyU
· By MTR
1. From the West Kowloon High-Speed Rail Station, take the Tuen Ma Line bound for Wu Kai Sha Station.
2. Alight at Hung Hom Station and take the footbridge at Exit A1 or D1 to reach the campus.
For more details, please read the MTR website
· By taxi
Take Urban red taxis to go to PolyU and drop off at PolyU's main entrance on Cheong Wan Road.
Duration: ~10–15 minutes (varies with traffic) | Estimated Fare: ~HKD45
Accommodation
We have carefully selected some accommodation options near the PolyU to ensure your stay is comfortable and convenient. Please note that the event organizer is not responsible for any hotel payments. Attendees are required to make their own hotel reservations.
Regal Kowloon Hotel
Ideally situated in Tsim Sha Tsui East within close walking distance of the MTR, hotel is an exquisite blend of classical European elegance with Oriental hospitality. Regal Kowloon Hotel integrates sustainability into business strategy → Regal Kowloon Hotel-Sustainbility
Adress: 71 Mody Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui East, Hong Kong
Distance from PolyU: 9 minutes' walk (650 m)
Email: Jason Lin (RKH) <rkh.dos@regalhotel.com>
Check-in /Check-out: 15:00 / 12:00
*Please click this special booking link and use the group code "WSF12" to to make advance with instant online booking confirmation and the preferred rates.
Hotel Stage
Park Hotel
Adress: 61–65 Chatham Rd S, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
Distance from PolyU: 9 minutes' walk (650 m)
Notice: Beware of Unauthorized Accommodation Offers
- Sciforum is the only official registration platform for WSF12
- MDPI does NOT have a hotel reservation department.
- We are not affiliated with any travel agencies beyond those listed on our website.
Tourism
Urban-Nature Harmony | Sustainable Design | Eco-Friendly Mobility
Victoria Harbor captures the essence of Hong Kong — a stunning meeting point of tradition and modernity. Stroll along the waterfront promenade to admire the skyline of green architecture and enjoy the dazzling Symphony of Lights, where the city’s energy and creativity shine across the night sky.
Riding the historic Ding Ding tram through Central and then heading up to The Peak offers an eco-friendly journey through time. From the Peak, sweeping views of the city and harbor reveal Hong Kong’s balance between urban growth and environmental preservation.
The M+ Museum stands as a cultural landmark of contemporary art and design. Its striking architecture and sustainable design reflect Hong Kong’s forward-thinking spirit. Inside, visitors explore modern art, moving images, and installations that connect local stories with global creativity — a must-visit for art lovers and curious minds alike.
Route 2 – Cultural Tourism
Historical Architecture | Revitalization | Heritage Conservation
Begin at Central Market, a Grade III historic building reopened after years of revitalization. Once a bustling market in the 1930s, it has been transformed into a vibrant community hub blending heritage architecture with modern design. The open-air atrium, terrazzo staircases, and art installations create a sense of urban nostalgia.
From there, stroll up to Pottinger Street, one of Hong Kong’s most iconic heritage lanes. The granite steps, built in the mid-19th century, wind between old façades, traditional shops, and market stalls selling costumes and souvenirs. Walking along the uneven stones is a reminder of the city’s evolution from a colonial port to a global metropolis.
End the day at Tai Kwun, an award-winning conservation project that has transformed the former Central Police Station compound into a cultural landmark. The site integrates 16 restored historic buildings with contemporary art galleries, cafés, and open courtyards, creating a harmonious dialogue between old and new.
Route 3 – Natural Tourism
Marine Park | Ecological Conservation | Hiking
Tung Ping Chau, located at the northeastern tip of Hong Kong, is a designated area within the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark. The island is renowned for its striking sedimentary rock formations, rich marine ecosystems, and serene coastal scenery.
A one-day trip to Tung Ping Chau allows visitors to experience both geological wonders and ecological diversity. The Tung Ping Chau Country Trail encircles the island, guiding travelers past famous landmarks such as Kang Lau Shek, Lung Lok Shui, and Cham Keng Chau, where the island’s unique layered rock formations vividly record millions of years of natural history. Along the trail, visitors can enjoy the beauty of coral beaches, marine habitats, and panoramic ocean views.
Transportation:
Ferry Departure: Ma Liu Shui Pier (near the University MTR Station)
Destination: Tung Ping Chau
Schedule: Operates mainly on weekends and public holidays
Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours each way
Tips: Check the latest ferry schedule in advance. Bring enough food and water, as facilities on the island are limited.
Thematic Highlight – Hong Kong Flavors
Hong Kong is a paradise for food lovers, where East meets West on every plate. Classic dim sum like siu mai and har gow, golden egg tarts, and silky milk tea represent the city’s culinary heritage. On the streets, you’ll find steaming cheung fun, curry fish balls, and egg waffles — simple yet iconic snacks that define local life. For something heartier, roast goose, wonton noodles, and clay pot rice bring comfort to every table. From bustling cha chaan tengs to modern cafés, Hong Kong’s cuisine tells the story of a city that celebrates flavor, tradition, and creativity.
Visa Information
Most nationalities can visit Hong Kong for a short period without a visa; however, the requirements vary by country, with visa-free stays ranging from 7 days to 180 days. To confirm your specific requirements, visit the Hong Kong Immigration Department website. For longer stays, you must apply for a visa in advance, either through the nearest Chinese diplomatic mission, a local sponsor, or directly by post to the Immigration Department. You will need your passport, sufficient funds, proof of accommodation, and your travel itinerary to apply for a visa.
1. Check Your Visa-Free Status
Varying Periods: Hong Kong allows visa-free entry for short visits for nationals of many countries, but the duration of stay differs.
Specific Information: Check the official Hong Kong Immigration Department (immd.gov.hk) website or the Hong Kong Tourism Board for details specific to your country of origin.
2. When a Visa is Required
Extended Stays: You need to apply for a visa or entry permit if your planned visit exceeds the visa-free period allowed for your nationality.
3. How to Apply for a Visa
Visa Application: Applicants must submit their visa application to the nearest Chinese diplomatic and consular mission or directly to the Hong Kong Immigration Department.
Sponsor: A local sponsor can also be used to submit the visa application on your behalf.
e-Visa: The Immigration Department issues "e-Visas," which are PDF-formatted notification slips, upon approval of the application.
4. Required Documents
Passport: A valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond your planned stay.
Application Form: A completed Hong Kong visitor visa application form.
Financial Proof: Evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay, such as bank statements.
Travel Documents: Proof of onward or return transportation arrangements, like flight bookings.
Other Documents: Passport-sized photographs and proof of accomodation may also be required.
Visa Support Letter
● Applicants must have paid for registration and submitted an abstract in order to get a letter of support
● Applicants must provide us with a scan of their valid, in-date passport that contains a photo of them.
● Applicants must provide us with a letter of support from their institution to confirm that they support the delegate attending the meeting.
● This must be carried out in good time before the meeting; “last minute” requests will not be processed.
Request for Visa Application Document(s) - Invitation Letter
If, for visa purposes, you require an invitation letter to allow you to travel to Hong Kong, please email wsf12@mdpi.com the following details to the conference secretariat:
● Photocopy of your passport;
● Name (as it appears on your passport);
● Passport number;
● Nationality;
● Date and Place of Birth;
● Place of Issue;
● Date of Issue: dd/mm/yyyy;
● Expiration Date: dd/mm/yyyy;
● Country of departure;
● Job title;
● Organization;
● Mailing address;
● Email.
Kindly ensure that you have completed your registration and made payment before sending in your request for your visa application document(s) to the conference secretariat. The document(s) will be prepared and sent by email. Failure to provide the above information will result in the delay of your invitation letter.
Sponsors and Partners
For questions regarding sponsorship opportunities, check out our Sponsorship Prospectus or contact wsf12@mdpi.com.
Organizers
Media Partners
Supporting Journals
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Supporting Organizations
Sponsorship Opportunities
With a global audience of academic, policy, and industry participants, WSF-12 offers a unique platform to connect your organization with thought leaders and decision-makers shaping a sustainable and resilient future.
Join us in driving innovation and collaboration at the 12th World Sustainability Forum (WSF-12), 21–24 August 2026, Hong Kong.
Download our Sponsorship Prospectus:
Secure Your Strategic Advantage at WSF-12
Gain exposure and build meaningful connections with 500+ participants, including sustainability experts, policymakers, researchers, and corporate leaders from across the globe.
Benefits for All Sponsors, Regardless of Package:
- Display your logo, website link, and organization profile on the WSF-12 webpage.
- Your logo will appear in our digital and printed Book of Abstracts.
Exclusive Networking Opportunities:
Engage directly with our VIP guests, keynote speakers, and institutional partners at dedicated networking sessions and appreciation dinners.
Email us to find out more:
Feel free to contact our partnerships and sponsorships representative at wsf12@mdpi.com.
Event Secretaries
Mrs. Amy Cheng
Mrs. Cassie Zhao
Mrs. Fionn Ee
Dr. Alina-Andrada Igna
Mrs. Flora Li
Email: wsf12@mdpi.com
For inquiries regarding submissions and sponsorship opportunities, please feel free to contact us.
