About SRI2021

The Sustainability Research & Innovation Congress 2021 (SRI2021) is the world’s first transdisciplinary gathering in sustainability – a space of fierce advocacy for sustainability scholarship, innovation, collaboration and action. The first in an annual series that unites global leaders, experts, industry and innovators to inspire action and promote a transformation in sustainability.

SRI2021 was a unique opportunity for diverse audiences to connect with the global sustainability community, learn about the latest sustainability science, create novel networks and partnerships, explore new ideas, gain visibility, inspire and be inspired.

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Congress launched as a live virtual event with a diverse and innovative online program. In addition to the 100+ sessions available throughout the day and night, thanks to the global reach of SRI and partners, the SRI2021 Online Package included exclusive events and services.

Australia was chosen as the host country for its unique mix of world-class sustainability scholarship, green innovation, cross-sectoral engagement and inclusive dialogue. Australia plays a unique role in the global community as a conduit between the Global North and the Global South, indigenous peoples and traditional sustainability practices.

The local hosting consortium features academia and government partners from Brisbane and the State of Queensland to meet the breadth of the SRI2021 agenda.

2021 Congress Pillars

SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS FROM THE GLOBAL SOUTH

Flipping the script on sustainability, introducing perspectives and lessons from the Global South, finding partners in the Global North, and exploring the differences.

INTEGRATED ACTION FOR THE SDGs

Identifying pathways to societal transformation, mapping actors, and evaluating synergies, trade-offs and risks.

ADVOCATING KNOWLEDGE-TO-ACTION

Advancing sustainability science through knowledge co-design.

SUSTAINABILITY FOR WHOM?

Encouraging diversity and inclusion to advance sustainability throughout generations.

RESILIENCE

Research and innovation which builds our capacity to deal with disturbances to function and flourish.

SRI2021 Objectives

Foster productive and solutions-oriented dialogue between disciplines and sectors.

Build a transdisciplinary science and innovation community, inclusive of all sectors and knowledge streams.

Share the latest research and knowledge, and provide a dynamic venue for training, mentoring, valorization, and synthesis.

Foster green entrepreneurship and sustainable innovation.

Develop evidence-based plans and strategies together to advance sustainability pathways.

Provide an interactive space for sustainability funders to explore new partnership models.

Increase use of sustainability research through effective public communication, including youth messaging.

Create a safe and engaging event for participants connecting virtually and those onsite.