As an attendee of the IV Ibero-American Congress of Sediments and Ecology (CISE) and the First Ibero-American Conference on Erosion and Sedimentation (JIES), I can confidently say that this event exceeded all expectations. Held from August 5-9, 2024, at the stunning Atlantic headquarters of the University of Costa Rica in Turrialba, the congress brought together 120 participants from 13 countries, making it a vibrant and diverse gathering of experts passionate about tackling erosion and sedimentation challenges across the globe.
The success of the event was a testament to the hard work and collaboration between multiple organizations, including the University of Costa Rica, UNESCO ISI, and the International Association for Erosion and Sediment Control Ibero-American Chapter (IECA), among others. This marked the second time IECA IA has partnered with UNESCO ISI, building on their collaboration in Chile in 2018. The bond between these organizations shows how a collective effort can drive innovative solutions for global environmental challenges.
One of the event’s highlights was the breadth and depth of 52 presentations, covering a wide range of topics from rural road erosion to cutting-edge hydroseeding techniques. In addition, the congress featured two pre-congress classes that provided valuable certifications in CPESC (Certified Professional in Erosion and Sediment Control) and rural road management, further equipping attendees with practical tools to bring back to their respective regions.
The conference's 9 sponsor stands were a hub of interaction, showcasing products and services that are at the forefront of erosion and sediment control. These sponsors not only demonstrated innovative solutions but also contributed to the rich networking environment, fostering future collaborations.
What made the event even more engaging was the field trip, where we witnessed firsthand the impact of erosion in local ecosystems and saw how Costa Rican professionals are addressing these challenges. It was a perfect complement to the technical sessions, providing a tangible connection to the theories and strategies discussed throughout the week.
One unique aspect was the material testing hydroseeding application demonstration, which showed real-world application methods that have proven effective in stabilizing soil and preventing sediment runoff.
As an attendee, I was struck by the positive energy, the open exchange of ideas, and the global perspective shared at every turn. The event wasn't just about presentations and classes—it was about building a community of like-minded individuals committed to environmental stewardship.
Looking ahead, there is excitement in the air as we gear up for the next congress. The momentum we have gained in this edition of CISE and JIES sets a solid foundation for future collaborations. I can’t wait to see how we continue to evolve and expand, ensuring that erosion and sedimentation control remain at the forefront of environmental discussions.
In conclusion, this congress was more than just an educational experience—it was a space where lifelong connections were formed, and collaborative solutions for the world’s sediment and erosion challenges were born. I’m proud to have been part of it and am already looking forward to what’s next!
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