The Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) recently hosted an impactful event in observance of World Water Day 2025, echoing the theme of glacier preservation. Held on March 21 at the Milton E. Bender Jr. Auditorium, the hybrid event titled “Glacier Preservation: Advancing Science, Inclusive Policies, and Partnerships for Sustainable Water Management”, served as a dynamic platform for crucial discussions among experts from academia, development agencies and governmental organizations.
Attended by a diverse audience, including members of the AIT community and virtual participants from around the world, the event delved into the vital role of glacier preservation in the global water cycle and explored strategies for sustainable water management. Organized by AIT’s Department of Water Resources and Environmental Engineering (WREE) and the Global Water & Sanitation Center (GWSC), in collaboration with the ICIMOD Himalayan University Consortium (ICIMOD-HUC), the event underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing complex water and environmental challenges.
A Gathering of Influential Voices
The event commenced with a strong sense of purpose as attendees gathered in anticipation of the critical discussions ahead. Prof. Sangam Shrestha, Dean of the School of Engineering and Technology (SET) at AIT and Co-Director of GWSC, delivered a powerful call to action in his opening remarks, setting the tone for a day centered on the urgent need for glacier preservation and sustainable water management. In a subsequent address, Prof. Pai-Chi Li, President of AIT, underscored the institute’s commitment to serving as a platform for global dialogue and advancing meaningful change on pressing environmental challenges.
Prof. John Pomeroy, Director of the USask Centre for Hydrology and a globally recognized expert, delivered the keynote address. Drawing from his extensive experience as a Professor at the University of Saskatchewan and UNESCO Chair in Mountain Water Sustainability, he provided a compelling overview of the science, predictions, and necessary responses to glacier decline. He presented concerning data on ice mass loss, stressed the critical role of glaciers in sustaining water resources, and discussed the far-reaching impacts of glacier loss on ecosystems and communities. He concluded by emphasizing the need for stronger collaboration between science and society to co-design sustainable solutions.
Resilience Through Dialogue
A key highlight of the event was the dynamic panel discussion titled “Strengthening and Integrating Science, Policy, and Investment for Future Climate Resilience”. Moderated by Dr. Dibesh Khadka, Senior Research Specialist and Affiliated Faculty at WREE, AIT, the session featured an engaging dialogue among distinguished panelists.
Dr. Archana Shrestha, Deputy Director General of the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology (DHM), Government of Nepal, offered valuable policy perspectives, emphasizing the role of governmental strategies in addressing the climate-related challenges.
Dr. Bapon Fakhruddin, Water Resources Management Senior Specialist at the Green Climate Fund (GCF), shared insights on the financial and strategic mechanisms for investing in climate resilience and mitigation.
Mr. Deepak KC, Program Analyst for Climate Change and Resilience at UNDP, contributed valuable perspectives on sustainable development practices and strategies for building resilient communities in the face of climate change.
Prof. Puyu Wang, Professor at the Northwest Institute Eco-Environment & Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), shared critical research findings and scientific insights on eco-environmental issues related to glacier preservation.
Dr. Wenchao Xue, Associate Professor in the Department of Water Resources and Environmental Engineering (WREE) and Director of the Belt Road and Research Center, AIT, enriched the discussion with her expertise in water resources engineering and regional development.
Dr. Natthachet Tangdamrongsub, Assistant Professor at WREE, AIT, further enriched the panel with insights from the field of water and climate systems.
The discussions addressed crucial facets of glacier preservation, including the alarming impacts of climate change, the significance of glaciers as freshwater reservoirs – holding about 70% of the world’s freshwater– and the far-reaching consequences of glacier melt, such as sea-level rise exceeding 65 meters and increased risks of GLOFs. The audience actively engaged with the panel during the Q&A session, reflecting the urgency and relevance of the topic.
Looking Ahead with Purpose
The event concluded with remarks that offered a sense of direction and future commitment. Prof. Thammarat Koottatep, Professor at WREE and Co-Director of GWSC, provided a summary of the day’s key discussions and reiterated the importance of continued collaboration. Dr. Chi Huyen Truong (Shachi), Lead of the Himalayan University Consortium (HUC), also delivered closing remarks, emphasizing the crucial role of regional cooperation and knowledge sharing in addressing the specific challenges faced by the Himalayan region.
Prof. Thammarat Koottatep giving the concluding the event
A Testament to Collaborative Action
The World Water Day 2025 event at AIT served as a powerful testament to the necessity of collaborative action in addressing global water challenges. The strong partnership between AIT’s WREE, GWSC, and ICIMOD HUC highlighted the importance of uniting diverse perspectives to drive meaningful change. Through interdisciplinary dialogue, inclusive policy development, and strengthened partnerships, the event made a significant contribution to advancing the global mission of sustainable water management and environmental preservation.
