On March 24, 2024, the 8th International Conference on Tropical and Coastal Region Eco Development (ICTCRED) was held at the Aruss Hotel, organized by the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science (FPIK) at Diponegoro University (Undip). This biennial event brought together scholars, researchers, and practitioners to discuss critical issues at the intersection of aquatic science and climate change. The key theme for this year’s conference is “Integrating Aquatic Science and Climate Change Mitigation for Sustainable Coastal Development,” emphasizing the need for collaborative solutions to pressing environmental challenges.
The event commenced with opening remarks from the dean of FPIK and the head of the organizing committee, who set the stage for a day filled with insightful discussions and knowledge sharing. Then attendees were treated to a vibrant the Great Semarang dance, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Semarang. This cultural presentation not only enlivened the atmosphere but also highlighted the importance of integrating local culture within the context of environmental sustainability.
The main session featured esteemed keynote and invited speakers, including Prof. Dr. Ir. Slamet Budi Prayitno, M.Sc from Undip, Prof. Toshio Suga from Tohoku University, Hansan Park, Ph.D from Kyung Hee University, Dr. Noor Faizul Hardy Nordin from International Islamic University Malaysia, and Maria Vanessa Baria-Rodriguez, Ph.D from the University of the Philippines. Each speaker brought a unique perspective to the discussions, addressing various aspects of aquatic science and its relevance to climate change mitigation efforts. Their presentations laid a strong foundation for subsequent discussions and research presentations.
Following the keynote sessions, participants engaged in article and poster presentations, which were organized into several groups. This session encouraged active participation and facilitated in-depth discussions on a range of topics related to sustainable coastal development. The articles presented during ICTCRED 2024 are eligible for publication in reputable journals, including the IOP Conference Series Proceedings and the Aquaculture, Aquarium, Conservation & Legislation – International Journal of the Bioflux Society, and other several Q3 journals. This opportunity highlights the conference’s commitment to fostering scholarly discourse and contributing to the knowledge in aquatic science and environmental studies.
ICTCRED 2024 not only served as a platform for sharing research and ideas but also supporting the missions of The SDGs Center of Diponegoro University. By focusing on the integration of aquatic science and climate change, the conference aimed to contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), promoting sustainable practices and policies in coastal regions. The collaborative spirit and diverse expertise shared during this event underline the importance of collective action in addressing the multifaceted challenges facing our aquatic ecosystems and coastal communities.
