Keynote Speaker: Associate Professor Dr. Siti Aqlima Ahmad

Associate Professor Dr. Siti Aqlima Ahmad

Associate Professor Dr. Siti Aqlima Ahmad is an environmental biotechnologist and polar scientist at the Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM). She leads the EcoRemediation Technology (EcoRemTech) Laboratory, where her research focuses on environmental biotechnology, particularly bioremediation of hydrocarbon pollution using microorganisms from polar and tropical environments. Her work integrates microbial biotechnology, nanobiotechnology, and sustainable environmental remediation to address global pollution challenges. Dr. Siti Aqlima has published over 200 Scopus-indexed publications and actively collaborates with researchers across Antarctica, Asia, Europe, Africa, and South America. She serves as Malaysia’s representative to the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR) Life Sciences Group and is a recipient of the Young Polar Scientist Award. Her research contributes to advancing innovative, nature-based solutions for environmental sustainability and global resilience.

Associate Professor Dr. Siti Aqlima Ahmad
Department of Biochemistry
Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences
Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM)

Keynote Speech

Keynote Title: Bioremediation Across Extreme and Tropical Environments: Transformative Innovations for Global Environmental Resilience

Abstract

Environmental pollution is among the defining challenges of our time, demanding innovative and sustainable solutions. Bioremediation harnesses the remarkable capabilities of microorganisms, plants, and natural biological processes to restore contaminated ecosystems while working in harmony with nature. Drawing on advances in environmental biotechnology and insights from both polar and tropical environments, this keynote explores emerging strategies for remediating hydrocarbon pollution, industrial waste, and other contaminants. It highlights how nature-based solutions, technological innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration are reshaping environmental restoration, strengthening ecosystem resilience, and advancing a more sustainable future for both people and the planet.

Post-Conference Workshop Title: From Innovation to Implementation: Translating Bioremediation Research into Sustainable Environmental Solutions.

Synopsis:
Bioremediation has become an important nature-based solution for addressing environmental pollution while supporting sustainable development and ecosystem resilience. This interactive workshop explores practical approaches to translating bioremediation research into real-world applications for environmental restoration, sustainable aquaculture, and climate resilience. Participants will discuss case studies from Antarctica, Malaysia, and the Maldives, focusing on diesel bioremediation using microorganisms, natural biosorbents, and nanobiotechnology. Through facilitated discussions and collaborative activities, participants will identify opportunities for interdisciplinary research, industry partnerships, and international collaboration to accelerate the adoption of sustainable environmental technologies.

Objectives:
1) Explore practical applications of bioremediation technologies for environmental restoration, sustainable aquaculture, and climate resilience.
2) Discuss the roles of microorganisms, natural biosorbents, and nanobiotechnology in developing sustainable, nature-based environmental solutions.
3) Examine strategies for translating bioremediation research into real-world applications through collaboration among academia, industry, and local communities.
4) Identify opportunities for interdisciplinary and international partnerships that advance environmental innovation and contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).