SETAC Asia-Pacific 16th Meeting - Australasia

This track explores the sources, occurrence, environmental fate, transport, transformation, exposure pathways and effects of chemical contaminants. It encompasses legacy and emerging contaminants, including pesticides, pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs), per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), metals and metalloids, plastics and microplastics, nanomaterials, antimicrobials, industrial chemicals and chemical mixtures. Contributions are encouraged that address state-of -the-art science for chemical characterisation, environmental monitoring, fate assessment, bioavailability, toxicity, mixture interactions, and exposure including isotope-based techniques. Emphasis is placed on identifying emerging chemical hazards and generating robust evidence for protection of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems and human health.  

Keywords: Contaminants, PFAS, microplastics, metals, metalloids, PPCPs, antimicrobials, chemical mixtures, bioavailability, biodegradation, speciation, toxicity, hazard 

This track aims to showcase emerging technologies, innovative scientific approaches, and transformative tools and methodologies that advance environmental (eco)toxicology, chemistry, and risk assessment. We welcome contributions on New Approach Methodologies (NAMs), omics technologies, environmental RNA approaches, computational toxicology and predictive modelling. The track also explores digital monitoring platforms, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning applications, remote sensing, in-situ assessment approaches, biosensors, low-cost analytical techniques, and big data approaches. The development, validation and application of innovative analytical methods applied within the Asia Pacific region are encouraged. 

Keywords: aquatic and terrestrial ecotoxicology, analytical chemistry, molecular and cellular toxicology, omics, adverse outcome pathways, biomarkers, targeted and non-targeted pollutant screening, biosensors, passive sampling, eDNA, in vitro and in silico methods, QSARs, mechanistic effect models  

This track focuses on understanding, assessing and protecting freshwater, terrestrial, estuarine, coastal, and marine ecosystems. We welcome research investigating the effects of environmental contaminants and other anthropogenic pressures including changing climate, fires and floods on ecological systems, on these systems especially those with a focus on Australasia. Topics include aquatic and terrestrial ecotoxicology, wildlife toxicology, biodiversity assessment, ecological monitoring, bioindicators, ecosystem services and ecological risk. Contributions integrating laboratory experiments, field investigations, mesocosm studies and ecosystem-level assessments are encouraged, including research adopting indigenous knowledge.  We encourage proposals for sessions that also consider extreme environments; hot and cold including Antarctica.  

Keywords: Climate change, fire, floods, rivers, groundwater, estuaries, marine parks, reefs, native species, Antarctica, ecotoxicology

This track examines how scientific evidence can inform environmental risk assessment, regulatory decision-making, and effective environmental governance. Contributions are encouraged on ecological and human health risk assessment, environmental monitoring frameworks, exposure and hazard assessment, regulatory toxicology, environmental quality guidelines, international standards, and compliance. The scope is strengthening science-policy interfaces, harmonising assessment approaches, and translating research findings into practical, transparent and context-appropriate regulatory decisions. Contributions describing the integration of novel approaches into environmental decision-making are welcomed. The track aims to showcase how scientists from academia, industry, regulatory authorities, communities and policy makers can work together for improved environmental quality and will facilitate joint discussions.  

Keywords: regulation, risk assessment methodology, chemical legislation, regulatory chemistry and (eco)toxicology, decision making, communication tools, knowledge transfer and dissemination  

This track focuses on practical science informed strategies, technologies and innovations to support sustainable development and prevent pollution, reduce environmental impacts, and restore degraded environments. Contributions addressing contaminated land and water remediation, ecosystem rehabilitation, nature-based solutions, green technologies and approaches that involve industrial ecology and life cycle thinking are encouraged. This track encourages collaboration between researchers, industry, policymakers and communities to translate scientific advances into measurable environmental improvement solutions.  

Keywords: Remediation, bioremediation, mining, legacy, restoration, pollution prevention, green chemistry, circular economy, life cycle assessment

This track provides a platform for innovative and forward-looking approaches to address complex environmental challenges. We welcome session proposals that challenge conventional thinking, foster collaboration across scientific disciplines, and strengthen connections. Particular emphasis is placed on recognising and incorporating Indigenous knowledge systems, cultural values and the principles of Caring for Country to advance environmental stewardship, ecosystem health and biodiversity conservation. The track also welcomes emerging research areas and innovative ideas that generate new perspectives and transformative solutions. Possible examples include:

1. SETAC on the global platform: Intergovernmental Science-Policy Panel on Chemicals, Waste and Pollution (ISP-CWP) and the World Health Organisation Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
2. The role of AI in horizon scanning
3. Capacity building ...why, how and where? 

Keywords: transdisciplinary collaboration, indigenous knowledge stewardship, horizon scanning