SETAC Asia-Pacific Announces 2026 Conference in Tsukuba, Japan
Zuzanna Neziri, SETAC Asia-Pacific Executive Director
SETAC Asia-Pacific is excited to announce that the 15th biennial conference will be held 20–23 September 2026 at the Tsukuba International Congress Center in Tsukuba, Japan. With the theme “Rethinking Environmental Balance Through Science and Innovation,” the conference will convene scientists, regulators, industry leaders and students to exchange knowledge and shape solutions for regional and global environmental challenges. The meeting will be co-chaired by well-known SETACers Norihisa Tatarazako, Hiroshi Yamamoto and Wataru Naito.
The co-chairs expect more than 500 delegates from around the world to join the meeting. The scientific program will reflect the diversity and complexity of the Asia-Pacific region. Tracks will explore topics such as environmental and human toxicology, ecosystem dynamics under multiple stressors, the fate and risk of chemicals in unique regional systems, remediation and restoration approaches, and the integration of science with policy and governance. Other sessions will focus on emerging issues, including plastics, biodiversity, big data and artificial intelligence, as well as capacity building for the next generation of scientists.
Tsukuba, known as Japan’s “science city,” provides an ideal backdrop for these discussions. Tsukuba is very accessible and is located less than an hour by train from Tokyo. It is home to world-leading institutions, such as the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology and the National Institute for Environmental Studies.
Delegates will have opportunities to explore many natural and cultural attractions. For nature lovers, there are many hiking trails and hot springs around Mt. Tsukuba, one of the most famous mountains in Japan, particularly well known for its double peaks. Tsukuba offers an excellent setting for international participants, combining natural beauty with convinient access to major cultural sites. The city is located near Lake Kasumigaura, one of Japan's largest lakes known for its scenery and enviromental research value. Tsukuba is also well connected to Tokyo. Asakusa and Akihabara are only 45 minutes awat by train, giving attendees easy access to historic and modern districts during their stay.
Calls for sessions will open in late 2025, followed by abstract submissions in early 2026 and registration by mid 2026. The conference will be jointly organised by SETAC Asia-Pacific and the SETAC Japan Regional Chapter.
More details will be shared on the meeting website and through #SETACTsukuba.
Contact: [email protected]