International Conference on Green and Sustainable Development

Join us in shaping a sustainable future through bold ideas, inclusive innovation, and collaborative action.

8-12 March 2026

Protea Hotel Stellenbosch, Cape Town

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Reimagining Innovation Pathways for Sustainability: Research, Practice and Policy

The International Conference on Green and Sustainable Development (ICGSD) 2026 invites thought leaders, researchers, innovators, and change makers to engage in transformative conversations around the future of sustainability. With a focus on reimagining sustainability through the integration of indigenous knowledge systems, emerging technologies, and afrocentric innovation, the four-day event provides a dynamic platform for cross-sector collaboration and actionable dialogue.

Format of the Conference

Keynote Speeches
Panel Discussion
Paper Presentation
PhD Colloquium / Workshops
Innovation Showcase
Networking Events
Company Showcase

THEMES & TOPICS

Sustainable Business, Management, and Economics
  • Green entrepreneurship and innovation
  • Circular economy practices
  • Sustainable finance and investment
  • Projects on dynamic environment
  • Sustainable supply chain management
Green Technologies and Innovation
  • Emerging technology: Application of Artificial Intelligence, Internet of things and Robotics

  • Sustainable materials and design

  • Waste management and recycling innovations

  • Smart cities and green building technologies 

Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation
  • Climate-resilient infrastructure
  • Renewable energy solutions
  • Carbon footprint reduction strategies 
Social Equity and Sustainable Development
  • Financial Inclusion
  • Gender and social inclusion in sustainable practices
  • Community-led conservation efforts
  • Addressing inequality in access to resources 
Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems
  • Innovative farming techniques
  • Food security and sustainable nutrition
  • Agroecology and permaculture 
Environmental Policy and Governance
  • Policy frameworks for sustainable development
  • International agreements and local implementation 
  • Role of governments and NGOs in promoting sustainability 

Submissions & guidelines

Original submissions may be made as either Work-in-Progress (WIP) Abstracts or Competitive Papers. WIP Abstracts present proposals for future studies, incomplete or ongoing research, or emerging ideas related to the conference theme, to generate feedback and stimulate discussion. Competitive Papers may be submitted on any focus area related to the theme of the conference, provided they are linked to at least one Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) and AU Agenda 2063. These contributions can span across disciplines and may include full research papers, case studies, technical papers, or literature review papers.

  • WIP Abstract: 300-500 words (max) outlining the research problem, methodology, findings, and implications
  • Competitive paper: Max 25 pages (6,000–7,000 words, incl. references).

  • PhD Colloquium paper: Max 5 pages (excl. references).

  • Innovation showcase submission: A concise overview of the innovation project (150–250 words). Summarize the purpose, core innovation, relevance to sustainability and green development, and expected outcomes or impact.

REGISTRATION & FEES

Presenter

R 7 750

Includes access to the welcome function, gala dinner, daily refreshments, and lunches during the conference.

Student

PhD Colloquium or Innovation Showcase
R 3 000

Includes access to the welcome function, gala dinner, daily refreshments, and lunches during the conference.

Attendee or Accompanying Person

R 3 500

Includes access to the welcome function, gala dinner, daily refreshments, and lunches during the conference.

Early Bird

Early bird discounts are valid until
15 December 2025

Be part of the global conversation redefining sustainability through research, practice, and policy.