Behind the Programme: An interview with AquaConSoil 2025 Project Manager Siem Jansen

With AquaConSoil 2025 approaching, Team Leader Siem Jansen reflects on the conference programme, its development, and what makes this year's event particularly significant for the soil and water management community.

The programme for AquaConSoil 2025 has just been released. What can attendees expect?

“The programme has been carefully curated by the Programme Committee led by Chair Frederic Coulon. They have peer reviewed all submissions and selected 240 scientific presentations from researchers across 33 countries, covering a broad range of topics from emerging contaminants to climate resilience strategies for soil systems. Each day begins with thematic keynotes that set the context for the sessions that follow, creating a coherent narrative throughout the conference. Furthermore, we introduced the spotlight presentation to give more attendees the chance to present their findings, and reserved time for discussions in each session. And more than ever, the conference's opening and closing will aim to bind and amplify its core findings and message.”

What distinguishes AquaConSoil from other scientific conferences in this field?”

“The distinctive strength of AquaConSoil has always been its role as a convergence point for different sectors. We're not just a scientific conference—we're a meeting ground where scientists, policymakers, and industry leaders come together to exchange ideas and explore the real-world application of research findings. Policymakers gain direct access to emerging evidence that can inform regulatory frameworks, while industry representatives discover innovative methodologies before they become standard practice.

What I've observed is that the most valuable outcomes often emerge from unplanned interactions. Those conversations during coffee breaks or networking events frequently lead to new collaborations and unexpected insights. We've deliberately designed the programme with ample space for these informal exchanges.”

What can you tell us about the location and organization for AquaConSoil 2025?

"We're excited to be hosting AquaConSoil 2025 in Liège this year. The University of Liège is serving as our hosting partner, bringing their expertise in interdisciplinary research and innovation in environmental sciences. The university provides AquaConSoil the connection with several initiatives, supported by the Walloon region, to improve on, for example, sustainable land management, which perfectly aligns with the aim of AquaConSoil.

As for many years, Deltares, where I serve as Team Leader, has a role of organising party. Our position as an independent knowledge institute allows us to bridge the worlds of scientists, industry, and government. We understand the language and needs of different stakeholders, which helps us create a integrative event where diverse perspectives can come together productively. 

The partnership structure, emphasizing collaboration with regional consortia, aligns very well with our mission to connect diverse perspectives and address regional challenges. In fact, we'll be opening bids soon for hosting partners for the 2027 edition, inviting consortia that share our vision to express their interest in hosting the next conference.

This year's programme includes expanded initiatives for Early Career Professionals. Why this focus?

“Environmental challenges are becoming increasingly complex, requiring fresh perspectives and interdisciplinary approaches. Early Career Professionals bring valuable new methodologies and viewpoints that can challenge established practices in productive ways. Simultaneously, ECPs generally have the longest remaining time on Earth, and should therefore be actively involved in the dialogue concerning their future. We've created opportunities for ECPs to co-chair sessions alongside established researchers, participate in specialized workshops, and connect with potential mentors and collaborators.

It's not just about supporting the next generation—it's about enriching the field as a whole. When you bring together researchers at different career stages, everyone benefits from the exchange of ideas.”

What topics are receiving particular attention in this year's programme?

“Climate resilience is certainly a dominant theme, with numerous presentations addressing how soil and water systems are adapting to changing conditions. We're also seeing significant work on emerging contaminants, particularly PFAS and microplastics, requiring novel detection and remediation approaches.

What's particularly encouraging is the increasing focus on translating scientific consensus into actionable policy. Many presenters are explicitly addressing implementation challenges and proposing frameworks that bridge the gap between research findings and practical solutions.”

Any final thoughts for potential attendees still deciding whether to register?

“Environmental science stands at a critical juncture where interdisciplinary approaches aren't just beneficial but essential. What makes AquaConSoil valuable is that it provides the forum where scientific rigor meets policy practicality and implementation expertise. This synergy accelerates the transition from research findings to environmental solutions.

Whether you're presenting research, seeking partners for implementation, or looking to shape policy frameworks, AquaConSoil 2025 offers a unique ecosystem for advancing the field together. The programme is now available on our website, and I would encourage interested professionals to explore it and register soon to secure their place. Our 40 year celebration promises to be a great one!”