Advancing the Energy–Water Nexus for a Sustainable and Resilient Future
The 2nd International Conference on Energy and Water for a Sustainable Environment (ICEWSE 2026) was held on 5–6 October 2026 at the Civil Engineering Auditorium, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka. Jointly organised by the University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, and Pondicherry University, India, under the guidance of their respective UNESCO Chairs, the conference provided an international platform for research sharing, knowledge exchange and discussion at the intersection of energy, water and environmental sustainability. The conference brought together academic and professional perspectives on sustainable energy, water-resource management, environmental protection and resilience, promoting research collaboration across disciplines and institutions.
ICEWSE 2026 highlighted the importance of integrated thinking in addressing global energy and water challenges. By bringing together different research perspectives, the conference encouraged dialogue on practical solutions, sustainable technologies and responsible resource management.
The conference also strengthened the importance of international academic cooperation and knowledge exchange in advancing sustainable development. The connections and ideas shared during ICEWSE 2026 form part of the continuing effort to promote a more sustainable and resilient future.
The conference proceedings proposal of ICEWSE 2026 has been conditionally accepted by Springer Nature for one proceedings book volume comprising 30–35 papers.
Select papers from the conference will be published by Springer as a proceedings book volume. Springer will conduct quality checks on the accepted papers and only papers that pass these checks will be published.
We do not publish abstracts, extended abstracts, literature review articles, policy reviews, questionnaires/survey or interview based papers. We only publish full papers, original articles with new outcomes in proceedings (not less than 6 pages).
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The 2nd International Conference on Energy and Water for a Sustainable Environment (ICEWSE 2026) brought together researchers, academics, professionals and innovators to explore two closely connected areas that are fundamental to the future of our planet: sustainable water resources and clean energy technologies.
Through research presentations, professional dialogue and the exchange of interdisciplinary knowledge, the conference explored how scientific advances, innovative technologies and integrated approaches can help address the growing challenges of climate change, resource security and environmental sustainability. The conference themes provided a platform for sharing new findings, examining practical applications and identifying opportunities for future research and collaboration.
From resilient water systems and responsible water-resource management to renewable energy, advanced energy materials and low-carbon technologies, ICEWSE 2026 highlighted the importance of connecting research with real-world needs. Together, these themes reflect a shared commitment to a more sustainable, resource-efficient and climate-resilient future.
“Innovative and Integrated Solutions for Water Security and Environmental Sustainability”
“Integrated Clean-Energy Innovations for a Circular and Resilient Future”
A look back at two days of research, knowledge exchange and international collaboration at the University of Moratuwa. Explore moments captured throughout the conference, from the opening day to the final sessions.
ICEWSE 2026 · 5–6 October 2026 · University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka
Great research does more than expand our knowledge. It challenges conventional thinking, inspires new ideas and helps shape practical solutions to the environmental challenges facing our world. At ICEWSE 2026, the SAF Awards recognise researchers whose work contributes to advancing knowledge in sustainable energy and water.
From innovative approaches to the energy demands of artificial intelligence to new insights into soil moisture, carbon capture and climate-driven rainfall, this year's award-winning contributions demonstrate the breadth and importance of research at the energy–water–environment nexus.
Join us in congratulating our four award recipients and celebrating the dedication, creativity and scientific curiosity behind their work.
Best Oral Presentation Award · Energy Sector
Independent Researcher, India
Award-Winning Abstract
Powering the Sustainable AI Future: Frugal Intelligence, Sustainable Energy and Lifecycle Accounting at the Energy–Water Nexus
Best Oral Presentation Award · Water Sector
UMCSAWM, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka
Award-Winning Abstract
Evaluating SMAP L4 Root-Zone Soil Moisture Against Hydrologically Simulated Soil-Water States in the Upper Kelani River Basin, Sri Lanka
Best Poster Presentation Award · Energy Sector
Pondicherry University, India
Award-Winning Abstract
Biomass-Derived Activated Carbons for CO₂ Capture: Preparation, Surface Engineering, Characterization, Adsorption Mechanisms, and Industrial Applications
Best Poster Presentation Award · Water Sector
UMCSAWM, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka
Award-Winning Abstract
Climate-Driven Rise in Consecutive Extreme Rainfall and Its Implications for Spillway Capacity: A Case Study in Manankattiya Reservoir, Sri Lanka
ICEWSE 2026 is jointly hosted by internationally recognized academic centres dedicated to advancing sustainable solutions in energy, water management, and environmental resilience.
Department of Civil Engineering
University of Moratuwa (UOM)
Department of Green Energy Technology (DGET)
Pondicherry University
Sri Lanka’s leading technological university and a centre of excellence in education, research, innovation, and sustainable development.
University of Moratuwa is an independent state university established in 1978 under the Universities Act No. 16 of 1978. Located in Katubedda, Moratuwa, overlooking the picturesque Bolgoda Lake, UoM is widely recognized as Sri Lanka’s premier technological university and a centre of excellence in higher education, research, and innovation.
The university comprises six Faculties including Architecture, Business, Engineering, Information Technology, Graduate Studies, and Medicine with 36 academic departments. It offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes together with research degrees at Master's, MPhil, and PhD levels, serving a vibrant academic community of more than 11,500 undergraduate students.
Supported by advanced academic infrastructure, internationally recognized research centres, industry collaborations, and a culture of creativity and entrepreneurship, the University of Moratuwa continues to contribute significantly to technological advancement and sustainable national development.
Leading institution for technology and innovation in Sri Lanka.
Driving impactful research and industry collaboration.
Creating solutions for national and global challenges.
Advancing sustainable water management, climate resilience, and regional knowledge collaboration across South Asia.
The UNESCO Madanjeet Singh Centre for South Asia Water Management (UMCSAWM), established at the University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, with the support of the South Asia Foundation and UNESCO, promotes education, research, and innovation in water-resources management, climate resilience, and sustainability.
The UNESCO Chair on Sustainable Water Resources Management in South Asia, based at UMCSAWM, strengthens academic and research initiatives while fostering regional collaboration, knowledge exchange, and innovation.
Through its master's programme, applied research, and professional activities, UMCSAWM develops skilled water professionals and promotes innovative solutions to water scarcity, flooding, climate change, water quality, and other water-related challenges in South Asia and beyond.
Developing sustainable approaches for responsible water-resource management.
Creating solutions for climate adaptation and environmental challenges.
Connecting researchers and professionals throughout South Asia.
A premier Central University advancing higher education, research, innovation, and sustainable development in India and beyond.
Pondicherry University is a Central University established under an Act of Parliament (Act No. 53 of 1985) and accredited with an A+ Grade by NAAC. It is a prominent destination for higher education and research, attracting students from across India and overseas.
The university comprises 15 Schools, 38 Departments, 11 Centres, and one Chair, offering more than 144 postgraduate, diploma, certificate, and research programmes to approximately 7,000 students. It also undertakes over 130 funded research projects supported by agencies including UGC, DST, CSIR, and DBT.
Spread across an 880-acre green campus, Pondicherry University provides modern academic and residential facilities while promoting interdisciplinary research, international collaboration, and sustainable development. The university also operates centres in Karaikal and Port Blair, supporting specialized education and research in coastal, marine, and disaster-management disciplines.
A leading Central University with diverse higher education programmes.
Advancing funded research and interdisciplinary collaboration.
A sustainable 880-acre campus supporting global learning.
Advancing renewable energy education, clean technology innovation, and sustainable development through regional collaboration.
The UNESCO Madanjeet School of Green Energy Technology (UMSGET) at Pondicherry University promotes education, research, and innovation in sustainable and clean energy technologies.
The UNESCO Chair on “Renewable and Clean Energy for Sustainable Development” (2024–2028), established within UMSGET at Pondicherry University, advances green energy technologies through research, training, and knowledge exchange.
In collaboration with UNESCO, the Madanjeet Singh Foundation (MSF), and the South Asia Foundation (SAF)-India, UMSGET works with governments, academic institutions, industries, and researchers to develop practical solutions for sustainable development in South Asia and beyond.
Promoting clean energy technologies for a sustainable future.
Developing research-driven solutions for energy challenges.
Building partnerships for sustainable development across South Asia.
Explore the published proceedings from previous ICEWSE conferences, showcasing research contributions and innovations in sustainable energy, water resources, and environmental management.
The International Conference on Energy and Water for a Sustainable Environment (ICEWSE 2026) brings together researchers, academics, industry professionals, and practitioners to share research, innovations, and practical approaches addressing challenges in energy, water resources, and sustainable environmental development. The official Book of Abstracts presents the research contributions featured at the conference.
📄 View Book of Abstracts
The inaugural International Conference on Energy and Water for a Sustainable Environment (ICEWSE 2025) brought together researchers, academics, industry professionals, and policymakers to share innovative research and practical solutions addressing global sustainability challenges. The official abstract proceedings capture the diverse contributions presented during the conference.
📄 View ProceedingsICEWSE 2026 is jointly convened by internationally recognized UNESCO Chairholders dedicated to advancing sustainable water resources management and renewable energy technologies across South Asia.
