The United Nations’ has named 2013 the International Year of Water Cooperation. In response to the U.N.’s initiative, Michigan State University has organized a cross-disciplinary, educational conference titled “Water, Food Security and the Developing Global Crisis.”
Faculty members with expertise in climate, agricultural and food and water security will help tackle one of the greatest challenges of the 21st century.
“This is a really hot issue from a higher educational standpoint,” said Sean Lawrie, special projects coordinator for the MSU Institute of International Agriculture. “We’re definitely trying to speak to anyone who can make an impact in the areas of food and water security.”
The conference, which takes place Oct. 27-29 at the East Lansing Hannah Community Center, will highlight MSU’s research for a global audience. Keynote speaker Ana Persic, a representative from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, will relay the work of MSU’s faculty to policymakers responsible for implementing the U.N. water initiative.
MSU has had a relationship with the U.N. since the Greater Lansing Chapter of the United Nations Association was founded in 1959 by people affiliated with MSU.
“The partnership has blossomed largely due to President Lou Anna K. Simon’s world grant university vision,” said Joseph Hess, Greater Lansing Chapter president. “We wanted to highlight the major contributions MSU is making to address global challenges.”
Hess said global population projections suggest growth of 2 to 3 billion more people by the year 2050. The increase in population would add to demand on the global food and water supplies. The projections are a concern for U.N. members, according to Hess.
“The U.N. is calling on countries to work together in making better resource management plans,” Hess said. “MSU’s faculty members should be able to play key roles in developing these plans.”
MSU faculty members’ expertise will allow them to educate each other along with policymakers and the general public, Lawrie said.
“Our faculty members are leaders in building a sustainable future,” he said. “Everyone attending will no doubt learn something new or make a connection with a potential new collaborator at this conference.”