The 1st Caspian Sea Conference on Regional Cooperation and Leadership for Environment, Sustainability, and Climate Adaptation will take place on 17–18 October at Nazarbayev University, Astana, Kazakhstan.

The conference will bring together governmental authorities, industry representatives, internationally renowned researchers, and other key stakeholders.

It will feature keynote presentations and expert contributions from government, academia, and industry, addressing hydro-climatic and anthropogenic drivers of Caspian Sea decline, pollution and environmental degradation, risks associated with sea-level decline, adaptation and risk-management strategies, intergovernmental and regional cooperation mechanisms, and the science–policy–industry interface for effective environmental governance and sustainable development in the Caspian region.
ABOUT THE CONFERENCE
Conference Focus
The conference addresses the decline of the Caspian Sea driven by hydro-climatic change and anthropogenic pressures, including pollution and unsustainable resource use, and the growing environmental, economic, and societal risks associated with falling sea levels.

These interconnected challenges threaten ecosystems, coastal communities, critical infrastructure, and regional economic stability, underscoring the need for coordinated regional and intergovernmental action.
Conference key details
Dates
October 15-16, 2026
(in-person attendance)
Venue
Nazarbayev University, Astana
Language
English
Registration fee
Registration until September 9th
Free of charge
Coffee break
Included

Oral & Poster presentations
Abstract submission
The conference will focus on the following key themes:
  • Hydro-Climatic and Anthropogenic Drivers
    Changes in climate, precipitation, evaporation, river inflows, and water management practices, alongside human activities influencing Caspian Sea water levels.
  • Pollution and Environmental Degradation
    Impacts of industrial development, energy production, urbanization, and transboundary pollution on water quality and ecosystem health.
  • Risks of Sea-Level Decline

    Consequences for biodiversity, fisheries, coastal settlements, public health, ports, energy infrastructure, and transportation networks.
  • Adaptation and Risk Management

    Policy, technological, and ecosystem-based solutions to enhance resilience, reduce vulnerability, and support sustainable development in the Caspian region.
  • Intergovernmental and Regional Action
    International cooperation mechanisms, legal and institutional frameworks, joint monitoring systems, and coordinated emergency response capacities.
  • Science–Policy–Industry Interface
    Strengthening collaboration between scientists, governments, and industry to translate research findings into actionable policies and investment decisions.
Programme
INVITED SPEAKERS
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Learn more
Day 1
PANEL DISCUSSIONS
PANEL 1:
Governing Sea Level Decline in the Caspian Sea: Policy Challenges and Responses
Time and date: TBC
Venue: TBC

This panel brings together government and ministerial representatives to discuss national policy responses to sea level decline in the Caspian Sea. The discussion will focus on regulatory frameworks, adaptation planning, inter-agency coordination, and the role of scientific evidence in public decision-making.
Dr. Jessica
Neafie
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PANEL 2:
Industry, Infrastructure, and Technical Responses to Environmental Change
Time and date: TBC
Venue: TBC

This panel convenes industry representatives and technical experts to examine how environmental change is affecting infrastructure, operations, and investment in the Caspian Sea region. Topics include industrial risk management, engineering adaptation, technological innovation, and collaboration between industry and public authorities.
Dr. Jessica
Neafie
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PANEL 3:
International and Regional Cooperation in Caspian Environmental Governance
Time and date: TBC
Venue: TBC

This panel explores intergovernmental and institutional cooperation among Caspian littoral states and international organizations. It will examine existing agreements, coordination mechanisms, and pathways for strengthening collective responses to shared environmental challenges.
Dr. Jessica
Neafie
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PANEL 4:
Environmental Risk, Ecosystem Protection, and Climate Adaptation
Time and date: TBC
Venue: TBC

This panel focuses on environmental risk assessment and ecosystem protection, drawing on scientific research and policy perspectives. Discussions will address monitoring systems, biodiversity impacts, and climate adaptation strategies aimed at enhancing ecological resilience in the Caspian Sea region.
Dr. Jessica
Neafie
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Call for Papers

Key Dates for Speakers

Abstract submission: 31 May 2026

Notification of abstract acceptance: 15 July 2026

Committees
  • Dr. Emil Bayramov
    emil.bayramov@nu.edu.kz
  • Dr. Jessica Neafie
    jessica.neafie@nu.edu.kz
  • Prof. Randy Hazlett (Dean)
    randy.hazlett@nu.edu.kz
Registration
Nazarbayev University
School of Mining and Geosciences
6 block, 53 Kabanbay Batyr Ave
Astana city, Republic of Kazakhstan
010000