The Association for Environmental Studies and Sciences (AESS) warmly invites participants including scholars, practitioners, policymakers, activists, and all engaged global citizens to contribute to the AESS 2025 Conference. Under the rallying theme of “Justice, Resilience and Urgent Optimism,” this conference aims to be a beacon of inspiration, action, and hope in confronting our planet’s environmental crises. We are AESS — a community committed to fostering resilience, justice, peace, and realistic optimism through environmental scholarship and practice.

Our 2025 conference welcomes ESS-related panel and presentation proposals for research studies of the environment – both natural and social sciences – as well as presentations related to pedagogy in primary, secondary, and higher education; research methods; and community engagement. To reflect our commitment to scholar and practitioner development and mentorship, we welcome presentations at all stages, from proposal to implementation to publication. Your voice is an important part of our community. So come build on our shared commitment to a just and equitable future, and collaborate on our efforts to support healthy environmental systems.

New to AESS?

AESS is a member-led scholarly and professional organization in Environmental Studies and Sciences (ESS). We are a welcoming community with a grassroots feel, and also a global leader in innovative interdisciplinary environmental research, teaching, and curriculum development. Our conferences feature a diverse mix of talks and workshops by scholars, activists, practitioners, and advocates, and include exciting opportunities for early career ESS scholars and students. AESS also hosts the Journal of Environmental Studies and Sciences (Springer Publishers) and a book series, the AESS Interdisciplinary Environmental Studies and Sciences Series (Springer Nature). Our annual conference provides opportunities to network, contribute your work, and participate in inclusive and empowering discussions about the past, present, and future of ESS.

The AESS 2024 Conference welcomes ESS-related panel and presentation proposals in the interdisciplinary sciences, social sciences, natural resource management, natural sciences, environmental humanities, sustainability, education, activism, and more.  To reflect our commitment to scholar and practitioner development and mentorship, we welcome presentations at all stages, from proposal to implementation to publication.  We will still be soliciting proposals in several areas of emphasis to facilitate member connections and collaboration, presentations and poster sessions, networking events and workshops. Each area of emphasis connects with broader commitments of AESS to social, environmental, and racial justice. Proposals beyond these areas are welcome. All relevant topics for presentations and panels will be considered.  

Come build on our shared commitment. Please join us!

– Susan Caplow
AESS President 2024-25