Parallel thematic sessions will provide a focused space for presenting and discussing research within the main scientific areas of the conference. These sessions are designed to complement the plenary presentations by allowing a more detailed examination of specific topics, case studies, methodological approaches, and policy-relevant findings.
The parallel sessions will be organized around four thematic directions:
War and Soil SystemsThis session will focus on the impacts of war on soil systems, including contamination, degradation, loss of fertility, changes in soil functions, and the long-term consequences for ecosystems, agriculture, and human health.
War and Freshwater SystemsThis session will address the effects of war on rivers, lakes, reservoirs, wetlands, groundwater, and drinking water sources. Topics may include chemical and biological contamination, infrastructure damage, monitoring challenges, ecosystem risks, and water-related public health concerns.
War and Land-Use SystemsThis session will examine how war transforms land use, landscapes, agricultural territories, urban and peri-urban areas, protected zones, and post-conflict recovery planning. Special attention will be given to spatial change, environmental damage assessment, and land restoration priorities.
War and HealthThis session will explore the links between war-related environmental contamination and human health. It will cover exposure pathways, health risks, vulnerable populations, environmental epidemiology, and the need for integrated environmental and public health responses.
1.Andrew GibbsBeyond the TCDD Lens in Paritutu/New Plymouth, New Zealand: Invisible Phenoxy-Herbicide Co-Contaminants, Visible Developmental Signals, and Decision-Making under Incomplete EvidenceNew Zealand2.

The parallel thematic sessions are intended to support interdisciplinary dialogue between researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and institutions working on the environmental and health consequences of war. They will help identify knowledge gaps, compare research approaches, and contribute to the broader analytical framework of the conference.