A special session sponsored by SUPARCO focused on space science, remote sensing, and their applications in environmental sustainability and geohazards

A special session sponsored by SUPARCO focused on space science, remote sensing, and their applications in environmental sustainability and geohazards. The session featured keynote addresses by Dr. Amjad Ali, Director General of SPARC Islamabad, and Dr. Said Rahman, Director of SPARC Peshawar, who discussed the role of space technology in resource management and climate monitoring. Additionally, Dr. Mateeul Haq, General Manager of MHR&A SACRED, and Dr. Zahir Ali, Deputy Chief Manager of SUPARCO, presented their research and insights on geospatial applications in environmental assessment.
Another session explored climate resilience, geotechnical studies, and sustainable innovations. Prof. Dr. Laura Zucconi from the University of Tuscia, Viterbo, Italy, presented her research on the ecology of Antarctic soil fungi and the impact of climate change on unique ecosystems. Mr. Muhammad Shahab, presenting remotely from King Saud University, Saudi Arabia, captivated the audience with his research on the spatiotemporal evolution of water bodies in the Tarbela Dam region, discussing drought impact and propagation mechanisms using Google Earth Engine and emphasizing the potential of satellite-based technology in monitoring water bodies and drought effects.
Several other invited speakers presented their research on a range of topics relevant to sustainable resource utilization. Prof. Dr. Bushra Khan from the University of Peshawar delivered an insightful talk on environmental studies, while Dr. Zahid Rauf from the Pakistan Forest Institute (PFI), Peshawar, discussed climate reconstruction using dendrochronology. Mr. Subhan Ullah from NCEG, Peshawar, presented a comparative geotechnical study between limestone and dolostone from the Upper Indus Basin, Pakistan. Dr. Muhammad Waseem from UET Peshawar highlighted the importance of seismic zoning maps for building codes in Pakistan, emphasizing their relevance for sustainable infrastructure planning. Mr. Shahab Alam from Bahria University, Islamabad, discussed the assessment of marble wastewater and its impact on River Kabul in Khairabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, drawing attention to industrial pollution in the region.
With a diverse range of presentations and thought-provoking discussions, the 4th International Conference on Sustainable Utilization of Natural Resources has commenced on an inspiring note. The event provides a crucial platform for sharing knowledge, fostering collaboration, and advancing research to address the critical challenges facing the sustainable management of natural resources.