Dear readers,
We are excited to bring you news of a significant event that promises to shape the future of polymers and their role in creating a safer and more sustainable world. The international conference, Polymers 2024—Polymers for a Safe and Sustainable Future, is set to be a groundbreaking gathering of scientists, researchers, and industry experts. Organized in collaboration with the MDPI open access journal Polymers, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, BIOMAC project, and Exelisis Co., this conference will take place in the vibrant city of Athens, Greece, from May 28 to 31, 2024.
Polymers have played an essential role in modern society since the inception of global synthetic plastics production in the 1950s. These versatile materials have permeated every facet of our lives, from packaging and construction to healthcare and transportation. However, their undeniable utility has come at a cost: the environmental impact. A staggering 79% of synthetic plastics have found their way into landfills, rivers, lakes, and oceans, causing irreparable harm to ecosystems. Microplastics, a byproduct of plastic degradation, have emerged as a pressing global concern.
Moreover, additives used in plastics, such as plasticizers, flame retardants, and stabilizers, have raised alarming questions about their impact on human health and the environment. This necessitates a radical shift toward environmentally friendly, non-toxic polymers that can be recycled or degrade rapidly post-use. This transition, while vital, presents a formidable challenge for scientists and manufacturers alike.
The conference, Polymers 2024, will delve into the latest advancements in polymer science, with a keen focus on crafting polymers that are safe for both human health and the environment. Key themes include green polymer chemistry, sustainable production processes, and the use of bioresources to create biobased and biodegradable polymers. Participants will also explore safe and sustainable-by-design polymers, using cutting-edge modeling, theory, and simulation to understand their chemical and physical properties for various applications.
Crucially, the conference will address the urgent need for clean, green, and efficient production processes. Experts will discuss life cycle assessments, risk assessments, decontamination techniques, environmental remediation, and innovative approaches to polymer recycling and reuse. In essence, Polymers 2024 offers a platform for scientists and researchers worldwide to present their work and innovations with a strong focus on sustainable development, prioritizing human well-being and the environment.
This event follows the successes of previous meetings, including Polymers 2018 in Barcelona, Spain, and Polymers 2022: New Trends in Polymer Science: Health of the Planet, Health of the People in Turin, Italy. Building on these achievements, Polymers 2024 aims to catalyze a transformative shift towards sustainable polymers that will shape a safer, more environmentally conscious future.
We extend our warm invitation to all scientists, researchers, and industry leaders passionate about the future of polymers to join us in Athens for this vital conference. Let's work together to redefine the role of polymers in creating a world that is both safe and sustainable.
See you in Athens!
Registration and more information here!