January 2003 Environmental Conference at NUI Galway to explore wide-ranging programme of topi

'ENVIRON 2003', the 13th Irish Environmental Researchers Colloquium, will take place this week in NUI Galway, from 8th –10th January. The conference, which is hosted by the University's Environmental Change Institute (ECI), will address methods of environmental management as well as approaches being taken by those who have responsibility for environmental policy.

Keynote speaker at the conference is the noted broadcaster and author, Mr Eamon de Buitléar who will give a talk on Wednesday, at 7.30 p.m., entitled "Life in the Wild". The conference, which will be officially opened by Professor James Browne, Registrar, NUI Galway, will look at all aspects of the environment including Agriculture and Forestry; Marine and Coastal Research; Ecosystem Management and Waste Management.

More than 300 delegates are expected to attend the conference, which will also include contributions from environmental stakeholders in local government and industry. It will feature over 100 oral presentation and 80 poster presentations and bring together virtually all scientific disciplines engaged in environmental research in Ireland. The event is a unique forum for the exchange of new data, views and ideas between basic researchers and professionals engaged in environmental management and protection, as well as providing an opportunity to explore environmental issues in a broader societal and economic context.

Some of the topics that will be addressed by the speakers include Public Attitudes towards Waste Management; Environmental Law in relation to Fisheries Policy; Environmental Monitoring and Analysis; and aspects of Ecosystem Management and Biodiversity. 'Environ 2003' is the annual meeting of the Environmental Sciences Association of Ireland (ESAI).

Information: Máire Mhic Uidhir. Press & Information Officer. Tel: 091 750418