.png)
13th Conference Environmental Protection and Energy, December 5th 2025
Record-Breaking Numbers and Vital Conversations at EPAE 2025
The 13th International Conference on Environmental Protection & Energy (EPAE 2025), hosted on December 6th at the Faculty of Environmental Engineering and Energy at the Silesian University of Technology, proved to be an extraordinary event. This year’s edition set new records with over 300 participants and an impressive showcase of nearly 250 presentations and 60 posters.
Global Participation and Innovative Dialogue
Building on the success of previous editions, the 13th International Conference on Environmental Protection & Energy (EPAE 2025), held on December 5th at the Faculty of Environmental Engineering and Energy of the Silesian University of Technology, brought together nearly 600 participants from Poland and abroad. Representatives from China, Japan, Ukraine, Spain, Portugal, India, Kazakhstan, Ethiopia, and Nigeria joined the event, confirming EPAE’s growing international significance.
Building on the success of previous editions, the 13th International Conference on Environmental Protection & Energy (EPAE 2025), held on December 5th at the Faculty of Environmental Engineering and Energy of the Silesian University of Technology, brought together nearly 600 participants from Poland and abroad. Representatives from China, Japan, Ukraine, Spain, Portugal, India, Kazakhstan, Ethiopia, and Nigeria joined the event, confirming EPAE’s growing international significance.
An International Platform for Science and Collaboration
For over 13 years, EPAE has continued to evolve as an important platform for interdisciplinary dialogue, scientific exchange, and international cooperation. This year’s edition combined the creativity and energy of young researchers with the expertise of experienced scientists, creating a unique environment for discussions, research presentations, and networking opportunities.
As emphasized by prof. dr hab. inż. Krzysztof Pikoń, Vice-Dean for Infrastructure and Organization at the Faculty of Environmental Engineering and Energy and organizer of the conference, EPAE continues to grow both in terms of participation and the diversity of topics discussed, becoming an international space connecting young scientists, experienced researchers, industry experts, and public institutions.
The conference focused on the most pressing global challenges related to environmental protection, climate change, circular economy, and energy transition. Key topics included air quality, water and soil protection, biodiversity, renewable energy, green construction, recycling innovations, and energy efficiency.
The importance of the event was also highlighted by prof. dr hab. inż. Sebastian Werle, Vice-Rector for Research and International Cooperation of the Silesian University of Technology, who noted that EPAE strongly reflects current global discussions on climate change, new energy systems, and sustainable development.
Supporting Young Researchers
One of EPAE’s core missions remains the support of young scientists, doctoral students, and students. The conference created a valuable space for presenting research results, developing scientific and presentation skills, and building international collaborations.
One of the highlights of EPAE 2025 was the panel discussion “Silesia of Tomorrow – Youth, Innovation, Development”, moderated by prof. dr hab. inż. Ewa Brągoszewska. The debate brought together Halina Bieda – Senator of the Republic of Poland, dr Małgorzata Borysławska – Principal of the Academic High School in Gliwice, Elżbieta Modrzewska – Deputy Superintendent of Education in Katowice, Igor Śmietański – Vice-Chairman of the Board of the Upper Silesian-Zagłębie Metropolis, and dr Helena Jadwiszczok-Molencka representing the Marshal’s Office of the Silesian Voivodeship. The panel gathered numerous students and young participants actively engaging in discussions about the future of the region, education, and innovation.
Science and Artificial Intelligence
Another highly anticipated event was the panel “Future of Science in the Age of AI”, moderated by prof. dr hab. inż. Krzysztof Pikoń. The discussion featured prof. dr hab. inż. Wojciech Nowak, prof. IChPW dr hab. inż. Jarosław Zuwała, and retired colonel dr hab. inż. Tomasz Smal. Experts discussed the growing role of artificial intelligence in modern science, highlighting its applications in data analysis, process modeling, laboratory automation, and interdisciplinary collaboration, while also addressing ethical challenges and research responsibility.
From Discussion to Real Impact
EPAE 2025 demonstrated that interdisciplinary dialogue can lead to practical outcomes and long-term cooperation between academia, public institutions, local governments, and industry. The conference continues to strengthen the role of the Silesian University of Technology as an active partner supporting sustainable development, climate adaptation, and energy transition initiatives.
The dynamic growth of EPAE reflects not only increasing international participation, but also the conference’s expanding impact on science, education, innovation, and society.
