Geography is the study of the earth's surface, with humans at the centre. Its trans-disciplinary approach aids in developing a more comprehensive understanding of human-environmental issues. By clarifying the principles behind the dynamics of complex human-environmental interaction systems, we can better understand the critical challenges and transpire the potential opportunities for a sustainable future earth.
The complexity of interconnections between natural, technical, and social systems, as well as their spatio-temporal consequences for the planet’s life support systems, socio-economic development, and human well-being, provides fundamental challenges to sustainability.
Future Earth is a new multinational research initiative that promotes sustainable transitions. The IGU Thematic Conference, 2022 of Central University of Haryana, with the theme 'Sustainability, Future Earth, and Humanities: Opportunities and Challenges,' aims to draw attention to innovative, actionable, solution-oriented, fundamental and/or applied research efforts aimed at achieving global sustainability. The goals are to get into more depth on several geographical dimensions (broadly natural and social). However, in light of Future Earth endeavours to promote global sustainability through research and innovation, the conference aims to highlight the linkages between sustainability and the humanities. Without a comprehensive understanding of how humans adapt to cultural and environmental issues, significant progress toward sustainability is improbable. In this century, it will be very difficult for the global community to handle the key Anthropocene risks while also achieving and maintaining global human and ecological welfare. In order to gain a holistic understanding of the human and natural worlds, the Environmental Humanities bring together expertise from a variety of disciplines that span the major fields of science and inquiry. The systems approach aims to improve our understanding of complex Earth systems and human interactions across disciplines and to serve as the foundation for systems-based policies and strategies of sustainable development. Therefore, discourse on the disciplines included in the environmental humanities including geography, philosophy, history, literature, aesthetics, culture, traditions and religion shall be the key aspect of the conference. Nonetheless, these domains must have been used to reveal sustainable practices and knowledge across space and time. The conference will serve as a forum to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of leveraging modern digital capabilities to promote transformative reforms for a more sustainable and equitable future.
Using the past as a repository of human responses to socio-ecological challenges may assist us in managing the challenges of the present and future in an era of accelerated global change. Traditionally, Indian culture has placed a high value on sustainability. India's faith, culture, food habits, philosophy, and value system all contribute to the nature-as-nurture lifestyle.
The theme of the conference is also dedicated to the ongoing celebration of "Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav" by the government of India as it is centrally concerned with the wellbeing of mankind and nature in broader perspective. The deliberation during the event will certainly enlighten those who are in the forefront of safeguarding the world from obliteration.