Sustainable Solutions for Health and WASH: Call for Research Abstract Competition to Gather Environmental Innovations
In celebration of #WorldEnvironmentDay2025, the Environmental Health and WASH research group at icddr,b is pleased to announce the Research Abstract Competition, a unique opportunity for undergraduate and graduate university students to explore, present and engage with the most pressing environmental challenges.
As the world grapples with escalating climate crises and environmental degradation, a new wave of hope rises in the hands of youth. In celebration of World Environment Day 2025, the Environmental Health and WASH Research Group at icddr,b is launching a Research Abstract Competition, inviting university students to address today’s most urgent environmental and public health challenges.
This unique in-person event is more than just a contest—it’s a platform. From plastic pollution to antimicrobial resistance, students are being asked to think critically and creatively about how to protect the planet—and its people.
A Platform to Address WASH, Climate, and SRHR
The abstract themes are wide-ranging—climate change, WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), toxicology, plastic pollution, and environmental innovations—all areas that deeply intersect with Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR).
Lack of access to clean water and safe sanitation directly affects menstrual health (MHM), pregnancy outcomes, and the dignity of adolescent girls and women. Similarly, environmental degradation and climate change disproportionately harm the most vulnerable—women, children, and marginalised communities—intensifying existing health inequities.
This competition becomes a critical stage for students who want to explore how environmental action can drive inclusive, rights-based public health strategies. Young researchers can submit projects that examine how sustainable WASH services improve maternal health, or how climate-resilient infrastructure can prevent gender-based violence in disaster-prone areas.
What’s in it for Students?
Students will not only gain academic exposure but also have the chance to present their work at icddr,b, one of the most prestigious research institutions in the region.
The top three abstract authors will receive letters of recognition, a travel award, and the opportunity to present in person at the Sasakawa Auditorium.
The event will feature both oral and poster presentations, creating space for theoretical, practical, and field-based research ideas to be shared and discussed.
How to Apply
The deadline to submit abstracts is 30 May 2025. Undergraduate and graduate students can submit via Google Form and email their abstract (PDF) to worldenvday25@icddrb.org. 
For abstract guidelines, eligibility criteria and submission instructions, visit:
https://www.icddrb.org/…/research-abstract-competition…
Source: icddr,b
