GCRO researchers participate in the 8th Annual Gauteng Environmental Research Symposium (GERS VIII)
On 16th and 17th September 2026, GCRO researchers Dr Samiksha Singh, Dr Samkelisiwe Khanyile, and Akosua Awuah participated in the 8th Annual Gauteng Environmental Research Symposium (GERS VIII) at the Cedarwoods Conference Centre in Sandton. Hosted by the Gauteng Department of Environment and the University of Johannesburg’s PEETS, the event convened leading policymakers, researchers, and practitioners to tackle urgent environmental challenges and co-create practical solutions for sustainability in Gauteng. The theme, “Advancing Sustainability Transitions and Resilience in Gauteng through Adaptive Governance,” set the tone for ambitious, action-oriented engagement throughout the symposium.
GCRO researchers: Dr Samiksha Singh and Akosua Awuah
The first day opened with remarks from the Gauteng MEC for Environment, Honourable Ewan Botha, and a keynote address by the regional representative of the International Water Management Institute, Dr Henry Roman, before a plenary for discussions on resource efficiency, the circular economy, waste valorisation, and adaptive governance. Industry-focused case studies demonstrated successful waste-reduction efforts, and community-centred initiatives highlighted practical landfill-diversion strategies.
On the second day, GCRO’s Dr Samiksha Singh facilitated a plenary on Eco-Industrial Innovation, Water Resilience, and Biodiversity Stewardship. The session explored urgent water management challenges, El Niño vulnerabilities, and successful removal of aquatic invasive species to improve water quality. Notably, participants celebrated the collaborative creation of a database of community-based organisations, a vital step to scaling nature-based solutions across Gauteng. Later sessions on just energy transition, air quality, and climate resilience underscored the critical importance of equitable energy access and proactive management of renewable infrastructure, aiming to reduce risks and foster sustainable livelihoods.
Dr Samiksha Singh facilitating a plenary on Eco-Industrial Innovation, Water Resilience, and Biodiversity Stewardship
The symposium concluded with stakeholders uniting around a clear set of priority actions, forging stronger links between evidence, governance, and implementation. The atmosphere was one of shared purpose and optimism, as participants left with renewed commitment to advancing environmental sustainability and resilience in Gauteng.