The 9th International Symposium on Earth Resources Management & Environment (ISERME 2025) was held on 19 - 20 September at the Centre of Excellence for Water and Sanitation, Sri Lanka. Organized by the Department of Earth Resources Engineering of University of Moratuwa, alongside Division of Sustainable Resources Engineering, Hokkaido University and Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Tohoku University from Japan, the symposium marked a continued partnership focused on advancing technical and environmental solutions in the field of earth resources. The event brought together researchers, engineers, and academics from Sri Lanka, Japan, and other countries to exchange knowledge.
Opening Remarks and Keynote
The inauguration featured remarks by Dr. LPS Rohitha, General Chair of ISERME; Dean, Faculty of Engineering, University of Moratuwa; Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University of Moratuwa; and Head of the Division of Sustainable Resources Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Hokkaido University. Eng. Samitha Jayakody, CEO of Resources Development Consultants (Pvt) Ltd, served as Chief Guest and spoke on the importance of sustainable development in Sri Lanka’s resource sector. Professor Jun-ichi Kodama of Hokkaido University delivered the keynote address, presenting research on rock slope deformation using field measurements and numerical simulations. His talk highlighted the role of integrated methods in improving geological safety and infrastructure planning. The session concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by organizing committee co-chair, Dr. ABN Dassanayake.
Technical Sessions
The symposium included five themed sessions:
- Innovations Beneath and Above the Surface
- Building a Sustainable Earth Through Technology
- Rethinking Resources for a Sustainable Future
- Innovation for Exploration and Restoration
- Resilience Engineering for a Sustainable Earth
Thirty-seven papers were presented, covering topics such as mining, tunnel engineering, geochemistry, groundwater studies, mineral processing, ocean resources, and disaster management. The sessions provided a platform for sharing applied research and discussing practical approaches to resource management.
Networking and Field Visit
Participants gathered for a networking dinner at Ramadia Ran Mal Holiday Resort, Moratuwa, promoting informal exchanges among professionals and students. On the second day, attendees visited the Bogala Graphite Mine in Aruggammana, gaining direct insight into Sri Lanka’s mineral extraction practices.
Looking Ahead
ISERME 2025 reinforced the value of international collaboration in addressing resources related engineering challenges. By combining academic research with field-based learning, the symposium supported ongoing efforts to improve resource management strategies and promote sustainable development.
For more details, visit the https://uom.lk/ere/iserme2025.
Professor Jun-ichi Kodama of Hokkaido University delivers the keynote address on rock slope deformation, emphasizing integrated methods for geological safety and infrastructure planning at ISERME 2025.
Dr. LPS Rohitha, General Chair of ISERME 2025, delivers the inaugural address, emphasizing collaborative innovation and sustainable practices in resources industry across regional and international platforms.
International and local presenters share insights at ISERME 2025, promoting cross-border collaboration in resource management.
General chair presents a token of appreciation to Professor Jun-ichi Kodama in recognition of his keynote address at ISERME 2025.
Head table at ISERME 2025, from left to right: Dean, Faculty of Engineering, University of Moratuwa; Keynote Speaker; Chief Guest; Deputy Vice Chancellor, University of Moratuwa; and General Chair of ISERME 2025.
Participants at ISERME 2025 engage with presentations and discussions, reflecting a mix of academic, industry, and student representation.
ISERME 2025 delegates during their guided technical tour of the Bogala underground graphite mine.