On 5 June, on the World Environment Day, a 24-hour online marathon took place within the framework of the International Year of Basic Sciences for Sustainable Development (IYBSSD 2022/2023). During 24 hours, leading specialists were discussing how science and scientific results promoted the better development of world for everyone. The Joint Institute, as a co-organizer of IYBSSD 2022/2023, contributed to the programme of the event. Special Representative of the JINR Director for Cooperation with International and Russian Scientific Organizations Boris Sharkov was a moderator of the JINR section at the marathon.

Among other issues, its participants discussed the reduction of environmental pollution by plastic, consequences of global warming. Experts from around the world discussed how biophysics could improve human health and agriculture, how large-scale scientific facilities became more eco-friendly, what contribution physics could make to environmental research and preservation of cultural heritage objects.

Marina Frontasyeva, Directorate Advisor for applied research and innovations of the Laboratory of Neutron Physics JINR, delivered a lecture “Modern Physical Methods in Environmental Research for the Benefit of Humankind” at the marathon on behalf of the Joint Institute. Using physical methods, ecologists, for example, monitor the relocation of chemical elements in ecosystems, determine the content of various elements in samples, analyse air pollution. Physical methods can help understand ecosystems and assess changes in them, which can lead to the improvement of mechanisms for protecting nature.

In addition, during the broadcast, its organizers showed three-minute videos on large projects of JINR such as the Baikal-GVD neutrino telescope, research projects in the field of proton therapy, as well as quark-gluon plasma and superheavy elements. In addition, viewers of the online marathon could watch short videos with young scientists of JINR.

Marathon recordings are available via the link.