Anthropogenic impacts and the microbiome

Human activities over the years have resulted in alteration in ecosystem balance in different habitats and environments globally. Microbes are known to play key roles in maintaining ecosystem stability and life on Earth like nutrient cycling and climate change mitigation. Owing to these anthropogenic impacts and disruptions, microbial communities in different ecosystems respond in certain ways in terms of measurable changes in their structure, composition, functions, relative abundance and physiology to both the biotic and abiotic factors they encounter. These responses can serve as early signs and warnings that could help in developing sustainable solutions and strategies to address the growing global challenges associated with climate crisis. This session welcomes original research findings from studies exploring microbiome shifts, dynamics and fluctuations associated with environmental, human and chemical stressors in the biosphere. We also accept abstracts from studies on microbiome roles in pollutant degradation and transformation. Let’s showcase the benefits of microbiome interactions/activities/functions in environmental sustainability, climate action, and planetary health protection in furtherance of the United Nations SDGs!

Convenors
Chioma B Chikere, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Lisa Y. Stein, University of Alberta, Canada

Invited Speakers
Chioma B Chikere, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Rachael Lappan, Monash University, Australia
Lisa Y. Stein, University of Alberta, Canada