The School of Environment (SOE) at Tsinghua University hosted its signature “TOP TALK” series, welcoming an undergraduate delegation from Duke University on May 12th. This event served as a high-level academic bridge, bringing together nearly 100 faculty members and students from Tsinghua, Duke, and Duke Kunshan University (DKU) to explore the environmental dimensions of global sustainable development.
Venue of the TOP TALK event
Distinguished guests included Yang Bin, Vice Chairperson of the Tsinghua University Council; Cai Hongtao, Vice Chancellor of Duke Kunshan University; Meng Bo, Director of the International Cooperation Office; and Zhang Xiaoyuan, Assistant Dean of the SOE, who also moderated the session.
In his opening address, Yang Bin extended a warm welcome to the Duke delegation. He encouraged students from both institutions to broaden their international horizons and prepare to contribute “youth power” to the global stage of environmental governance, working collectively to safeguard the planet.
Cai Hongtao reflected on the long-standing partnership between the two universities in environmental education and research. He noted that international cooperation is essential in addressing global environmental crises. He expressed his hope that the TOP TALK would spark innovative thinking and inspire students to pursue impactful careers in sustainability.
Professor Li Jinhui, a renowned expert at the SOE, delivered a thought-provoking keynote speech titled “The Environmental Dimensions of Global Sustainable Development.” He mapped the intellectual evolution of the environmental movement—tracing the path from Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He provided a deep dive into current global priorities, including the implementation of the Basel Convention, international negotiations on plastic pollution and chemical management, and the critical role of the science-policy interface in reducing the global pollution burden. He concluded with a call to action, urging the younger generation to utilize interdisciplinary collaboration to accelerate the transition toward a green, circular economy.
The Roundtable Dialogue session culminated in a vibrant roundtable discussion moderated by Gao Youfu, a Tsinghua undergraduate student. Student representatives from all three participating universities joined Professor Li to share their insights on three core themes, such as the role of youth, cultural synthesis, and collaborative solutions.
Roundtable discussion session
The event not only facilitated a rigorous academic exchange but also strengthened the bonds of friendship between Tsinghua and Duke. It marks another milestone in the School of Environment’s commitment to building a world-class platform for international environmental education and research.
Group photo of event participants
