On the morning of October 15, the School of Environment at Tsinghua University hosted a joint event featuring the “TOP TALK” series and the Asian Universities Alliance (AUA) Asian Cultural Immersion Program. The event took place in Conference Room 209 of the School of Environment. Distinguished attendees included Zuo Jian’e, Associate Dean of the Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School (SIGS); Zhang Xiaoyuan, Assistant Dean of the School of Environment; and Duan Lei, Professor at the School of Environment. The event, chaired by Zhang Xiaoyuan, brought together over 30 faculty and student representatives from Tsinghua University and various AUA member institutions.

The venue of the event.

In his opening remarks, Zuo Jian’e extended a warm welcome to the young scholars participating in the program. He encouraged the students to use this opportunity to experience the unique institutional culture of Tsinghua, strengthen mutual learning, and broaden their global perspectives.

Zhang Xiaoyuan provided an overview of the School of Environment’s academic landscape. He invited the visiting students to immerse themselves in the School’s vibrant research atmosphere and expressed his hope that they would consider pursuing advanced studies at Tsinghua in the future.

Professor Duan Lei delivered a keynote lecture titled “Air Pollution Control: China’s Experiences and Lessons.” He reviewed China’s decades-long scientific research and policy interventions targeting severe sulfur dioxide and acid rain pollution, as well as complex atmospheric pollution. He provided a detailed analysis of the successful strategies that led to significant air quality improvements while addressing ongoing challenges. Furthermore, he outlined future pathways for the synergistic reduction of atmospheric pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions.

The lecture was followed by an interactive discussion session, where student representatives shared their insights with Professor Duan. The participants engaged in a spirited and profound dialogue on air pollution control and climate change mitigation, demonstrating the deep commitment of global youth to environmental sustainability.

The “TOP TALK” event served as a high-level academic platform for faculty and students from Tsinghua and the AUA, deepening mutual understanding and friendship within the environmental field. It has laid a solid foundation for broader and more profound collaborations in the years to come.