Scientists, policy-makers, and community leaders will meet at the World Lake Conference, 21st to 25th July in Brisbane, to tackle the most pressing challenges facing the world’s lakes. From hydrodynamic modelling of Laguna Lake in The Philippines to pioneering PFAS removal technologies, the conference highlights cutting-edge solutions and case studies from across the globe. Discover how lakes from Lake Biwa to Lake Toba are being managed, restored, and protected in the face of climate and land-use change, under increasing pressure for water resources. Be part of the global dialogue shaping the future of inland water sustainability.

Where science, community, and policy intersect. Featuring research on integrated water management from Indonesia to Australia, the event showcases actionable strategies for reservoirs in flood control, water quality improvement, and ecosystem restoration generally. Topic areas will include the revitalisation of urban lakes and innovations in nutrient and eutrophication management. Attending the conference will provide a platform for transformative ideas grounded in real-world impact, as well as the opportunity to exchange knowledge and collaborate on building a sustainable future for the lakes across the world.

WLC20 shines a spotlight on innovation—from eco-friendly filtration systems for polluted urban runoff to long-term ecological monitoring in the Murray-Darling Basin. As we mark the first World Lake Day designated by the United Nations, will provide impetus to protect and restore lakes, aligned with the United Nations Environmental Program. The conference provides an opportunity to hear from global experts, including grassroots leaders in lake stewardship, and explore solutions that blend Traditional Knowledge, cutting-edge science, and inclusive governance to address water security and environmental justice. Join us in celebrating and safeguarding lakes worldwide.

Our lakes are under threat—but there is hope. The conference hopes to brings together a worldwide network committed to lake restoration and resilience. Learn how countries are using nature-based solutions, advanced hydrological modelling, and community partnerships to combat pollution, manage floods, and adapt to climate change. With more than 150 compelling presentations and inclusive workshops, the World Lake Conference is a gateway to the latest thinking on sustainable lake management. Find out about how healthy lakes – our sentinels of change – mean a healthier planet.

This year marks the first-ever World Lake Day, officially recognized by the United Nations and celebrated on August 27—a milestone that traces its roots to the very first World Lake Conference in Shiga, Japan, in 1984. The 20th World Lake Conference held this year from 21st to 25th July in Brisbane proudly honours showcases decades of progress in lake conservation and launches new collaborations for future action. Celebrate this historic occasion as we spotlight global efforts to protect, restore, and reimagine lakes as vital ecosystems for people and the planet.

The World Lake Conference, 21st to 25th July in Brisbane is proud to welcome two distinguished plenary speakers: H.E. Mr. Hanif Faisol Nurofiq, Minister of Environment and Forestry of Indonesia, and Hon. Mosese Bulitavo, Minister for Environment and Climate Change of Fiji. Their presence underscores the conference’s global importance and commitment to collaborative action on lake sustainability, climate resilience, and ecosystem restoration. These leaders will share national and regional perspectives on freshwater stewardship and the role of lakes in achieving climate and development goals. These voices are shaping our environmental policy at the highest levels and demonstrate the significance of the World Lake Conference as a centrepiece for improving policy about lake conservation across the globe.