Recently, the 14^th International Conference on Environmental Science and Engineering 2024 (14^th ICESE 2024) was held in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China. The main goal of the conference was to promote research and development activities in environmental science and engineering, providing a platform for researchers, developers, engineers, students, and practitioners from both China and around the world to exchange scientific information. This year’s conference brought together many leading experts and scholars in the field of environmental science, including Professor Jan Baeyens, Chair of the Royal Academy of Engineering in the UK, Raf Dewil from KU Leuven, Belgium, and Kaimin Shih from the University of Hong Kong, China. We had the privilege of interviewing Dr. Bojing Yang, one of the keynote speakers, who shared with us his years of practical achievements and innovations in the field of environmental science.

Bojing Yang has firmly established himself as a leading figure in environmental science, particularly through his groundbreaking work in pollution control, resource recovery, and the development of innovative monitoring systems. His contributions have not only advanced environmental technology but also laid the groundwork for more sustainable and circular economic models, earning him widespread recognition both domestically and internationally.

Yang's journey began with his extensive background in environmental engineering, where he focused on addressing some of the most pressing environmental challenges, such as wastewater treatment, air quality management, and solid waste recycling. Over the years, he has been at the forefront of numerous projects aimed at reducing industrial pollution and enhancing resource efficiency. His expertise became particularly evident during his tenure at China Minmetals Corporation as a senior manager, where he led several initiatives that significantly improved the company’s environmental performance.

Advancing Environmental Technology with Pioneering Projects

Dr. Yang first introduced his technical achievements by using the project "Heavy Metal Pollution Monitoring and Early Warning System" as an example. This project, carried out in collaboration with China Energy Conservation and Environmental Protection Group, introduced an advanced system for real-time monitoring of industrial emissions. By employing sophisticated data analytics and wireless data transmission, the system could detect potential pollution incidents before they became critical, allowing for swift preventive action. This shift from reactive to proactive environmental management was a game-changer for the industry and has been recognized as a benchmark for pollution control technology across China.

Dr. Yang mentioned that his team also developed comprehensive guidelines on emergency response for environmental hazards, which have since been integrated into corporate safety protocols. These initiatives helped foster a safer and more sustainable operational environment at various industrial sites, including key projects under Minmetals' portfolio. Through these achievements, Dr. Yang played a pivotal role in transforming traditional industries by integrating clean technology solutions that align with the principles of the circular economy.

Recognition on the Global Stage

Dr. Bojing Yang said 2024 is a year of great achievement for him, as his technical expertise have earned him numerous accolades. In July, Yang was named an Influential Figure for Environmental Sciences of Asia by FigureAsia. This distinguished recognition celebrates his exceptional achievements and significant impact within the Asian community and beyond. As noted by FigureAsia, Dr. Yang's work has not only shaped the progress and innovation within environmental sciences but also served as an inspiration to peers and aspiring leaders across the continent. This accolade affirms his esteemed position as a visionary who embodies the spirit of our times and the promise of tomorrow.

Dr. Yang’s involvement in international forums further solidifies his standing. He was a key speaker at the "Forum on Building a Cleaner, More Beautiful World," where he shared insights on China's efforts in achieving carbon neutrality and highlighted how cutting-edge environmental technology can drive a circular economy. His presentations have consistently emphasized the need for cross-sector collaboration to tackle global environmental issues, encouraging partnerships that transcend national borders.

Leadership with National and International Impact

Looking back on nearly 15 years of research and dedication, Dr. Bojing Yang has always been a prominent leader in several influential organizations, both in China and on the international stage. As the manager of the Environmental Management Department at China Minmetals Corporation, he led projects that set new standards for environmental stewardship within the metal and mining industry. His work with Minmetals, a company known for its extensive global reach, has demonstrated how large-scale enterprises can effectively integrate sustainability into their core operations.

Dr. Yang also serves as Vice President of the Shanxi Environmental Industry Association, where he has been instrumental in shaping regional policies that promote cleaner production and sustainable practices. Under his leadership, the association has not only influenced policy at a national level but has also engaged in international collaborations, reinforcing its role as a bridge between government, industry, and academia. Furthermore, Dr. Yang's directorship at the Ecological Environmental Technology Research Center at Tsinghua University’s Shanxi Institute of Clean Energy has cemented his influence in the academic sector, where he mentors future leaders in environmental science and drives research on cutting-edge technologies.

Through these roles, Dr. Yang has been a vocal advocate for sustainability, not just within China but on a global platform. His leadership and collaborative approach have earned him a reputation as a key figure in global efforts to build a sustainable and circular economy.

Inspiring a Sustainable Future

As the world grapples with climate change and resource depletion, Dr. Bojing Yang’s efforts offer a blueprint for integrating environmental sustainability with economic progress. His pioneering projects in pollution monitoring, resource recovery, and sustainable industry practices have not only set new standards but also inspired broader adoption of circular economy principles. For his contributions, Dr. Yang’s name has become synonymous with innovation and excellence in environmental science, marking him as a key player in the global effort to build a cleaner, more resilient world.

Talking about future plans, Dr. Bojing Yang said his journey is far from over. As he continues to lead in the field, his work serves as an inspiration for those who seek to create a more sustainable future. His achievements underscore the power of combining cutting-edge technology with a deep commitment to environmental stewardship, setting the stage for a greener, cleaner, and more prosperous world.