Latest news
Read the latest news from the Centre for Sustainable Materials Research and Technology
UNSW SMaRT Centre Director Professor Veena will be a speaker at the free UNSW’s 2025 SDG Showcase event highlighting efforts supporting the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), on 28 October 2025.
Much of the UNSW SMaRT Centre's work supports various SDGs, as revealed in this summary story, through its research, programs and innovative waste and recycling technologies.
From living seawalls protecting marine life, to SMaRT's world-first plastic waste recycling and electric cargo drones, the projects reflect our global impact in action.
More than 60 exhibitors will participate with stalls, short talks, presentations and hands-on demonstrations, giving you a practical look at how the University is driving change through the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This free event is open to students, staff and the community and offers a unique opportunity to meet the researchers behind the work, find out how they are making an impact and discover ways to get involved.
“The SDG Showcase is a celebration of the creativity, passion and expertise of our students and staff,” said Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Attila Brungs.
“It’s a chance to experience how UNSW is tackling some of society’s biggest challenges first-hand. I invite everyone to come along, explore and be inspired by the world-leading innovation happening across our community.”
If you’re curious about our changemaking work in human and marine health, climate action and AI, this is an unmissable event. Join for the whole day or drop in to any session that sparks your interest.
Speakers include:
- SMaRT Centre Founder and Director Scientia Professor Veena Sahajwalla
- AI expert Scientia Professor Toby Walsh
- Director of the Australian Human Rights Institute Professor Justine Nolan
- Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS) CEO Dr Cassandra Goldie AO.
"This event brings to life the collaboration and innovation of our community, championing real progress towards a better future,” said Vice-President, Societal Impact, Equity & Engagement, Professor Verity Firth.
“I encourage students and staff to take up this powerful opportunity to be challenged, to be inspired, to see, experience and interact with the groundbreaking work happening every day here at UNSW.”
UNSW is a global leader for impact and sustainability, ranked 11th worldwide. The SDG Showcase reflects that recognition through a series of engaging sessions and activities on campus.
Schedule
Read the full program and register your interest now to secure your place.
If you have any questions about the SDG Showcase, please contact the team at EDIComms@unsw.edu.au.