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News > Events News > More Than a Conference: Why 13ICG Is Worth the Journey

More Than a Conference: Why 13ICG Is Worth the Journey

2 Jul 2026
Written by Gabriella Vita
Events News

Every four years, the global geosynthetics community comes together for one extraordinary event—the International Conference on Geosynthetics (ICG).

From September 13–17, 2026, the world's leading engineers, researchers, manufacturers, consultants, contractors, asset owners, academics, and young professionals will gather in Montreal, Canada, for the 13th International Conference on Geosynthetics (13ICG). Hosted by IGS North America on behalf of the International Geosynthetics Society (IGS), this flagship event promises an inspiring week of technical excellence, knowledge sharing, innovation, and global collaboration.

The World's Premier Geosynthetics Conference

The International Conference on Geosynthetics is more than just another conference—it is the IGS's flagship event and the world's largest international gathering dedicated exclusively to geosynthetics. Held only once every four years, it provides a unique opportunity to explore the latest research, technologies, and engineering practices shaping the future of our industry.

This year's theme, "Legacy, Evolution & Revolution in Geosynthetics," reflects the significant changes taking place across infrastructure, sustainability, climate resilience, material innovation, and engineering design. It challenges attendees to consider not only where our industry has come from, but also where it is headed.

A Technical Program Designed to Inspire

The 13ICG Technical Committee has developed an exceptional program featuring more than 250 technical presentations, 6 plenary sessions, prestigious keynote lectures, panel discussions, Technical Committee sessions, Professional Development Courses, networking events, and an international exhibition.

Highlights include:

  • The prestigious Giroud Lecture, Bathurst Lecture, and Rowe Lecture
  • 6 plenary sessions exploring the future of infrastructure and geosynthetics
  • Panel discussions addressing emerging challenges and opportunities
  • Technical sessions covering transportation, mining, environmental protection, hydraulic engineering, reinforcement, barriers, sustainability, and much more
  • Special sessions organized by IGS Technical Committees
  • Lunch & Learn sessions and networking opportunities
  • Professional Development Courses on Sunday, September 13
  • An international exhibition featuring leading manufacturers, suppliers, and innovators from around the world

Whether your interests are in design, installation, manufacturing, research, or asset management, you'll find sessions tailored to your professional interests.

Learn from the Best

One of the greatest strengths of 13ICG is the opportunity to hear directly from internationally recognized leaders who have helped shape the geosynthetics industry.

The conference's keynote program combines the Society's most prestigious lectures with thought-provoking plenary discussions examining how geosynthetics are transforming infrastructure design, construction, sustainability, service life, and long-term value. These sessions are designed not only to share knowledge but also to inspire new ideas and encourage collaboration across disciplines.

Build Your Global Network

For many attendees, some of the most valuable conversations happen outside the lecture hall.

13ICG brings together professionals from every corner of the world, creating countless opportunities to:

  • Exchange ideas with international experts
  • Meet future collaborators and research partners
  • Connect with manufacturers and suppliers
  • Discover emerging technologies
  • Engage with IGS Technical Committees
  • Network with Young Members and established industry leaders
  • Strengthen relationships across academia and industry

Whether you're attending your first ICG or your fifth, you'll become part of a truly global community committed to advancing geosynthetics.

Who Should Attend?

Whether you're an experienced industry leader or just beginning your career, 13ICG offers valuable insights, practical knowledge, and networking opportunities for professionals across the geosynthetics industry.

๐Ÿ‘ท Engineers

Discover innovative design approaches, technical solutions, and real-world case studies that can be applied to your projects.

๐Ÿ— Contractors & Installers

Learn about the latest construction techniques, installation best practices, and emerging technologies from projects around the world.

๐Ÿญ Manufacturers & Suppliers

Showcase your innovations, connect with customers and industry leaders, and explore the latest market trends shaping the future of geosynthetics.

๐Ÿ’ผ Consultants

Gain valuable technical knowledge, exchange ideas with international experts, and strengthen relationships with clients and collaborators.

๐ŸŽ“ Researchers & Academics

Present your work, explore the latest research, and collaborate with leading universities and institutions from across the globe.

๐ŸŒฑ Students & Young Professionals

Build your network, learn from industry leaders, discover career opportunities, and become part of the next generation of geosynthetics professionals.

๐Ÿ› Asset Owners & Government Agencies

Explore innovative solutions that improve infrastructure resilience, sustainability, durability, and long-term performance.

Discover the Latest Innovations

The international exhibition will showcase the latest products, technologies, equipment, and services from leading organizations across the geosynthetics industry.

Visitors will have the opportunity to meet exhibitors, explore new solutions, discuss real-world engineering challenges, and discover innovations that are shaping the future of infrastructure worldwide.

Discover Montreal

Hosting 13ICG is the vibrant city of Montreal, Canada's cultural capital and one of North America's most welcoming destinations.

A unique blend of European charm and North American energy, Montreal offers visitors world-class restaurants, historic architecture, beautiful parks, museums, shopping, and a thriving arts scene—all within a highly walkable downtown.

Explore the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal, admire the iconic Notre-Dame Basilica, enjoy panoramic views from Mount Royal, or experience the city's renowned cafés and diverse culinary scene. September is one of the best times to visit, with pleasant temperatures and a vibrant calendar of festivals and outdoor events.

For those traveling internationally, 13ICG offers the perfect opportunity to extend your business trip into an unforgettable vacation.

Invest in Your Future

Attending 13ICG is more than participating in a conference.

It is an investment in your professional development, your network, and your understanding of the technologies shaping the future of civil and environmental engineering.

Whether you are looking to:

  • Stay ahead of emerging industry trends
  • Learn from internationally recognized experts
  • Share your own experiences
  • Discover new products and technologies
  • Build valuable professional relationships
  • Be inspired by groundbreaking research

13ICG provides an unmatched opportunity to do so alongside colleagues from around the world.

Why Attend 13ICG?

Because opportunities like this only come around once every four years.

Whether you're looking to expand your technical expertise, discover innovative solutions, reconnect with colleagues, grow your professional network, or simply be inspired by the latest developments in geosynthetics, 13ICG is where the global community comes together.

Be part of the conversations that will shape the future of our industry.

๐ŸŸฆ Register Today

 

Exclusive Offer for 13ICG Registrants

Take Home the IGS Handbook for Just $40 USD

As an exclusive benefit for 13ICG registrants, attendees have the opportunity to purchase the IGS Handbook for the special price of just $40 USD.

The IGS Handbook is a valuable technical resource, bringing together expert knowledge, practical guidance, and best practices from across the geosynthetics industry. Whether you're a practicing engineer, researcher, consultant, manufacturer, contractor, or student, it's an essential addition to your professional library.

How to take advantage of this exclusive offer:

โœ” Pre-order your handbook during the 13ICG registration process.
โœ” Bring proof of your conference registration to the IGS Booth.
โœ” Pick up your handbook during the conference.

Please note: This exclusive $40 USD offer is available only to registered 13ICG attendees and is valid for pre-orders placed during conference registration.

๐ŸŸฆ Register for 13ICG and secure your copy today.

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