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| 12 Aug 2026 | |
| Written by Gaby Vita | |
| Igs Conferences |
What makes the International Conference on Geosynthetics so special? We asked four IGS leaders, President Sam Allen, President-Elect Daniele Cazzuffi, Vice President Edoardo Zannoni, and Immediate Past President Chungsik Yoo, to share why they're attending 13ICG, what they're most excited about, and their advice for first-time delegates.
Although each perspective is unique, one message comes through loud and clear: 13ICG is about far more than technical presentations. It's about people, ideas, and building the future of geosynthetics together.
"13ICG brings together everything that matters for our profession in one place, world-class technical presentations, time with clients, and the opportunity to meet with IGS leaders from around the world. It's also one of the few occasions where we hear perspectives from outside our field on the broader environmental and infrastructure challenges we all face."
"I have attended every International Conference on Geosynthetics since 1982, and each one has strengthened both my professional knowledge and my international friendships. Montréal is especially meaningful to me because I have worked closely with the Organizing Committee over the past four years and have fond memories of collaborating there with pioneers of our discipline decades ago. International collaboration remains one of the greatest strengths of our profession."
"The ICG is where many of the technical papers that shape engineering practice are first presented. Every conference has its own character, influenced by the host country, and Canada's expertise in mining and infrastructure promises an exceptional technical program."
"13ICG is the most important global gathering in our field. It brings together researchers, practitioners, and industry leaders while providing a valuable opportunity to reconnect with colleagues and continue supporting the global IGS community."
Despite their different backgrounds, all four leaders highlighted the technical program as one of the biggest reasons to attend.
Sam is looking forward to experiencing technical papers being presented live and having the opportunity to discuss them directly with the authors.
Chungsik is especially excited for the keynote lectures, including the Giroud Lecture by Prof. Jie Han, as well as the opportunity to explore the latest innovations in the exhibition hall.
Edoardo is particularly interested in the mining sessions, the United Nations Sustainable Development presentation, and keynote lectures by Prof. Jie Han, Pietro Rimoldi, and Prof. Craig Benson.
For Daniele, however, one special event in Montréal stands above everything else.
"This year marks the 40th anniversary of the International Geosynthetics Conference football (soccer) match, a tradition that began at the 3ICG in1986 in Vienna. It remains a unique part of our community, bringing delegates together through friendship, sportsmanship, and shared history."
Although each leader offered different advice, they all agreed on one thing—get involved.
"Plan your schedule before you arrive, but leave room for spontaneous conversations. Get up early, stay up late, and make the most of every networking opportunity. You can always catch up on sleep when you get home."
"Be curious. Attend everything from the Short Courses to the Technical Visits, ask questions, and remember that you can learn from everyone, from internationally recognized experts to first-time delegates."
"Study the program before you arrive, attend complete technical sessions instead of moving from room to room, visit the exhibition, and don't be afraid to introduce yourself to the speakers. You'll be surrounded by many of the world's leading experts."
"The IGS community is incredibly welcoming. Don't hesitate to introduce yourself, the people you meet here may influence your career for years to come."
The recommendations extend well beyond the conference venue.
Daniele encourages delegates to rent a bicycle and explore the famous Mont Royal circuit, which will host the UCI Road World Championships shortly after 13ICG.
Chungsik recommends experiencing Montréal's unique blend of culture, food, architecture, and creativity.
Sam encourages delegates to attend two special sessions focused on the future of geosynthetics and sustainable infrastructure.
Meanwhile, Edoardo believes the most memorable moments won't necessarily be found on the official schedule.
"Don't miss the conversations. The papers will always be available afterward, but the discussions during Q&A sessions, coffee breaks, in the exhibition hall, and at social events are what make the conference truly special. Those connections can shape careers just as much as the technical program."
We finished by asking each leader to describe 13ICG in just one sentence.
Sam Allen:
"A true must-attend event for anyone passionate about the future of geosynthetics."
Daniele Cazzuffi:
"A unique human and professional experience—not to be missed."
Edoardo Zannoni:
"Where the future of geosynthetics comes together."
Chungsik Yoo:
"The world's premier gathering to learn, connect, and shape the future of sustainable geo-engineering."
Whether you're presenting research, attending your first conference, reconnecting with colleagues, or discovering the latest innovations in geosynthetics, 13ICG offers something for everyone.
As these four IGS leaders demonstrate, the conference is much more than a technical program. It's where ideas are exchanged, friendships are built, careers are shaped, and the future of our profession comes together.
We look forward to seeing you in Montréal this September.
If you haven't already, be sure to register here: https://www.xcdsystem.com/icg/member/index.cfm
Wednesday 12 August 2026 is the last day for the early-bird registration !
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