The first details have been released on SHV30, a scientific conference taking place in 2025 to celebrate Montserrat’s role in advancing the global understanding of volcanoes.
The Montserrat Volcano Observatory is hosting the event in collaboration with the University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre.
The first circular on SHV30, released on 22 November includes key deadlines, information about the conference themes and important event dates.
The document says the five-day event, centred on the theme, ‘Turning Magma into Momentum’, will take place from 14 to 18 July.
It will commemorate 30 years since 18 July, 1995, when “mud flowed and ash billowed from Soufrière Hills, darkening the Montserrat sky”.
Scientists, risk practitioners, decision-makers, Montserrat residents, and the diaspora are invited to reflect on lessons from the Soufrière Hills eruption and similar experiences from across the region.
During the conference, there will be a diverse range of activities, including traditional academic presentations, interactive discussions, online public events, and workshops.
The workshops will be held under the themes, ‘Advancing volcanic research and monitoring to reduce risk’, ‘Managing short and prolonged volcanic risks in a complex world’ and ‘Living with volcanic risk: Community, governance, and building a sustainable future after disaster’.
Field trips and cultural events will also showcase Montserrat’s unique charm to visitors, such as the Montserrat Calabash Festival, running from 20 to 27 July.
The reach and impact of SHV30 will be extended by fostering dialogue between experts and the community, through discounted rates for Montserratians.
Those interested in organising workshops or related activities can contact the SHV30 organising committee at shvinfo@mvo.ms
