At the Institute of Molecular Biology of the Ministry of Science and Education of Azerbaijan, a scientific session entitled “Sustainable Urban Systems: Ecology, Technologies and Health Vectors” was held jointly by the Ministry of Science and Education, the State Agency for Science and Higher Education, the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences, and the Institute of Molecular Biology. The event was dedicated to the “Year of Urban Planning and Architecture” and the 13th session of the World Urban Forum.

The session brought together members of the Division of Biological and Medical Sciences of ANAS, the institute’s administration, scientists, specialists, young researchers and guests. Opening the event, Vice-President of ANAS and Acting Director of the Institute of Molecular Biology, Irada Huseynova emphasized that modern urban development today encompasses not only architecture and infrastructure, but also ecological security, biodiversity conservation, energy policy, climate change and public health. She noted that the UN Sustainable Development Goal 11 is specifically devoted to sustainable cities and communities, highlighting the global importance of urban sustainability.

In her speech, Irada Huseynova underlined the importance of urban flora and fauna, smart cities, green energy solutions, climate-resilient city models and the impact of the urban environment on human health. She also stressed that ecological and urban development policies have become one of the strategic priorities of Azerbaijan in recent years, particularly within the framework of the “green energy zones” concept promoted by President Ilham Aliyev.

The academician noted that systematic ecological development of cities in Azerbaijan originated from the initiatives of National Leader Heydar Aliyev, who promoted the creation of parks, green areas and improved water infrastructure in Baku. She also described the declaration of 2026 as the “Year of Urban Planning and Architecture” and Baku’s hosting of the 13th World Urban Forum as indicators of Azerbaijan’s growing international role in urban and environmental policy.

During the session, Corresponding Member of ANAS Elshad Gurbanov delivered a presentation on the role of urban flora and vegetation in landscaping and landscape design, emphasizing the ecological characteristics of the Absheron Peninsula and the importance of protecting endangered plant species. Other presentations focused on urban fauna and biodiversity conservation, smart cities and green energy integration, ecological safety, climate-resilient city models, and the impact of the urban environment on human health.

The speakers highlighted the necessity of multidisciplinary approaches in ensuring ecological balance, biodiversity conservation and sustainable urban management. Concluding the session, Irada Huseynova expressed confidence that the presentations and discussions would contribute to the development of new scientific approaches in ecological safety, smart technologies and public health in urban environments.