Many universities are playing a key role in fostering a better understanding, and in catalysing the action needed to handle climate change. By means of research initiatives, teaching programmes and community outreach, there are many on-going efforts being undertaken by higher education institutions round the world, aimed at addressing the many challenges posed by a change climate. Based on the relevance of this topic, and the usefulness of more interactions among organisations working in this area, there is a perceived need for specialist events, where the academic community may come together and discuss and present their work in this key area.