Professor Shauhrat Chopra Showcases Global Resilience and Innovation at ICRS 2026

Prof. Shauhrat Chopra, Associate Dean (Undergraduate Studies) and Associate Professor in the School of Energy and Environment (SEE), recently participated in the 26th International Conference on Resilient Systems (ICRS 2026), held at Delft University of Technology. The conference centered on the theme " Resilience in an Age of Disruption".

Prof. Chopra delivered two research presentations addressing critical infrastructure and sustainability challenges:

• National Resilience for Critical Mineral Value Chains: This research introduced a dynamic framework to assess vulnerabilities in the global copper supply chain. By analyzing production capacity and international trade networks, the research identified significant risks—including potential supply shortfalls of up to 35% , proposed "safe-to-fail" strategies to safeguard the green energy transition against geopolitical disruptions.
• Equitable Resilience for Social Sustainable Urban Infrastructure: Using Hong Kong’s MTR system as a case study, this research challenged "one-size-fits-all" resilience planning. By integrating social equity into network theory, the study revealed how disruptions impact different demographic groups uniquely. For instance, while older populations show higher robustness due to diverse travel patterns, they face greater challenges during recovery due to limited walking abilities, highlighting the need for tailored station management and inclusive design.

During the event, Prof. Chopra also showcased the "FIRST" initiative, a project endorsed by UNESCO. Over the past decade, the project has translated research into real-world solutions, such as cooling coatings, solar films, and water disinfection, to enhance the quality of life for underprivileged communities.

Prof. Chopra received a special mention during the conference award ceremony for his contributions. These achievements highlight SEE’s ongoing commitment to advancing global sustainability. By bridging the gap between innovative research and practical application, the School continues to drive impactful solutions for resilient systems worldwide.