The activities of the environmental conference: “The Damascenea Iris, Together to Preserve Our Identity and Our Natural Heritage” was launched today. It is organized by the Faculty of Science, Damascus University, in celebration of the World Environment Day and the World Day of Biodiversity and Environment, and in cooperation with the National Union of Syrian Students and the Arab Center for the Studies of Arid Zones and Arid Lands "ACSAD", in the presence of Ministers of Higher Education and Scientific Research and Agriculture.

 Since the onset of conflict in Syria in 2011, several heritage sites have suffered partial or complete destruction. The ancient city of Palmyra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980, was placed on the List of World Heritage in Danger in 2013, alongside five other Syrian heritage sites. Between 2015 and 2017, Palmyra experienced the loss of nearly 40% of its historic buildings and landmarks.

 Researchers and postgraduate students from Syrian universities, the Atomic Energy Authority, the Energy Research Centre, the Syrian Investment Authority, the Ministry of Electricity, and the Faculty of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering participated in the Second International Renewable Energy Conference.

 Counseling and Psychological Support Unit opens for the first time in Damascus University, in cooperation between the Faculty of Medicine and the Faculty of Education.