Written by: Tiina Ynnilä, UEF

Puijo Summit is a future-oriented expert event in Kuopio, Finland, focused on the holistic ‘One Health’ theme. Celebrating its fifth anniversary on 12 May 2026, the event welcomes the University of Eastern Finland as a co-organiser for the first time, representing ᴇNᴀBʟS.

The theme of this year’s event is water. Life cannot exist without it—but can true well-being exist without healthy waters?

First, we will reflect on the relationship between humans and water. After that, we will continue our journey to small water bodies and springs, and learn about the significance of microplastics and the “browning” of lakes for water quality. In the afternoon, we will expand our perspectives on nature work and the role of water ecosystems in our well-being, and at the end of the day, we will hold a discussion on concrete water protection work.

UEF’s ᴇNᴀBʟS team has invited two specialists from the University of Eastern Finland to speak about their water-related research:

• Professor Taru Peltola (Naturecultures studies) will speak about Finns’ water relationship in times of crisis
• Postdoctoral Researcher Tuomo Soininen will talk about microplastics in Lake Kallavesi.

In addition to researchers, the event will feature presentations by authors and representatives from companies, the government, the city, and various associations.

The venue is in Kuopio City Theatre, and the event will be held in Finnish. After the summit, cooperation continues more informally with a sauna and a swim in Lake Kallavesi in Luoto. Registration is open until 6 May 2026.