Empowering the next generation of environmental scientists: highlights from the 13th SETAC YES meeting in York, UK

Abstract The 13th Young Environmental Scientists (YES) Meeting, held in York, United Kingdom, from the 11-15th August 2025, continued the tradition of fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and professional development among early-career researchers in environmental sciences. Organised by the SETAC Europe Student Advisory Council (SAC), this student-led conference brought together 111 participants from 22 countries, offering a dynamic platform for scientific exchange across all different disciplines that exist within SETAC. Under the theme, “Between Grinding Gears—Students and Early Career Scientists Under Pressure”, the meeting featured over 100 scientific contributions, four interactive workshops and three keynote lectures that addressed scientific challenges as well as personal- and professional realities faced by students and early career scientists. Beside the academic program, there were also social events to bolster networking among peers, strengthening the community that defines the YES meetings and securing its role as a cornerstone for early-career engagement within SETAC. This commentary highlights the scientific and social achievements of the 2025 edition, the financial support that made it possible, and the collaborative spirit that brought it to life. As we look to the future, the continued success of the YES Meeting depends on the passion and voluntary engagement of students and early-career researchers, whose energy and commitment will continue to advance this unique, student-driven platform thriving as a space for growth, collaboration, and lasting friendships.