Martha Bolaños

Researcher, AGROSAVIA

Martha is a biologist from the University of Cauca, with a Masters and PhD in Agricultural Sciences - Soil Management and Conservation from the National University of Colombia. She is a Senior Ph.D. Researcher and Head of the Department of Sustainable Intensive Production at Agrosavia - Colombian Agricultural Research Corporation. She has chaired the FAO Soil Technical Intergovernmental Technical Group, leads the Commission 4.4 of the International Union of Soil Science (2023-2025) and currently chairs the Colombian Society of Soil Science.

Her work focuses on soil biorganic component processes, rhizospheric interactions and their relationship with fertility, evaluating sustainable practices that improve soil health and ecosystem services. Author of more than 60 articles, 17 books and 60 chapters, she has directed numerous theses and leads international research oriented to carbon sequestration, GHG emissions reduction and efficient management of integrated fertilisation, contributing to the sustainable development of the agricultural sector.

Slendy Diaz

Leader of Circular Economy, Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development of Colombia.

Slendy Díaz is a circular economist specialising in the application of circular economy models in the public and private sectors. Her experience includes the development of circular business models, eco-design, industrial symbiosis, consultancy and education, as well as the generation of specialised content. She is an Ambassador for the Circular Economy Institute and Premios Verdes for Latin America, and has been recognised with the National Award for Best Environmental Practices in the Construction Industry and the Regional Award for Best Environmental Experiences. She has advised government entities and companies in the implementation of sustainable strategies and currently leads circular economy initiatives from the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development of Colombia.