The SCI IEX (Cambridge University, UK) and the Japanese International Conference in Ion Exchange (ICIE) are the two major ion exchange events worldwide. These unique meetings provide the opportunity for manufacturing and service companies, end users, and researchers to present papers and discuss applications and developments in the theory and practice of ion exchange and adsorbents.

Tackling climate change, reversing nature loss, and achieving 'net zero' require good decision-making and engagement with complex social, economic, and environmental challenges. A revolution in the design and application of ion-exchange materials is taking place as they emerge as vital tools to meet these challenges. IEX 2024 will be the focus of this pioneering work.

The conference covered new materials, their study by surface and structural techniques, and their application in fields as varied as bioprocessing and biomanufacturing, sequestration of carbon dioxide, catalysis, and green chemistry, and in many areas of pollution control and water treatment.