Interview with Scientific Program chair: Peter van Bodegom

Peter van Bodegom is a Professor of Environmental Biology and Professor of Circular International Horticulture Systems within the Institute of Environmental Sciences. His research focuses on investigating biodiversity and ecosystem patterns to support transitions to a sustainable society. In addition, he is also the chair of the Scientific Committee of the 8th edition of the European Congress of Conservation Biology. 

“The 8th edition of ECCB presents an opportunity for the science and policy nexus to find common ground. Given the theme, the word ‘effective’ is not just about the fundamental understanding of nature protection, but also about its incorporation, application, and embedding. There are parallel sessions that address the scientific aspects related to governance, justice, social interactions, and indigenous knowledge, highlighting a perspective beyond natural science. The workshops and symposia, on the other hand, hold the objective to foster debate and exchange ideas, which can hopefully continue the conversation on nature conservation.” 

 “An opportunity for the science and policy nexus to find common ground”

“Our understanding is always increasing. In the last couple of years, we have seen a multitude of trends. A new wave of technology has expanded the field, providing new tools to enhance nature monitoring and management. There are several workshops and sessions at ECCB ‘26 dedicated to this aspect. ” 

“Not only is it critically important that we understand how nature works, but we also need to focus on translating it into optimal and best practices to predict the development of nature and biodiversity. We need active scientists at the interface of translating practices into acceptable, feasible, and management findings to the public. This demands a certain openness and understanding of how different worlds work to incorporate multidisciplinary action in effective conservation. One of our challenges when we come together in July is therefore understanding how to bridge the academic and non-academic together to increase the progress in effective conservation.” 

“We must fight to increase awareness and desire for biodiversity.”

“Nature protection is part of our society, yet there are always crises that demand our attention, which come at the cost of prioritising biodiversity conservation. We must fight to increase awareness and the desire for biodiversity to become an integral part of society. Therefore, we need researchers from all backgrounds and stages of their careers. I hope that the young researchers attending our conference share their insights into how they want to face the future. The scientific community must ensure that everyone is represented and heard to progress effective conservation.”