From May 13 to 16, the University of Aveiro is hosting the European Conference of the Alternet Network, dedicated to the theme “Achieving Transformative Change for Biodiversity.” Organized in partnership with CESAM – Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, the event aims to be a leading forum for discussing scientific and policy responses to the global biodiversity crisis.
The conference brings together academics, policymakers, representatives of European institutions, and professionals from various sectors, fostering dialogue between science and policy at a critical moment for the implementation of the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030.
The program includes scientific sessions and plenaries on emerging topics such as:
- Advanced biodiversity monitoring using new technologies;
- Nature-based solutions to address climate change;
- Integration of biodiversity in the agriculture and forestry sectors;
- The role of citizen science in data collection and public awareness;
- Development of transformative public policies and inclusive governance models.
Keynote speakers include renowned international researchers such as:
- Ingrid J. Visseren-Hamakers (Radboud University), expert in global environmental governance;
- Vera Helene Hausner (UiT The Arctic University of Norway);
- Alex Franklin (Coventry University), scholar in transformative governance;
- Toke Thomas Høye (Aarhus University), ecologist;
- Sebastian Villasante (University of Santiago de Compostela), expert in ecological economics.
From the Portuguese context, Alexandra Aragão (University of Coimbra), an expert in environmental law, and Gilles Doignon from the European Commission, offering the institutional perspective of the European Union, are also participating.
This event reinforces the role of the University of Aveiro and CESAM in promoting sustainable solutions grounded in scientific research. CESAM stands out for its “One Health” approach, which recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, actively contributing to the development of effective public policies.
More info here.