NetworkNature Annual Conference 2024
This year’s NetworkNature Annual Conference, taking place on September 25th, 2024, will focus on the theme “Busting Myths: People with Nature.” Hosted in Brussels, this engaging event aims to challenge misconceptions surrounding ecosystem restoration and management. Through insightful discussions, innovative presentations, and interactive activities, participants will explore the transformative role of Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) in reversing biodiversity loss and fostering harmonious relationships between nature and people.
A call to bust myths and embrace synergies
The conference will revolve around the myths that need to be busted in practice, research, policymaking, and business to unlock the potential of NbS. By addressing these myths, the event will highlight that restoring nature is not merely a luxury but a critical necessity—one that brings significant economic, environmental, and social benefits.
Participants will gain valuable insights into how NbS foster synergistic relationships between nature and people. Real-world case studies, research advancements, governance frameworks, and personal experiences will showcase inspiring approaches that integrate people with nature for mutual benefit.
A key focus will be the widespread myth that people and nature are inherently in conflict. This misconception will be debunked through powerful examples and experiences where people and nature thrive together, showcasing how NbS identify and enhance these synergistic relationships.
Agenda overview
The event’s agenda is structured to address three critical dimensions:
- Regenerating Nature Actions
- Presentations and panels on soil, water, and land use management.
- Discussions on paradigm shifts and collaborative landscape approaches.
- Governance and Policy
- Exploring how governance frameworks can serve both people and nature.
- Panels dedicated to understanding “Nature for People” and “People for Nature.”
- Economy and Valuation
- Debunking myths about the underestimated value of nature.
- Panels on economic models that prioritize and work alongside nature.
A mix of plenary sessions, interactive debates, and artistic contributions will create an enriching and thought-provoking experience. Additionally, the agenda includes parallel sessions, site visits, and an exhibition of NbS case study posters during the lunch break.
Contributing to the conversation
Although the open calls for myth-busting contributions and poster exhibitions have now closed, the event’s collaborative spirit remains at its core. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage actively in discussions, propose new myths to bust, and learn from the diverse range of experiences and knowledge shared by speakers and fellow participants.
Key sessions
Morning Sessions:
- Welcome and keynote speeches.
- Panels on regenerating nature through innovative soil, water, and land use practices.
Midday Governance Discussions:
- Exploring governance frameworks that support both ecological restoration and community well-being.
- Presentations on “Nature for People” and “People for Nature.”
Afternoon Economic Insights:
- Panels on revaluing nature and integrating nature-positive economic practices.
Concluding Activities:
- A session on using comic strips to bust myths.
- Guided site visits to showcase real-world NbS applications.
Join the NetworkNature in busting myths
By fostering a deeper understanding of the interplay between people and nature, the NetworkNature Annual Conference 2024 aims to inspire transformative change. Participants, including policymakers, researchers, innovators, and community leaders, will leave equipped with the tools and knowledge to advocate for NbS and challenge outdated perspectives.
For further details, including the full agenda and list of speakers, please visit the official event page. Together, let us continue the journey towards a future where people and nature thrive in harmony.