Biodiversity, the unique variety of life on our planet that underpins our economy and well-being, has sharply declined during the last century, already exceeding what environmentalists call a “planetary boundary” (Steffen & Al., Science, 2015). Indeed, the World Economic Forum listed ‘biodiversity loss and ecosystem collapse’ as one of the top 10 global risks in 2015. Among the causes of such decline, agriculture is considered one of the most substantial, and agricultural biodiversity loss is usually linked to unsustainable intensification of agricultural activities on the one hand, and the abandonment of farming on the other.

In light of the EU’s commitment to achieve its biodiversity targets for 2020, this international symposium will provide an invaluable opportunity to engage with the debate on biodiversity at EU level and scrutinise the future of sustainable agriculture in Europe. It will also enable delegates to analyse different methodological approaches to sustainable agriculture and biodiversity preservation and get to know recent technological developments that could foster sustainability. The event will bring together representatives from the EU and national institutions, the private sector and the civil society to share best practice and provide a broad range of perspectives.

Overview:

• Session 1 - Updating the EU Legal Framework on Agriculture and Biodiversity
• Session 2 - Understanding Biodiversity and the Role of Agriculture in its Loss  
• Session 3 - Assessing Different Approaches to Wildlife Conservation: Land Sparing
• Session 4 - Assessing Different Approaches to Wildlife Conservation: Land Sharing 

Delegates will:

• Discuss the latest developments in the EU policy framework on agriculture and biodiversity
• Evaluate the progress made in the implementation of the Action Plan for nature, people and the economy
• Analyse suitable strategies to prevent loss of ecosystems services
• Learn about the economic importance of preserving biodiversity
• Gain insight into environmentally harmful practices in agriculture and how they can be prevented
• Debate on different methodological approaches to wildlife conservation in agriculture
• Explore recent technological developments for sustainable agriculture
• Get to know practical examples of alternative farming systems
• Broaden their network and build constructive partnerships with stakeholders interested in reconciling agricultural production and biodiversity preservation.