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Bundesamt für Naturschutz

Biodiversity & Development: Delivering nature-positive development pathways

International Academy for Nature Conservation
Conference
Date, time
08.06.2026 (Mon) 18:00 
 
13.06.2026 (Sat) 09:00 
Venue
International Academy for Nature Conservation Isle Vilm
Organiser
Federal Agency for Nature Conservation (BfN), Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), KfW Development Bank
Head
Nada Rohloff (BfN), Sandra Gmelin (KfW), Barbara Lang (GIZ)
Target group
Closed group of participants
Event language
English
Biodiversity is the foundation of resilient societies. Healthy ecosystems provide essential services such as food, water and climate regulation. However, biodiversity loss continues at an alarming rate, threatening not only ecosystems but also global economic and social stability. Achieving the goals of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) requires integrated approaches that link conservation with sustainable development. Development cooperation plays a crucial role in supporting countries in harmonizing effective biodiversity conservation with local economic development and human well-being. This seminar explores key concepts, policies, and strategies to strengthen conservation efforts while navigating economic, social, and governance dimensions. Participants will discuss opportunities and challenges in applying instruments to integrate biodiversity conservation into sectoral policies, planning processes, and global frameworks. Through case studies and interactive formats, the seminar will foster exchange and mutual learning on practical solutions for biodiversity-friendly development.

Participants

The target audience of the seminars are practitioners working at the interface of international cooperation, biodiversity conservation, and climate change, such as experts from ministries and affiliated organisations in partner countries of German international cooperation, GIZ, KfW, BMUKN, BMZ, consulting companies, NGOs, and universities. Participation is limited to 20 participants for the seminar “Biodiversity & Development: Delivering nature-positive development pathways” and to 25 participants for the seminar “Biodiversity and Climate – Integrated Solutions for a Resilient Future”.

Objectives

Participants will

  • Gain an overview of the global biodiversity agenda, including frameworks such as the GBF and key policies.
  • Expand their knowledge on conservation approaches, from protected areas to landscape-level strategies and nature-based solutions.
  • Understand the role of governance, rights-based approaches, and stakeholder participation in conservation and sustainable development.
  • Explore biodiversity finance solutions and mainstreaming approaches to navigate synergies and trade-offs between biodiversity conservation and economic development.
  • Discuss opportunities and challenges for international/development cooperation in supporting biodiversity conservation at different levels.
  • Learn from each other’s experience.

Contents

The following topics will be addressed through inputs, case studies, group work, discussions and a field trip:

  • Global frameworks and commitments related to biodiversity conservation.
  • Instruments and approaches to biodiversity conservation: From protected areas to ecosystem restoration, sustainable use and nature-based solutions.
  • Mainstreaming biodiversity into sectoral policies and development planning.
  • Governance, participation, and equity in conservation initiatives.
  • The role of financial and market-based instruments in supporting conservation efforts.
  • Current trends, instruments, and best practices in supporting partner countries.

Costs

1st seminar (9 - 13 June), arrival Monday, 8 June: approx. 600 € per participant (including full board and lodging)

The final fee can only be set by mid-May 2026. A late cancellation of your registration within 30 days prior to the start of the seminar will imply a fee of about 500 € in case no substitute can be found. There are no reductions possible. Before applying, please ensure that all costs (incl. travel) will be covered by the applicant or his/her organisation.

How to apply

Please apply by completing and submitting the attached application form. Kindly note that there are separate application forms for each seminar.

Deadline for applications: 28 February 2026
Confirmation of acceptance will be sent by 15 March 2026.

Contact at BfN

Nada Rohloff
Division I 2.1 International Academy for Nature Conservation and Event Management
+49 38301 86-122
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