BFestival 2026 – The Power of Science for Biodiversity Conservation

 

On Thursday, February 12, 2026, the Biotechnical Faculty of the University of Ljubljana will host BFestival 2026 – The Power of Science for Biodiversity Conservation in the Prof. Dr. Janez Hribar Hall at Jamnikarjeva 101 in Ljubljana.

It is the faculty's main scientific event, dedicated to presenting research achievements and discussing current challenges in nature conservation.
BFestival is a traditional event of the Faculty of Biotechnology, which each year highlights one of the key areas of the faculty's research work. In 2026, the focus will be on biodiversity – a topic that is at the heart of European and national policies and increasingly at the center of social debates on the future of natural systems.
With the EU Biodiversity Strategy to 2030 and the Nature Restoration Regulation adopted in June 2024, the European Union has set ambitious targets to halt biodiversity loss and restore ecosystems. These include improving the status of habitats and species, reducing pesticide use, reversing the decline of pollinators, and strengthening nature-friendly land use practices. Achieving these goals requires a solid scientific basis, long-term monitoring of the state of nature, and effective integration of science and practice.

Slovenia also plays an important role in this regard, where a National Nature Restoration Plan (NNON) is being prepared, based on cooperation between various disciplines and inclusive decision-making processes. The Faculty of Biotechnology has extensive knowledge in the fields of nature conservation, agriculture, forestry, water, spatial planning, and fisheries, which is crucial for the successful planning and implementation of nature restoration measures.


The BFestival 2026 program will present a wide range of research topics – from molecular and microbial aspects of biodiversity, soil health, and underground ecosystems to ecological connectivity, natural resource management, and social aspects of nature conservation in agriculture. Special emphasis will be placed on the transfer of scientific knowledge into practice and understanding the relationship between nature conservation and sustainable land use.


The event will conclude with a round table discussion, where representatives of science, state institutions, and nature managers will discuss the challenges of biodiversity management in practice and the role of scientific findings in shaping effective policies and measures.


BFestival 2026 is intended for researchers, experts, students, decision-makers, and anyone interested in how science can contribute to the long-term conservation of biodiversity and sustainable development.


The event is free of charge, but registration is required by February 10, 2026, at the link.

 


You are cordially invited!