Nature FIRST Conference Programme
Join us for two days of inspiration, collaboration, and action at the Nature FIRST Conference on 25–26 June 2025 at Ouwehands Dierenpark in the Netherlands.
Our carefully curated agenda brings together leading conservationists, researchers, policymakers, and innovators to tackle the most pressing challenges in biodiversity protection. Expect keynote speeches from global experts, interactive panel discussions, and hands-on workshops designed to spark new ideas and foster meaningful partnerships.
Explore the full agenda below and get ready to be part of shaping the future of conservation.
Agenda
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09:00 – 09:30 | Welcome Coffee
09:30 | Welcome Words – Nature First Executive Directors from Sensing Clues, Sustainable Scale-up Foundation and DotSpace + Guests
09:45 | Keynote Speech – Fred Stolle: Deputy Director of Forest at World Resources Institute
10:15 | Panel Discussion: From Tools to Action – Scaling Conservation Solutions for Global Impact
Panelists: Jan Kees Schakel (Sensing Clues), Boris Hinojo (3eData) + TBA
Moderator: Linda van Duivenbode11:00 – Workshops (3 Breakout Sessions):
1 - Wildlife Forensics: Human-Wildlife Conflict
Summary: TBA
Host: Claire Gwinnett (University of Staffordshire) + WWF Ukraine
2 - Monitoring Landscape Changes: Environmental Time Series
Summary: “Explore how Sentinel-2 satellite data and smart tools can help you track landscape changes over time. Learn to assess environmental interventions, compare past and present conditions, and take control with an intuitive web app.”
Host: Melanie Arp (Geospatial Data Scientist at Sensing Clues) + CorrelAid
3 - From Theory to Operational Use: Policy, Training and Resources
Host: Linda van Duivenbode (DotSpace)
12:00 | Lunch
14:00 – Workshops (3 Breakout Sessions):
1 - Wildlife Forensics: Using Forensic Science to Fight Wildlife Crime
Summary: TBA
Host: TBA
2 - The Road Towards Predicting Sturgeon Migration
Summary: “Combining research on a digital twin for Beluga sturgeon with GIS expertise has put sturgeon migration on the map. Wrap it all into a web application, and you have a promising tool to support the sturgeon conservation unit in the Danube Delta, Romania. Join us for a glimpse into the collaborative process – and a chance to try out the tool yourself.”
Host: Danube Delta Research Institute and Sensing Clues
3 - The Challenge of Engaging Target Audiences
Summary: “An interactive workshop on how to use communication as a tool to encourage human-wildlife coexistence and raise awareness by valuing local knowledge.”
Host: Anna Susteric (Coexistence.life) and Kacia Rutkoŭskaja (Author at DotSpace)
15:00 | Networking Coffee
16:00 | Panel Discussion: Co-creating the Future – Partnerships for Biodiversity Preservation
Panelists: Martin Spitholt (Sustainable Scale-up Foundation) + TBA
Moderator: Menno Valkenburg (Sensing Clues, Project Manager Nature FIRST)19:00 | Conference Dinner and Party
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09:00 – 09:30 | Welcome Coffee
09:30 | Keynote Speech – Gladys Kamasanyu (Chief Magistrate with the Uganda Judiciary)
10:00 | Panel Discussion: Cracking the Case – Forensic Innovations in Combating Wildlife Crime
Panelists: Claire Gwinett (Forensics Professor at University of Staffordshire), Andro Vos (CEO of Wildlife Forensic Academy) + Gladys Kamasanyu (Chief Magistrate Uganda Wildlife Court), Ondrej Koporec (Chair of EnviCrimeNet ) and Greg Simpson (Wildlife Forensic Academy)
Moderator: Sonja van Meerbeek (Sustainable Scale-up Foundation)10:30 – Workshops (Breakout Sessions):
1 - Wildlife Forensics - TBA
2 - Digital twinning in ecology: how could a real-time model help you?
Summary: “Discover how digital twins could be applied to your own work! With demos of the Crane Radar and Human-Bear Conflict Radar to get you thinking about the possibilities, in this collaborative session we will develop ideas for new digital twins based on your own needs and data.”
Host: Anna Davison (PhD candidate at Wageningen University) and dr. Koen de Koning (Professor at Wageningen University)
3 - Do More with Data in Conservation & Knowledge Graph: monitoring, evaluation, federated part
Host: Albin Ahmeti (Knowledge Engineer at Graphwise) and Jan-Kees Schakel (Founder Sensing Clues)
11:30 – Workshops (3 Breakout Sessions):
1 - Wildlife Forensic Toolkit: Practical Tools for Rangers & Law Enforcement
Summary: "Discover how a new forensic toolkit, developed with input from rangers, helps secure wildlife crime scenes. Learn from student research on real cases and share your insights to improve future tools."
2 - Habitat Mapping Model: A Step-by-Step Approach to Creating Useful Habitat Maps
Summary: "This workshop is designed for anyone interested in understanding how habitat maps serve as key tools for ecosystem and species conservation. Throughout the session, we will explore the essential tools and methodologies for creating accurate and effective habitat maps. We will also look at how monitoring changes over time can help track and protect habitats."
Host: Boris Hinojo (Head of Technology 3eData)
3 - Market Drivers for Nature Conservation (Serious Game Approach)
Summary: "In this workshop, participants will collaborate to develop sustainable market strategies that balance limited resources with conservation objectives of nature areas, effectively addressing real-world challenges and bottlenecks."
Host: Linda van Duivenbode (Senior Consultant DotSpace)
12:30 | Lunch
14:00 – Workshops (Breakout Sessions):
1 - Bear Risk Radar and Forensics
Summary: TBA
Host: WWF Romania, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sensing Clues and University of Staffordshire
2 - Combining Technologies for Conservation
Summary: TBA
Host: Jan-Kees Schakel (Founder Sensing Clues), Smart Parks and Hack the Planet
3 - Market Drivers for Nature Conservation (Serious Game Approach)
Summary: "In this workshop, participants will collaborate to develop sustainable market strategies that balance limited resources with conservation objectives of nature areas, effectively addressing real-world challenges and bottlenecks."
Host: Linda van Duivenbode (Senior Consultant DotSpace)
15:00 | Networking Coffee
16:00 | Closing Session: The Next Decade of Conservation – Vision, Strategy, and Collaboration
17:00 | Closing Reception
Overview of Topics
Workshops
At the Nature FIRST Conference, we’re moving away from passive presentations and focusing on interactive, hands-on learning. Our workshops are designed to engage participants actively—offering practical skills, fresh perspectives, and tools you can take home and apply in your own conservation efforts.
Led by experts in wildlife forensics, biodiversity monitoring, and community engagement, these sessions dive into real-world applications and cutting-edge innovations that will help rangers on the field, park managers and owners to make the most of their conservation efforts, and generate new projects for scientists and NGO’s.
The workshops will run multiple times throughout the conference, giving you the flexibility to join when it suits you best. You can find the full agenda, including who’s leading each session and where they’ll take place, in the detailed schedule above.
Whether you’re a researcher, policymaker, or practitioner, these workshops will leave you with actionable insights, meaningful connections, and strategies to drive real impact.
Interactive Panel Discussions
The Nature FIRST Conference is all about fostering meaningful dialogue and collaboration. Our panel discussions are designed to go beyond traditional talks, encouraging active participation and the exchange of ideas between experts, practitioners, and attendees.
We will be bringing together leading voices from conservation, policy, research, and innovation who will be covering topics including:
scaling conservation tools for global impact
co-creating partnerships for biodiversity preservation
exploring forensic innovations to combat wildlife crime
Each panel offers a unique opportunity to engage with thought leaders, ask questions, and gain insights you can apply in your own work.
Networking and Matchmaking Sessions
Our goal is to ensure that by the end of the conference, you’ll have established valuable connections and identified opportunities for new partnerships that can make a lasting impact on the conservation community. That’s why we’ve designed dedicated networking and matchmaking sessions to help you connect with like-minded professionals, potential partners, and experts from across the globe.
To further foster connections, we’ll be hosting a conference dinner and party after the first day of the event. This informal setting will give you the chance to connect on a different level, away from the conference rooms, and build relationships in a relaxed atmosphere. Share ideas, exchange experiences, and have fun while making the most of this unique networking opportunity.
Exhibitions and Fair
Explore our exhibition spaces where conservation-related organisations will showcase their cutting-edge work, highlighting real-world solutions to today’s most pressing environmental challenges. These exhibits are designed to spark conversations, foster collaboration, and inspire action.
Among the highlights of the exhibition:
Outdoor Wildlife Crime Scene: Step into a mock crime scene and apply forensic skills to unravel the mystery of wildlife crime.
Outdoor Innovation Test Zones: Experience hands-on innovations that are transforming conservation practices on the ground.
“Talk to a Wolf” Activity: Engage in an immersive experience designed to raise awareness about the complexities of human-wildlife conflict.
Speakers and Presenters
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Dr Jan-Kees Schakel
Founder of Sensing Clues, Scientific Director of the Nature FIRST Horizon Europe Research & Innovation Programme.
“Nature FIRST is a testament to innovation through collaboration. Together, we turn wild spaces into safe havens!!
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![Man with a beard in a purple shirt standing outdoors with a green background.]()
Boris Hinojo Sanchez
Founder of 3eData, developer and project manager of Horizon Europe’s Nature FIRST, with expertise in technology-driven conservation.
“Remote sensing and local knowledge combined are key to nature conservation: let's team up at the Nature FIRST conference to take action. “
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![Woman smiling in a knit hat and outdoor jacket, sitting on a grassy cliff overlooking the ocean.]()
Dr Claire Gwinnett
Forensic scientist and professor at University of Staffordshire, specialising in forensic fibre analysis and environmental forensics, with a strong focus on applying forensic science to wildlife crime investigations.
“It’s time to prioritise wildlife crime investigations and prevention in all of its forms – from terrestrial to marine; this conference will start the next steps of this journey and bring together those who can make a real change”
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![Man in a suit with glasses standing outside with arms crossed]()
Andro Vos
Founder and CEO of the world's first Wildlife Forensic Academy, which trains conservationists to tackle wildlife crime.
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![Person in a blue polka dot blazer with glasses smiling against a white background.]()
Gladys Kamasanyu
Chief Magistrate with the Uganda Judiciary and currently head of the Uganda Wildlife Court. Gladys is also the founder of Help African Animals, a nonprofit saving lives through influencing the human mindset and behaviour towards wildlife protection.
“The poor pay more for wildlife trade”
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![Smiling person with long hair in front of greenery.]()
Judith Dekkers
Founder and Director of Kumbe Biodiversity, an organisation based in Tanzania providing transparent and innovative solutions for biodiversity monitoring.
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![A woman smiling, wearing a pink shirt and sunglasses on her head, standing indoors with a neutral background.]()
Linda van Duivenbode
Independent consultant with a national and EU policy and business background. Expertise in translating innovation into operational applications through market research and development – bridging science and technology with market and policy.
“Let’s bring scientific and technological advancements into operational market and policy applications for biodiversity conservation.”
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![Young woman with medium-length brown hair, wearing a black top, smiling softly against a white background.]()
Kacia Rutkoŭskaja
Content Consultant & Social Media at dotSPACE foundation, media coordinator at Nature FIRST
“When we talk about biodiversity and nature conservation, we should also talk about how we communicate these topics. It’s not just about the messages or channels we use, but also about understanding the context we’re working in.“
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![Woman in winter clothing smiling in front of a small stone building with prayer flags, set in a snowy mountain landscape.]()
Anna Sustersic
President of PAMS Foundation Europe and project director of Coexistence.life, a project to the study and implementation of communication as a tool to facilitate acceptance and coexistence with wildlife.
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![Person smiling outdoors with a park setting in the background.]()
Melanie Arp
Geospatial Data Scientist at Sensing Clues, Developer of geospatial tools for the Nature FIRST Horizon Europe Research & Innovation Programme, with a focus on co-creation projects.
“Mapping wild spaces to support the boots on the ground in protecting the natural environment.”
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![Bald man with a goatee wearing a red sweater outdoors with greenery in the background.]()
Marian Mierla
Expert in remote sensing and GIS, Designer of multi-scale spatial databases and techniques for digital map creation.
“Holistic thinking and multi-scale action are essential in natural systems.”
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![Person with long brown hair standing outdoors in a grassy landscape with hills in the background.]()
Anna Davison
PhD Candidate at Wageningen University, developing digital twins to tackle human-wildlife conflict and support endangered species conservation.
“Working collaboratively to apply ecological models to real-world conservation issues and produce actionable information.”
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![A person with glasses and a pink scarf stands by a lake with mountains in the background. The setting is calm with clear skies and greenery.]()
Fred Stolle
Director impact for Land and Carbon Lab, Global forest Watch at the World Resources Institute (WRI). Geographical Information System (GIS) and Remote sensing specialist.
“This conference is a unique opportunity to bring together digital tools—both global and local remote sensing—policymakers, and participatory conservationists to enable data-driven decisions that support the protection and sustainable management of natural lands for both people and nature.”
Do you want to be part of the Nature FIRST conference?
Secure Your Spot Today!
What’s Included in the Conference Package:
Full access to two days of workshops, discussions, and co-creation opportunities, where you’ll have the chance to give your input and shape the dialogue on key conservation issues. This conference offers space for everyone to contribute and learn. Whether you're representing an NGO, a research institution, or another organisation, your presence will enrich the dialogue and foster connections that last beyond the conference.
Lunches, coffee breaks, and a special dinner will be provided, ensuring you’re nourished while engaging with the community.
Access to Ouwehands Dierenpark and a tour to connect with wildlife and gain further inspiration for your work.
Supporter Options:
Early Bird Supporter Package: €250 (Limited availability)
Standard Conference Package: €295
We understand that supporting the full price of the conference supporter package might not be possible for everyone. That's why we offer 60% discounted tickets for those who need financial support. Simply complete our application form for a discounted ticket, and we will review requests on a rolling basis
Please note that discount codes can be redeemed on the payment page. Limited tickets available due to venue capacity.
Free Admission Application
Nature FIRST consortium members and their guests are eligible for free admission (up to 10 tickets per partner). Applications are subject to verification of eligibility.
If you qualify, please complete the application form:
All attendees will receive their tickets via email one week before the event.
Partnership options: We are currently exploring tailored opportunities for organisations to get involved in this dynamic, interactive environment—whether through knowledge partnerships, sponsorships, joint initiatives, or other collaborative efforts. By joining us as a partner, you’ll have the chance to host a booth, lead interactive workshops, or contribute to the exhibition, sharing your valuable knowledge and real-world solutions with a professional and public audience. Reach out to nalini@sustainablescale-up.com for more information.
Supporters and Partners of this Conference
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Bears in Mind
Partner
Bears in Mind is a Dutch foundation dedicated to protecting bears in the wild and rescuing those in captivity who suffer from poor conditions. For over 30 years, the organisation has improved bear welfare through rescue efforts, education, and nature conservation. Known for its sanctuary Het Berenbos in Ouwehands Dierenpark, Bears in Mind provides a safe haven for traumatised bears and works to create a future where humans and bears coexist harmoniously.
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Ouwehands Zoo Foundation
Partner
Ouwehand Zoo Foundation (OZF) is dedicated to supporting global nature conservation, species preservation, and education. Through funding and partnerships, OZF helps protect habitats from poaching, supports species conservation, and raises awareness about the importance of biodiversity. Over the past 16 years, OZF has donated over €10.9 million to conservation projects worldwide.
Gain an overview of all beneficiary consortium partners here