The meeting provided a platform to deliberate on CETAF’s newly developed 5-year strategic plan (2025–2030) and outline a collective vision for the future. The event was inaugurated by MNCN Director Rafael Zardoya, alongside Isabel Díaz, Deputy Vice-President of International Cooperation at CSIC, and CETAF President Edwin Van Huis. Van Huis highlighted the importance of unity: “To make an impact on the global stage, our voice must be unified. This historic Directors’ Summit presents a valuable opportunity to enhance our collaboration and shape CETAF’s strategy for 2030, strengthening our ability to influence critical decision-making processes.”
The discussions revolved around two key themes:
Inspirational talks and roundtable discussions emphasized the critical role of NHMs and Botanical Gardens in leading societal awareness and scientific initiatives. Esteemed speakers, including Pieter Hemels (founder of ftrprf), Marie Stenseke (Professor of Human Geography, Gothenburg University), and Jorge López Conde (architect) underscored the responsibility of these institutions to deliver science-driven solutions and foster public awareness about the planetary crisis.
The exchange of views during the panel moderated by – moderated by Katrin Vohland (Director of Vienna NHM) was intense. Brit Lisa Skjelkvåle, Director of the Natural History Museum at the University of Oslo, stressed the urgent need for action: “We have the knowledge and tools to address the biodiversity crisis, yet progress remains stagnant. Change demands action and collaboration.” Thomas Borsch, Director of the Berlin Botanical Garden, expressed grave concern regarding the pervasive ignorance surrounding the critical role of biodiversity in human life and the peril of overly relying on technology-based solutions: “We urge to shift away from the prevalent human inclination to seek dominance over nature.” Director of the Natural History Museum in London, Doug Gurr added: “Natural history museums and botanical gardens possess unparalleled public trust, making them uniquely positioned to drive transformative change.”
A Unified Commitment
CETAF56 culminated in the unanimous endorsement of CETAF’s strategy, centred on:
“Our institutions hold invaluable collections and conduct essential research, forming the foundation of our fight against biodiversity loss,” said Jana Hoffmann, CETAF Vice-President. “With this robust knowledge base and the unanimous endorsement of our new strategy by over 50 directors, we are ready to advance science-driven policies and effectively engage the public.”
Commitment to Continued Collaboration
Recognizing the value of collective action, CETAF directors resolved to convene annually, fostering continued dialogue and strategic collaboration. The CETAF Community Meeting will take place in Luxembourg in May 2025, followed by the next Directors’ Summit in Berlin in November 2025. These gatherings aim to plan joint activities and align strategies for biodiversity-positive actions and knowledge dissemination.
This pivotal event underscores the collective commitment of Europe’s leading NHMs and Botanical Gardens to act decisively against biodiversity loss, ensuring these institutions remain at the forefront of efforts to safeguard the planet’s natural heritage.
