70 years of ecology!

26 June 2024 marks exactly 70 years since the founding of the IOO, the precursor of the Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW). In this anniversary year, ecology and the importance of ecological knowledge (for everyone) will be discussed in many ways. Seventy years of knowledge is the key to the future!
Landingspagina

Relationships

The establishment of (the predecessors of) NIOO was and is intended to boost ecological science in the Netherlands. Before then it was just ‘field biology’, but all the relationships are so crucial.

This is NIOO
Luchtfoto NIOO Wageningen

Facts and figures

  • Founded in
    1954
  • Historical locations
    7
  • Now situated
    In Wageningen
  • Employees and guest researchers
    >200

National role

In total, the KNAW establishes three ecological research institutes in 1954 and 1957, designed to boost the science of ecology in the Netherlands. From the Delta Works to Lake Tjeukemeer, from the just-completed Flevopolders to Spitsbergen.

Onderzoeksboot voor het zoete water: de Tjukemar

Research

Before the advent of ecologists, it was just ‘field biology’. But the relationships between all those living organisms and their environment are so crucial. Studying them requires more than just looking at what is growing or living somewhere. From DNA labs to computer models, and from nature management & policy advice to citizen science.

Onderzoek met waterhapper in the eighties

Key to the future

All that ecological knowledge and expertise gathered by the NIOO gives us a key to the future. That is so valuable, we won't keep it to ourselves. That is why we organise all kinds of activities for all kinds of people during the lustrum year.

NIOO 70 years of ecology

The value of long term research

It can take years to notice the effects of changes in nature. Long-term research is therefore essential. NIOO does this kind of research. What does it teach us?

The study of light colour impact

Experts