What evidence shows that rewilding actually works? The symposium also marks the launch of the Rewilding Expertise Centre by NIOO researcher and special WUR professor Liesbeth Bakker on World Rewilding Day!

Would you like to help shape the future of our planet? Visit this unique one-day event on soil biodiversity, where people
come together to discuss, exchange ideas, and contribute directly to future policy.

Also in 2026, NIOO will be present at the national science festival for (thousands of) kids and their families. Will the giant soil animal maze be up and running again? That's where you go underground yourself... Will there be a new festival stand with surprises? Come join the festival and experience it!

The 2026 edition of the IVN Dutch Ditch Days will take place between 5 and 7 June. During these days, IVN guides children in taking a closer look at the aquatic animals and plantlife in Dutch ditches. NIOO uses the observations of the children to study trends in water biodiversity and water quality.

How can biodiversity be safeguarded effectively in the long term? This is the core question of the 8th European Congress for Conservation Biology (ECCB). The congress will be held in Leiden, from 6 until 10 July 2026.

In een gezonde bodem leven bodemdieren. Zoek je mee? Dat kan overal: in je eigen tuin, het park om de hoek, op het schoolplein of zelfs het balkon. In 2026 voor de 12e keer alweer.

Save the date: on Saturday 3 October 2026, NIOO will open its doors again to visitors for our Big Open Day. From 11:00 to 17:00, everyone will be welcome. Seize your chance to take a look in our labs and experimental gardens: only possible once in every three years!