The event will bring together leading experts to analyze scientific advances and field experiences aimed at integrating biodiversity and competitiveness in agriculture.
The University of Jaén hosted the presentation of the 1st International Congress on Biodiversity and Agriculture (ICBA), a scientific meeting promoted by SEO/BirdLife with the support of the academic institution. The congress will take place from April 14 to 17, 2026, within the framework of the LIFE Olivares Vivos+ project. It aims to connect research, the agricultural sector, and the marketplace to advance toward production models aligned with biodiversity.
The main goal is to provide scientific evidence that agricultural profitability is not at odds with nature conservation. This objective has been part of SEO/BirdLife’s work for more than a quarter of a century, promoting harmony between agriculture and life through projects such as RietVell and Olivares Vivos, as well as their replication and transfer initiatives Cooperalive and Secanos Vivos.
The press conference featured the participation of Nicolás Ruiz, Rector of the University of Jaén; Catalina García, Regional Minister for Sustainability and Environment of the Andalusian Government; Isabel Uceda, Deputy for Environment of the Jaén Provincial Council; María Isabel Cano, Councillor for Economic Promotion of the Jaén City Council; and José Eugenio Gutiérrez Ureña, Head of Agri-food Systems and Rural Environment at SEO/BirdLife and Director of the LIFE Olivares Vivos+ project.
During their speeches, the attending authorities highlighted the value of this forum as an academic space for reflection on the strategic role of nature in agriculture. They also emphasized that biodiversity is an intrinsic and fundamental part of the agricultural production process.
