Birds, Science, and Solutions

At this week’s IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi, Audubon brings its science, policy expertise, and hemispheric perspective to one of the world’s largest gatherings of conservation leaders. By participating, Audubon ensures that global decision-makers understand practical, science-based approaches connecting birds, habitats, and community priorities. 

A Global Forum for Action 

Next week, more than 10,000 representatives from governments, Indigenous Peoples’ organizations, NGOs, international organizations, philanthropies, and the private sector—including the National Audubon Society—will meet in Abu Dhabi to address biodiversity loss and climate change, central priorities of Audubon’s Flight Plan. 

Held every four years, the Congress unites scientists, policymakers, implementers, and funders to collaborate on innovative solutions to urgent environmental challenges. This year’s program centers on five themes: 

• Scaling Up Resilient Conservation Action 
• Reducing Climate Overshoot Risks 
• Delivering on Equity 
• Transitioning to Nature-Positive Economies and Societies 
• Disruptive Innovation and Leadership for Conservation 

Delegates will engage in plenaries, panels, and side events, vote on motions shaping global conservation policy, and participate in summits for youth, Indigenous Peoples, businesses, and philanthropists. Beyond the formal sessions, hallways and cafés will buzz with collaboration, partnerships, and problem-solving—all aimed at reversing biodiversity and climate declines. 

Audubon Sessions at the IUCN Americas Pavilion 

October 11 | 17:00 (Abu Dhabi) 
Soaring Seas: Seabirds and Emerging Opportunities for International Marine Conservation 
Audubon staff, alongside Rafael Ângelo Revorêdo of the Centro de Estudos e Monitoramento Ambiental (CEMAM), will highlight collaborative efforts to restore seabird populations across hemispheres. Attendees will see how decades of restoration work in the U.S. and Brazil provide insights for resilient ecosystems and coordinated action. Speakers include Audubon’s Chris Dragisic, Bethany Kraft, Chad Wilsey, as well as Rafael Ângelo Revorêdo of CEMAM. 

October 12 | 18:00 (Abu Dhabi)  
It Starts With Birds: Climate, Biodiversity, and Nature-Based Solutions 
Audubon staff and partners will explore how climate impacts species across the Americas and how nature-based strategies can strengthen ecosystems and communities. Participants will learn how science informs policy, partnerships, and projects across continents. Speakers include Audubon’s Chris Dragisic and Chad Wilsey, Chaz Colier from Seal River Watershed Alliance and Lesley Dickie from BirdLife International). 

Advancing Science Across Hemispheres 

The World Conservation Congress is about connection—between science, policy, ecosystems, and communities. Through its leadership and participation, Audubon highlights how research and practical solutions can address complex environmental challenges. By integrating perspectives on species, habitats, and human communities, Audubon ensures these priorities influence action at every scale.