UK & Ireland Lakes Conference Spotlights Urgency, Innovation, and Collaboration in Lake Protection
The UK & Ireland Lakes Network along with the Seven Lochs Wetland Park project are proud to host the esteemed UK & Ireland Lakes Conference at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow on Wednesday, 11th October 2023. Supported by the Glasgow Convention Bureau and Nature Scotland and generously sponsored by PET Water Solutions and Iolight, this event emerges as a beacon of urgency, innovation, and collaboration in a time when our lakes, lochs, and wetlands face the pressing impacts of climate change. The conference will enable exploration of new routes to achieve nature recovery, improved community health and well-being, and reducing climate impacts.
We are honoured to announce Udo Gattenlöhner, CEO of the Global Nature Fund, as a keynote speaker. Based in Lake Constance, Germany, Gattenlöhner will share insights on the strategic movement for global lake protection, enriching our approach to lake management.
A conference highlight includes Glasgow Strategic Drainage Partnership’s presentation on Sustainable Urban Drainage, detailing how water management can unlock additional benefits like new accessible greenspace and habitat creation. Before the conference, on Tuesday, 10th October, delegates will have the chance to explore the nature visitor centre and education hub in the Seven Lochs area. The Wetland Park is described as a landscape that’s been shaped by water but also by people. Moreover, Nature Scot and the Love Windermere Partnership will discuss funding opportunities for lakes and implementing nature-based solutions, alongside papers on collaborative and novel lake management methods.
The event also presents a unique networking opportunity, fostering an environment for professionals and enthusiasts to exchange knowledge and collaborate.
Scott Ferguson of The Seven Lochs Wetland Park project remarked, “Having witnessed the transformative power of this conference, I recognise its unmatched value. As this year’s host, we are eager to share our dedication to conserving these vital ecosystems and collaborate with a diverse group of passionate individuals.”
Prior to the conference, on Tuesday 11th October, delegates will have the opportunity to attend the following site visits:
Golf-It at Hogganfield: A £12M initiative highlighting golf and nature education’s harmonious relationship.
Blairtummock Integrated Green Infrastructure: Observe the conversion of football pitches into eco-friendly spaces.
Greening Strathclyde Country Park: Explore the future vision for one of Scotland’s premier attractions.
For full details and to book conference tickets, visit https://www.ukandirelandlakes.org/conferences/
