Nature FIRST Conference
From Insight to Impact
On 25 and 26 June, we at Sensing Clues had the privilege of joining our partners at the Nature FIRST Conference in Rhenen. Hosted at Ouwehands Dierenpark, this event wasn’t just a wrap-up — it was a powerful step forward. Over two days, conservationists, data scientists, forensic experts, and local practitioners came together to explore what’s working in the fight against biodiversity loss — and where we go next. What stood out? The deep sense of shared purpose and practical service.
The event was opened by Jan-Kees Schakel (Sensing Clues) and Sonja van Meerbeek (Nature FIRST), José Kok (Ouwehands Zoo Foundation), Ingrid Vermeulen (Bears in Mind), and Roman Cherepanyn (WWF Ukraine). Their words set the tone: this was a space to connect, reflect, and take action. From digital tools for early warning and ecosystem monitoring, to forensic kits for tackling wildlife crime, the solutions presented were field-tested and co-created with the people who need them most. Workshops, panels, and informal conversations gave us space to listen, share, and strengthen the connections that turn tools into action.
As Sensing Clues, we were proud to contribute to sessions on conflict forecasting, environmental time series, and the importance of keeping data usable, accessible, and in service of communities on the ground. Because in our view, conservation is about serving those who protect nature every day — from rangers to researchers, from prosecutors to local partners.
Keynotes by Fred Stolle (World Resources Institute) and Gladys Kamasanyu (Chief Magistrate, Uganda Wildlife Court) reminded us that lasting impact requires both structure and imagination. And in one of the final sessions, panellists came together to reflect on long-term partnerships and how we can co-create the future of conservation. A special moment came when Lucie Vidonne of the European Commission joined online to share her reflections and confirm that Nature FIRST’s work will be featured in the CORDIS Success Stories collection.
To get a feel for the energy and commitment of those two days, check out the Nature FIRST Aftermovie:
Although the project is coming to a close, the work is far from over. We’re excited to carry these tools and insights forward — and to continue building the partnerships that make real change possible. Let’s keep working together. Conservation doesn’t end here — it begins again.