Nature FIRST Conference Panel Discussion
From Tools to Action – Scaling Conservation Solutions for Global Impact
Linda
Developing a smart conservation solution is a meaningful step, but the real challenge lies in getting it used consistently and at scale. This was the focus of the panel discussion “From Tools to Action – Scaling Conservation Solutions for Global Impact”, held on 26 June 2025 at the Nature FIRST Conference in Rhenen. The session was moderated by Linda van Duivenbode, an independent consultant with a background in national and EU policy and business. The panel featured Fred Stolle (WRI), Niels Raes (Naturalis), Jan-Kees Schakel (Sensing Clues), and Boris Hinojo Sánchez (3edata), each offering a distinct perspective on what it takes to turn promising tools into lasting conservation impact.
Different Models, Shared Purpose
The panellists represented a variety of organisational models. Boris Hinojo Sánchez, co-founder of 3edata, spoke about the barriers private companies face when entering the conservation space. Although tools like the Habitat or Land Use Maps are ready for use, engaging public administrations through tendering procedures often slows progress. Monitoring is often mandatory under environmental law, yet funding and political will are limited.
Jan-Kees Schakel described a shift in structure that opened doors. Originally a social enterprise, Sensing Clues converted to a foundation to gain trust and access among field-based partners. This structure allowed partnerships with technology providers who now donate and adapt high-end solutions for conservation. According to Jan-Kees, although the organisation is set up as a non-profit, the mindset remains pragmatic and committed to delivering real impact.
Fred & Niels
Making Science Work in Practice
Niels Raes shared insights from Naturalis’s work on the Biodiversity Meets Data (BMD) project. Rather than creating new tools from scratch, the project consolidates and scales existing ones through a single access portal for Natura 2000 site managers. This includes supporting data standards, ensuring tools are relevant for end users, and integrating local knowledge. The project is publicly funded, but sustainability after the project ends remains a concern.
Public Good vs Business Model
Fred Stolle from WRI reflected on efforts to finance the Global Forest Watch platform. Although private sector interest was strong, subscription models did not generate the necessary funding. Ultimately, long-term backing from public funders like Norway and the Bezos Earth Fund proved essential. Fred emphasised the need to recognise environmental monitoring as a public good, with funding that matches its global relevance.
Boris & Jan-Kees
Community-led
The discussion also highlighted the importance of engaging local communities. Boris shared examples from Spain where trust-building with landowners and farmers was key to implementing restoration projects. Working closely with people on the ground, including in Natura 2000 areas, made it possible to align scientific goals with local realities. Jan-Kees pointed out that many restoration successes come from regions where people still remember living alongside wildlife. He stressed the importance of designing tools for those who manage nature daily. These users are not technicians. They are rangers, biologists and land managers who need tools that work simply and reliably in the field.
A Broader Perspective on Coexistence
Gladys
Throughout the panel and audience discussion, the topic of human-wildlife coexistence came up repeatedly. From managing wolf populations in the Netherlands to preventing elephant crop raids in Africa, the panel made clear that coexistence is not just a technical issue. It is social, political and emotional. Among the contributions from the audience, Gladys Kamasanyu shared a perspective based on her experience in Uganda, where she serves as Chief Magistrate and head of the Uganda Wildlife Court. She also leads the nonprofit Help African Animals, which focuses on improving human attitudes and behaviour toward wildlife protection. Gladys reminded the room that communities living with wildlife often carry the greatest burdens, yet are rarely recognised as conservation leaders. She urged organisations to work directly with local people, help them understand the value of biodiversity, and ensure they benefit from conservation. In Uganda, for example, 20 per cent of park revenues are redistributed to communities living near protected areas.
Key Reflections
Moderator Linda van Duivenbode closed the panel with three messages:
Developing a tool is only the beginning. Making sure it is adopted takes long-term effort.
Every solution has a cost. If users are not paying, someone else must. This needs to be planned.
Lasting impact requires continuity. Projects should consider their long-term role from the start.
Scaling conservation is not about pushing tools as widely as possible. It is about ensuring they are used where they matter, by those who need them, with support that lasts. This requires flexibility in business models, respect for community knowledge, and a mindset that puts practical use before perfection.