2026 Ecology, Environment, and Biodiversity Week – Science in Action: Restoring Nature, Transforming Regions

Organized annually since 2022 by the CNRS, Ecology, Environment, and Biodiversity Week (SEEB) brings together researchers and local socioeconomic stakeholders to discuss the scientific, environmental, and societal challenges facing our regions. This year, SEEB will take place from June¹to 5, 2026, throughout France as well as in Portugal and Senegal, under the theme “Science in Action: Restoring Nature, Transforming Regions.”

Biodiversity Restoration Efforts on the La Conche Floodplain.

Tuesday, June 2, 2026

As part of SEEB 2026, a day of discussions will be held on Tuesday, June 2, in the heart of a floodplain bordered by the Via-Rhôna. This event provides an opportunity to share a unique project aimed at restoring and preserving the natural capital of wetlands in the face of the proliferation of invasive alien species.  The approaches and actions implemented through a long-term public-private partnership will be shared to demonstrate that a new, ethical, and sustainable approach to managing these species is possible.

The proposed visit involved sharing the results of a close collaboration between the Compagnie Nationale du Rhône and the Bio-Inspired Chemistry and Ecological Innovations Laboratory (CHIMECO – CNRS / University of Montpellier) addressing the ecosystem disruption of freshwater resources, the disappearance of wetlands, and the uncontrolled spread of invasive alien species (IAS)—all of which are causes for concern. To address these challenges in a concrete way, innovative, nature-based solutions were presented with the goal of restoring biodiversity in wetlands through an interdisciplinary approach combining: 

1. A new, gentle, and sustainable approach to controlling and managing the spread of exotic knotweed;
2. Chemical and economic valorization of harvested species through a groundbreaking program in sustainable chemistry that is 100% bio-based.

 This work is fully in line with the UN’s recommendations:“Work with nature, not against it,” in order to combine ecological, environmental, social, and economic benefits.

Link to the CNRS Ecology & Environment website