You can download the ECCB 2006 Abstract Book by clicking here.

I still find it difficult to believe that we are organising the first-ever European Congress for Conservation Biology! The interest shown in this event confirms the view that such a meeting is long overdue. With world-leading plenary speakers, over 850 abstracts submitted, 17 symposia and a good range of workshops and training sessions, the Congress promises to be one of the largest-ever gatherings of conservation biologists. But it is more than just a scientific meeting. The theme of the ECCB is ‘Diversity for Europe’ and this acknowledges the cultural and economic diversity as well as the biological. Conservation biology will have little impact unless it is used within a policy context. The ECCB has a strong policy profile and a serious intent to make the links between good science and effective policy.

The need to build a strong and effective conservation community in Europe could not be more urgent. Europe faces a period of rapid political and environmental change. To meet these challenges and map out a sustainable path for biodiversity and for future generations, we, as a society of conservation biologists, need to establish a strong presence at a European scale. I hope you can help us take on this task in Eger.

Andrew Pullin
President of SCB-Europe
and
Chair of the ECCB Scientific Committee

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The European Section of the Society for Conservation Biology is determined to promote the development and use of science for the conservation of European species and ecosystems, and to make sure that conservation policy is firmly underpinned by the best available scientific evidence.

The European Section needs to grow in number and capacity to make sure that the voice of conservation science informs the many European policies that impact on our biodiversity. We also need to increase the awareness of European policy-makers and scientists of conservation issues and the complex mix of scientific disciplines required to properly manage them. Europe is where humans and natural resources have been coexisting for millenia and we have developed unique solutions to mitigate the conflicts and move toward sustainability. We are still far from having solved all problems but we have good lessons for the rest of the world. We need your support to help the Society assume a prominent role in the development of European conservation science and policy. For these reasons, we are inviting all of you, policy makers, scientists, students and managers of biodiversity to the first European Congress of Conservation Biology and we hope to see you in great number in Hungary in 2006. 

Luigi Boitani, past-President
European Section of SCB

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Hungary is in the heart of Europe, has a unique and diverse wildlife, and the home of famous wines, drinks and cuisine. Just some of the many reasons to attend the congress in Eger, 2006! We will keep registration fees as low as possible and intend to fund colleagues and students with limited resources. So save the dates in your calendar!

András Báldi, Chair
Local Organising Committee