7th World Conference on Marine Biodiversity (WCMB 2026)

World Conference on Marine Biodiversity (WCMB) 2026: The 7th edition of the global conference on marine biodiversity will be held from 17–20 November 2026 in Bruges, Belgium, at the Concert Hall Bruges near the historic city centre. Organized by the Flanders Marine Institute (VLIZ) with support from international and regional partners, the event will bring together leading marine scientists, policymakers, conservation organizations, and industry stakeholders under the umbrella of the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development.

Purpose and Objectives

The core purpose of WCMB 2026 is to advance understanding and conservation of marine biodiversity at a critical time for ocean ecosystems. It aims to highlight scientific progress, address threats like climate change, overfishing, and pollution, and explore solutions for protecting marine life and habitats. The conference also intends to strengthen global collaboration, promote sustainable ocean use, and provide input into policy frameworks supporting biodiversity protection and the SDGs.

Key Activities

The four-day program will feature keynote lectures from global experts, thematic symposia, oral and poster sessions, and interactive workshops. There will be opportunities for early-career researchers to present findings, side events on specific conservation challenges, and networking forums to encourage cross-disciplinary collaboration. Calls for abstracts will allow wide participation from the scientific community, and sponsors and exhibitors will showcase tools, technologies, and initiatives supporting marine research and conservation.

Significance

WCMB 2026 is significant as marine ecosystems face accelerating pressures, from ocean warming and acidification to biodiversity loss. Bringing the conference to Bruges emphasizes Europe’s role in marine science and conservation, while connecting with the broader global community. Positioned within the UN Ocean Decade, the event seeks to influence marine policy, mobilize resources for conservation, and reinforce the link between ocean health and human well-being.

Expected Outcomes

Expected outcomes include new scientific insights shared through publications and collaborations, strengthened networks across academia, policy, and industry, and practical recommendations for marine biodiversity protection. It is anticipated that the conference will inspire new projects, reinforce commitments to global biodiversity frameworks, and provide a legacy of actionable knowledge for both local and international stakeholders.

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