Tuesday 30th September: Plenary sessions (live streamed: purchase online and in-person tickets)
8am – 9am Exhibition set up (Rafters Suite)
8.45am Refreshments (Clocktower Suite)
9am – 11am Delegate registration (Foyer) & poster set up (1st Floor Lounge)
10.15am Refreshments (Clocktower Suite)
Please ensure you’re seated by 10.45am
11am – 12pm Conference welcome and introduction (Grand Ballroom)
11am Poetry reading: Angeline King
11.10am IUCN UK Peatland Programme welcome
11.25am Welcome address: Julie Thompson, Head of Environment, Marine and Fisheries Group, DAERA
11.40am Northern Ireland’s Peatland Strategy and current initiatives: Mark Preston, Head of Peatland Policy Team, DAERA
12pm – 1pm Lunch (Clocktower Suite)
1pm – 2.30pm Water Connections: Bridging Science, Policy and Practice for a Resilient Future (Grand Ballroom)
This plenary session will spotlight the critical role of peatlands in the UK water environment, bringing together leading scientists with water industry and statutory representatives to explore how evidence-based research can inform and transform policy. Through rapid-fire lightning talks, experts will present headline findings - such as how well-managed peatlands can reduce flood peaks and improve water quality - followed by a chaired panel discussion delving into the policy implications. The session aims to drive forward conversations around water security, peatland conservation, and the commitments needed from all four UK nations. It will also explore opportunities for innovation, highlight knowledge gaps, and consider how current policy frameworks support or hinder integrated water and peatland outcomes.
2.30pm Refreshments (Clocktower Suite)
3pm – 4.30pm Peatlands Without Borders: Why Global Action Matters (Grand Ballroom)
The UK peatland community is part of a growing number of nations calling for greater understanding, protection and restoration of peatland ecosystems. This session will showcase the IUCN UK Peatland Programme’s role on the international stage, including the development of a Red List for peatland ecosystems and the forthcoming IUCN World Conservation Congress, where we are calling for the adoption of a motion to develop a unified global definition of peat and peatlands. Hear from our partners at the UN Environment Programme-led Global Peatlands Initiative about the outcomes from Ramsar COP15, and join our Virtual Peatlands Pavilion world tour to explore peatlands around the globe.
4.30pm – 5.30pm Break
5.30pm – 6.30pm Peatland Bingo (Rafters Suite & 1st Floor Lounge)
Join our informal networking session to get to know fellow delegates and win some peatland-themed prizes.
6.30pm – 9.30pm Poster and exhibition session (Rafters Suite & 1st Floor Lounge)
Visit our exhibition stands and poster display to learn more about the research, restoration and engagement taking place across the UK peatland community.
6.30pm Drinks reception (Drawing Room)
7pm Buffet dinner (Clocktower Suite)
