Conference 2025: Day 1 programme

Tuesday 30^th September: Plenary sessions (live streamed: purchase online 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          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.

2.30pm                      Refreshments (Clocktower Suite)

3pm – 4.30pm          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.

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)