11/10/2025
08:30 - 09:10
CR B: Forum - Session Room 11
, Hybrid (onsite with livestreaming)
Session with interpretation
Why attend
Discover why fungi matter for biodiversity, ecosystems, and climate resilience in this interactive session led by Terra's IUCN SSC Centre for Species Survival Fungi and Environment Agency Abu Dhabi. Explore conservation strategies, engage in hands-on activities, and learn how you can advocate for fungi and uncover their hidden, life-supporting roles.
Session Description
Fungi play a crucial role in ecosystems, yet they are often overlooked in conservation efforts. This youth-targeted interactive workshop led by the IUCN SSC Centre for Species Survival Fungi, Terra in collaboration with Environment Agency Abu Dhabi, explores fungi’s ecological importance, threats they face, and strategies for their protection using IUCN conservation frameworks. Through hands-on activities, participants in teams will assess real-world conservation challenges and co-create action plans, exploring solutions like habitat restoration, mycoremediation, mycoforestry, and policy advocacy. This workshop encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and active participation, empowering the youth to advocate for fungal biodiversity. By the end, participants will understand the urgent need for fungal conservation and how they can contribute to protecting the hidden kingdom beneath our feet. Terra, Expo City Dubai, runs one of the UAE's top field trip programs and will use its strong school relationships to engage upper secondary and university students for this workshop.