The IEK-CHANGES project was recently presented at the international conference “Biological Sciences and Environmental Solutions for the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals”, held from 24–26 September 2025 at Yerevan State University (Armenia).
The project’s Principal Investigator, Álvaro Fernández-Llamazares, was invited by the Embassy of Spain in Armenia to deliver a Keynote Plenary Lecture entitled “The global relevance of locally grounded ethnobiological research”. In his talk, he highlighted the importance of research rooted in local knowledge systems, such as the work carried out within the IEK-CHANGES project, for addressing some of today’s most pressing global challenges, including biodiversity loss, climate change, and sustainable development.
The conference brought together scientists, educators, and policymakers from multiple disciplines to discuss how biological sciences can contribute to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. During the event, Álvaro also served as a session moderator, facilitating discussions on the role of biology in advancing sustainable development.
We are grateful for the opportunity to share the vision and work of the IEK-CHANGES project with an international audience and to contribute to global conversations on the importance of ethnobiological research for more just and sustainable futures.
