Hawaii - a natural choice

Honolulu, Hawai’i, U.S.A. will host the 2016 IUCN Congress, having received strong endorsement from President Barack Obama, his administration and the State of Hawaiʻi.

Bringing the IUCN Congress to Hawaiʻi brings attention to islands, the too-often-forgotten front lines of climate change and small scale representations of conservation issues facing everyone on the planet. Hawaiʻi is also central to the Pacific Rim, the fastest growing region in the global economy.

 A microcosm of global conservation crossroads

Islands allow us to see issues in the round—the beauty, biodiversity and rich local cultures, the threats to them and their relationship to human wellbeing and success.

Islands - the forgotten front lines of climate change.

Holding the IUCN Congress on a Pacific island draws decision-maker and media attention to islands, highlighting their vulnerability and the urgency of addressing climate change. 

A geo-political hub

The Pacific Rim is the fastest growing region in the global economy, with tremendous potential impact on the environment. These countries make up over half of global GDP, and Hawaiʻi is roughly equidistant between them.

Local inspiration

Hawaiʻi has shown its leadership in conservation through its Aloha+ Challenge sustainability targets and is working with IUCN to put in place best practices to set a global example for hosting sustainable events.

A world-class venue

Hawaiʻi is one of the few islands with the capacity to host an event of this size and offers an exceptional modern venue. Learn more about our Hawaiian hosts

Special Congress Excursions 

Special Hawaiʻi excursions

Learn about nature conservation in Hawaii and explore the culture and natural wonders of the islands through special hands-on experiences our Hawaiian hosts are offering Congress participants.
 

 

Recent updates

An albatross
12 May 2016
A two-metre-high fence protects native plants and animals in Ka‘ena Point. It's island innovation in action.
Seychelles - La Digue - Anse Source d'Argent
26 Apr 2016
Jean-Paul Adam, Minister of Finance, Trade and the Blue Economy of the Republic of Seychelles, discusses how debt swaps can build a Blue Economy by mobilising capital to support climate change adaptation and marine protection.
C.J. Tamelander
15 Apr 2016
Papahānaumokuākea is one of the largest Marine Protected Areas in the world, home to thousands of species and culturally important for Hawaiian people. Here we learn about marine debris removal and habitat restoration initiatives
The Opunohu Bay and Valley on Moorea Island in French Polynesia
22 Mar 2016
The Opunohu Bay and Valley on Moorea Island in French Polynesia is set to become a model of Integrated Water Resources Management – a process that aims to maximise economic and social welfare without compromising the sustainability of vital ecosystems.
Napali coast, Kauai
16 Mar 2016
Restoration efforts in the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge show what it takes to regain healthy forests and ecosystems for the individuals and communities who depend on them.
Green turtle in the Pūpūkea Marine Life Conservation District, O’ahu
01 Mar 2016
As microcosms of worldwide conservation challenges, how islands protect biodiversity and address wildlife trafficking can offer insights into how to address this issue on a larger scale.  

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