Rewilding our World Conference: Reflecting on Impact, Integrity, and the Path Forward

The Rewilding our World Conference in September 2025 was conceived as a space for dialogue, collaboration, and inspiration around one of the most urgent challenges of our time: how to restore ecosystems while strengthening the communities that depend on them. Bringing together practitioners, researchers, entrepreneurs, and conservation leaders from diverse backgrounds, the conference aimed to bridge ideas with action – and in many ways, the result was beyond expectations.

Over the course of the event, participants engaged in rich discussions on landscape restoration, regenerative agriculture, community-led conservation, and innovative financing mechanisms for nature-based solutions. Speakers shared not only their successes, but also the complexities and setbacks that are inherent to working in dynamic ecological and social systems. This openness created a rare and valuable environment: one where knowledge was not simply presented, but genuinely exchanged.

We were particularly encouraged by the calibre and commitment of those involved. From field practitioners working in remote and often challenging conditions, to scientists advancing our understanding of ecosystems, to entrepreneurs exploring new models for sustainable livelihoods — the conference reflected a growing movement of people determined to move beyond theory and into implementation. Many of the connections made during those days have already led to follow-up conversations, collaborations, and new ideas that continue to evolve.

At the same time, it would be incomplete not to acknowledge that the organisation of the conference was affected by a serious incident in the run-up to the event. These issues related to commitments and representations made outside the direct control and oversight of the foundation, and did not align with our standards of transparency, accountability, and good governance. Once these discrepancies became clear, we took immediate steps to distance the organisation from those involved and to prevent further impact.

If anyone has concerns that funds intended for the Foundation may not have reached the Foundation, including in cases where individuals may have acted or presented themselves as representing the Foundation, we encourage them to contact us directly, and where appropriate, the relevant authorities.

Integrity is not negotiable

The values that underpin our work – integrity, openness, and responsible stewardship of resources – are not negotiable. As a foundation working with grants, partnerships, and donations, we have a duty not only to deliver meaningful impact, but also to ensure that all processes leading to that impact are conducted with the highest level of care, transparency and honesty. Where this standard is not met, we act.

Across the world, colleagues working in conservation are threatened, attacked, abducted, and in some cases even killed because of the work they do. In that context, it is difficult to justify silence in the face of fraud or misrepresentation out of concern for reputational damage.

Failing to name or address misconduct does not protect the sector. On the contrary, it creates space for those who seek to exploit it. Transparency and accountability are essential if trust is to be maintained – both with partners and with the wider public. Silence risks normalising behaviour that should never be considered acceptable.

Turning adversity into opportunity

At the same time, we believe it is equally important not to allow such setbacks to overshadow the genuine achievements and momentum that emerged from the conference. The energy, creativity, and commitment of participants demonstrated that there is both a need and a strong appetite for continued exchange in this space. Many attendees have expressed their willingness to remain involved and to contribute to future initiatives, which we deeply value.

Looking ahead, we are committed to building on what worked, while strengthening the structures and processes behind it. This includes more robust due diligence in all partnerships and financial arrangements. These are necessary steps in ensuring that future initiatives are even stronger, more resilient, and fully aligned with our mission.

In doing so, we hope to bring together again the “first movers” – those who showed both courage and dedication in engaging people in rewilding. Their willingness to step forward, to contribute, and to help shape a shared vision is something we do not take for granted.

In closing, we want to express our sincere appreciation to everyone who participated, contributed, and supported the Rewilding our World Conference. Challenges are part of any conservation effort, but they do not define it. What defines it is how we respond – with clarity, with integrity, and with a continued commitment to the work that matters.

We move forward with that commitment firmly in place.