3rd UNESCO MAB Youth Forum in the Po Delta (18–22 May 2026)

3rd UNESCO MAB Youth Forum in the Po Delta

Dates: 18–22 May 2026

Location: Po Delta Biosphere Reserve and Colli Euganei (Veneto and Emilia-Romagna, Italy)

The 3rd Youth Forum of UNESCO's "Man and the Biosphere" (MAB) programme brings together over 150 young people aged 18–35 from 142 countries. The meeting focuses on strengthening youth participation in environmental governance and sustainable development through practical workshops, field activities and international networking.

Main objectives

• Enhance Youth Governance in environmental policy-making;
• Exchange on local practices for water resource management and biodiversity protection;
• Contribute tangible outputs to UNESCO strategies, including the final "MAB Youth Declaration 2026".

Planned activities

• Thematic workshops on biodiversity, regenerative economy and water management;
• Citizen science sessions and on-site monitoring;
• Field visits to the Po Delta and Colli Euganei natural areas;
• Launch of the national "Generazione MAB" network and adoption of a commitment charter.

For visitors

The forum is also an opportunity to learn about conservation projects active in the Biosphere Reserves and discover sustainable development practices. Visitors interested in public activities or territorial visits should check the official channels of the local reserves for access, schedules and routes.

Practical tips

• Plan travel between Veneto and Emilia-Romagna—consider train or car connections;
• Bring suitable outdoor clothing for fieldwork and visits in wetland areas;
• Check the schedule of public initiatives if you wish to attend workshops or open sessions.

The Forum is part of the MAB programme, which today includes hundreds of Biosphere Reserves worldwide and promotes the reconciliation of biodiversity conservation with sustainable development.