News published: 15 July 2025

In collaboration with Universidad de Concepcion, Chile and RBG Kew the Global Conservation Consortium for Nothofagus (GCCN) hosted a successful seminar at BGCI HQ

One July 10^th, the Global Conservation Consortium for Nothofagus (GCCN) held a seminar on conserving and restoring the threatened Nothofagus (also known as ‘southern beeches’) species in South American taxa. The event took place at BGCI’s headquarters in Kew, Richmond in collaboration with GCCN partners Universidad de Concepcion, Chile and RBG Kew. In addition to Kew, BGCI and featured speakers from Chile, the event drew attendees from botanic gardens across the UK and Europe.

The event included a fascinating presentation from Christian Echeverria, professor in Landscape Ecology, Biodiversity Conservation and Restoration, and is also the Director of Campus Naturaleza project at the University of Concepcion in Chile. The event also featured an valuable update on the global GCCN programme from Olivia Steed-Mundin Horticultural Taxonomist at Kew-Wakehurst and GCCN lead.

The focus of the symposium was Nothofagus species from Chile and covered many topics including:

• Conservation status of all 37 species of Nothofagus
• Summary of the Nothofagus Gap Analysis published earlier this year
• Update on capacity building in the region
• Report of results (so far) with in situ and ex situ work in Chile
• How the project is engaging with the local community and increasing public awareness
• Details on how the GCCN project in Chile is establishing partnerships with landowners to both protect and retore Nothofagus forests

The event also shared details about the Campus Naturaleza, which is a “pioneering initiative” that integrates conservation, restoration, education and human well-being. Find out mor about this fantastic project: Inicio – Campus naturaleza | UdeC

The Nothofagus conservation strategy in South America has deployed ‘best practice’ for three target species – Nothofagus alessandrii, N. glauca & N. macrocarpa – that is yielding tangible results on the ground. [See diagram below]

The event was a success and helped to strengthen partnerships between South American and European botanic gardens, in the continuing effort to protect, conserve and restore more of this important family of trees.

Additional information about the GCCN and related resources –

• Learn more about the GCCN: Global Conservation Consortia | Botanic Gardens Conservation International
• Find the Nothofagus Red List: The Red List and Ex situ Survey of Nothofagus | Botanic Gardens Conservation International
• Read the Nothofagus Gap Analysis: Conservation Gap Analysis of Nothofagus | Botanic Gardens Conservation International