AdNatura, a success story made in UM
For this latest edition, the national trade show for ecology and biodiversity professionals, renamed AdNatura, took place at the Arena on December 12 and 13. This unique event in France brought together more than 3,000 visitors, 400 speakers, and over 80 exhibitors.
Supported by the ecology fair association, based at the University of Montpellier, AdNaturais the must-attend event for ecology and biodiversity professionals in France. This event is organized by students in the Master's program in Ecology and Biodiversity Management (IEGB) at the UM Faculty of Science. "For 15 years, this annual event has served above allto bring together, showcase, and promote those involved in ecology and biodiversity. For our students and future graduates, the ecological transitionmeansboth the greening of existing professionsandthe emergence of new ones," explains the founder of the fair, Olivier Thaler, Professor Head of the IEGB Master's program.
Teaching methods that promote professional integration
The challenges associated with biodiversity loss have given rise to new recruitment needs and professional structures in applied ecology. AdNaturais behind an educational project included in a methodological course on "Project Management" as part of the Master's degree program (IEGB). Through the organization of this event, students take on positions of responsibility as administrators of the "ecology fair" association: president , treasurer, communications manager, logistics manager, eco-responsibility manager, etc. "Project management is an essential skill for a master's-level professional. This approach allows students toimmerse themselves inreal-lifesituationsinvolving key players in theindustry.In addition, the diversity of backgrounds andthe contribution of multidisciplinary knowledge bring real richness andcomplementarity to the implementation of projects," says a master's student in IEGB at UM.
Each student is involved in assisting with project management and implementation. Adnaturabrings together a career and training forum, a scientific and technical conference, and professional networking events. Future environmental engineers coordinate the highlights of the fair and the activities of the teams of students and volunteers. It is an opportunity for them to learn how to network.
Local roots and international reach
AdNaturaaims to become the leading international trade show for professionals in the fields of ecology and biodiversity. With a budget of €350,000, it could be supported by an ad hoc structure under the direction of a steering committee. In light of this success, collective efforts will continue in order to consolidate ties with stakeholders and attract more students, job seekers, businesses, local authorities, elected officials, and citizens.
"Ecology and the city of Montpellier are intrinsically linked," adds Olivier Thaler. "The UM is ranked second in the world for ecology in the Shanghai thematic rankings. We benefit from a tremendous legacy of 60 years of achievements by the scientific and academic community."