Long-Term Ecosystem Research: Contributions, Challenges and Future Perspectives
20 years LTER-Bulgaria as part of eLTER
Save the dates: 14-16.10.2026
Venue: Hotel “Cherno More“, Varna, Bulgaria
Organized by the Bulgarian Long-Term Ecosystem Research(LTER-BG) Network, the Institute of Biodiversity andEcosystem Research (IBER-BAS), Institute of Oceanology(IO-BAS), University of Forestry (UF), Forest Research Institute (FRI-BAS), with the support of Pensoft Publishers.
LTER-BG receives funding from the National Roadmap for Research Infrastructure (2020-2027) coordinated by the Ministry of Education and Science of Republic of Bulgaria.
About the Conference
Whole-ecosystem studies are central to advancing the understanding of complex ecological systems, as they enable the analysis of long-term biotic and abiotic interactions and the identification of emergent ecosystem properties that cannot be captured through short-term approaches. Long-term ecosystem research provides the empirical foundation necessary to address pressing environmental challenges, including global change, biodiversity loss, and sustainability transitions. Such a holistic approach allows for strategic planning and development of crucial evidence-based ecosystem conservation and management.
In 2026, the Bulgarian Long-Term Ecosystem Research Network (LTER-Bulgaria) celebrates 20 years of coordinated long-term ecosystem observation and research. Over two decades, the network has generated a unique and extensive body of long-term datasets that have contributed to ecological theory, ecosystem process understanding, and the development of integrative, multi-scale, and transdisciplinary research at national and international levels.
The anniversary conference provides a platform to reflect on past achievements, discuss current challenges, and explore future perspectives for long-term ecosystem research in the context of global environmental change, biodiversity loss, and sustainability transitions. Contributions addressing terrestrial, freshwater, coastal, critical zone, and socio-ecological systems are welcome. Particular emphasis will be placed on studies that leverage long-term data to examine ecosystem dynamics, resilience, and responses to environmental change. Embedded in the Integrated European Long-Term Ecosystem, critical zone, and socio-ecological Research Infrastructure (eLTER RI) and the global ILTER, the event will bring together researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and stakeholders to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and strengthen the science–policy–society interface.
Conference Topics
1. Monitoring and Understanding Ecosystem Dynamics
Long-term evidence of ecosystem change, resilience, and functioning under changing climate. Standardised observations, whole-system research and monitoring of pressures.
2. Ecosystem Services and Stakeholder Engagement in Long-Term Ecological Research: What We Lose When We Win
Trade-offs, synergies, and socio-ecological implications of ecosystem use. Co-creating knowledge, building trust, and linking science with decision-making.
3. Ecosystem Restoration and Nature-Based Solutions
From degraded landscapes to resilient futures: scientific foundations and practical pathways to alleviate biodiversity loss.
4. Emerging Technologies in Ecosystem Research, Data Management, and Open Science in eLTER
Remote sensing, sensors, AI, semantics, and other innovative tools. Standards, FAIR principles, interoperability, and the future of ecological data infrastructures.
Target Audience
● Environmental researchers and ecologists
● LTER site and platform coordinators and team members
● Peers and environmental RIs
● Decision and policymakers
● NGOs and stakeholders involved in ecosystem management
● Рractitioners, volunteers, and others involved in ecosystem research.
Objectives
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Present key scientific results from long-term ecological research
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Promote interdisciplinary and cross-sectoral collaboration, exchange ideas and experiences across disciplines
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Strengthen links between long-term research, policy, and practice
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Contribute to eLTER and the global ILTER initiatives
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Identify priorities and future pathways for LTER at national, regional, and European levels.