On November 26, the Southeast Asian Bat Conservation Research Symposium (SEABCO) was held for the first time in Viet Nam. The event brought together over 120 scientists from 20 countries to discuss and devise solutions for bat conservation. More than just a scientific conference, SEABCO also served as an opportunity for Viet Nam to showcase itself as an ideal destination for nature conservation and sustainable development activities. Through this event, Viet Nam contributes to bat and ecosystem conservation while strengthening collaboration with Southeast Asian and global partners.
The SEABCO 2024 symposium, held from November 26–28, was co-organized by CIM (a social enterprise with extensive conservation experience), the Center for Biodiversity Conservation and Endangered Species (CBES), and SEABCRU. The event highlighted the importance of protecting bat habitats, raising community awareness, and fostering international cooperation to develop effective conservation strategies.
Key topics discussed at the symposium included:The role of bats in pollination, seed dispersal, and pest control; Strategies for protecting bat habitats in the context of climate change; New research on the taxonomy and ecosystems of Southeast Asian bats; The connection between bats and human health, as well as measures to prevent disease outbreaks.
Experts emphasized that bats have a significant impact on agriculture and environmental protection. Often referred to as "natural seed dispersers," bats play a crucial role in forest regeneration and supporting the growth of various plant species. Additionally, they help control insect populations, reducing the need for pesticides, thus benefiting the environment and public health. This makes bats essential for maintaining ecological balance and promoting sustainable agriculture.
However, bats face numerous threats, including climate change, habitat loss, and unnecessary hunting and extermination. Conservation efforts are not only vital for protecting bats but also for maintaining ecosystem stability.
SEABCO, the leading scientific conference on bat research and conservation in Southeast Asia, was first held in 2007 in Thailand.