Biodiversity Challenge for Dutch educational institutions

The Biodiversity Challenge is a “bioblitz”. During a bioblitz we map what can be found in our surroundings in terms of wild species, from crawling insects to flowering plants to birds and mammels. Together, we make visible what lives, grows, and blooms in our immediate learning and working environment. It’s a unique opportunity to learn outside the classroom, collaborate, and contribute to a greener Netherlands.

• Each participating institution organizes its own bioblitz: recording as many wild species as possible on their own grounds between 30th April and 2nd July. The number of species found is tracked via Waarneming.nl. Together, we aim to find a total of 4,000 species. You can read how to participate in the bioblitz lower on this page.

View the participating institutions and the observations they've made

• There will be  photo contest for the most beautiful nature photos. Students and staff from participating institutions can compete for a jury or audience prize.

Submit a photograph or view the submissions and vote for your favorite photo..

• We collect the best stories about nature experiences, discovered species, and activities from students and staff during the Biodiversity Challenge.

View the stories or share one of your own.

• A closing event for all participants on 2nd July from 14:00 to 16:30 on the campus in Utrecht, to celebrate everyone’s efforts, inspire each other, and exchange experiences. 
  

The Biodiversity Challenge 2026 is organized by Wageningen University & Research, Aeres Hogeschool Wageningen, Yuverta MBO and Universiteit Utrecht, is sponsored by NWA Groene Route and supported by GroenPact. The bioblitz is hosted by Waarneming.nl.