Founded in 1788, the Linnean Society of London is the world’s oldest active biological society. For more than two centuries, it has played a central role in advancing scientific understanding of the natural world.
The Society has long served as a place where evidence, observation, and knowledge are brought together to shape how nature is understood. Its history reflects a commitment to rigorous inquiry, open exchange, and public contribution.
The Linnean Assembly 2026
In 2026, the Linnean Society hosts The Linnean Assembly: Foundations of National Nature Recovery, a one-day public event convened in collaboration with the Wild Britain Forum.
The Assembly marks a shift in focus from understanding nature to restoring it. It brings together scientists, landowners, practitioners, policymakers, financiers, and cultural leaders to examine how Britain can move from fragmented efforts toward a coherent national approach to nature recovery.
Open to the public but built around a carefully curated programme, the Assembly is designed to:
Clarify shared priorities and principles
Identify structural gaps in current approaches
Lay the groundwork for long-term coordination and delivery
The Assembly represents the first formal step in the development of the British Nature Restoration Compact and a wider national process aimed at durable, long-term ecological recovery.
