How can stronger relationships between humans and nature create stronger people, more regenerative places and thriving communities? This is the central question of the 2026 edition of the Biophilia Summit, which will take place online on 24 September.

The concept of biophilia explores how changing the relationship between humans and the living world and building stronger connections can improve health, restore biodiversity, strengthen communities and inspire more regenerative ways of designing, building and living. The concept has now evolved well beyond being merely a decorative addition to architecture and design, and its fundamental role as a component of regeneration-based development is increasingly recognised.

This year’s theme, Biophilia in Practice: Sensing, Belonging, Regenerating, reflects this growing evolution of biophilia from a set of design principles towards a broader framework for regenerative thinking and practice.

The summit programme explores how biophilia can influence human experience, professional practice and the future relationship between people and nature. Throughout the day, research, existing projects, innovative products, policy initiatives and creative practices will be presented, demonstrating how biophilic thinking can be translated into meaningful action.

The summit approaches biophilia as a framework that can be applied across every sector, responding collectively to the need to transform the relationship between humans and ecosystems, with the aim of creating regenerative places and more resilient communities.

With participants from every continent and a range of different sectors, the conference brings together policymakers, academics, researchers and innovators for an open discussion on the evolution of the discipline. The event will focus on real-world projects while also creating bridges for new collaborations, contributing to the growth of the regenerative design movement and the relationship between humans and nature.

For the Renewable Matter community, as the event’s media partner, a 10% discount on the participation fee is available with the code RM10, to be entered during registration on the event’s official website.

Cover: photo by Envato