IWGP 2025: 300 archeobotanici van heide en veentje strijken neer in Groningen

Samenvatting

IWGP 2025: 300 archaeobotanists from far and wide take over Groningen. 

In July 2025, the University of Groningen hosted the twentieth meeting of the International Workgroup for Palaeoethnobotany (IWGP), organized by the Laboratory for Palaeobotany and Palynology of the Groningen Institute of Archaeology (GIA) and the Dutch Cultural Heritage Agency (RCE). It was the second time since 1983 that the conference was organized in Groningen. After 44 years, it has grown to include a considerably larger and more international community of established and young researchers, attracting around 300 participants from more than 40 countries. The IWGP represents the most important scientific and social gathering of archaeobotanists internationally and the program combined twelve scientific sessions, lab sessions and lively social events, and excursions. Public outreach included exhibitions and a diverse media coverage. Minor issues aside, the meeting contributed to the international recognition of the Laboratory for Palaeobotany and Palynology at the GIA, highlighted its exceptional reference collection, and stimulated existing and new ties within and beyond the field.