From 13 to 15 October 2026, Krems will become an international hub for research and innovation focusing on the health-promoting effects of forests. The 8th International Congress of the International Society of Forest Therapy (ISFT), taking place at IMC Krems, is one of the world’s leading scientific events dedicated to Forest Therapy and nature-based health interventions. International scientists, medical professionals, psychologists, therapists, healthcare and nursing professionals, forestry experts, as well as representatives from tourism, education, politics and the healthcare sector will come together to present the latest research findings and discuss their relevance for healthcare, prevention and society.
Press
International Cutting-Edge Research into Forest Health Comes to Krems
The choice of venue is no coincidence: the International Society of Forest Therapy was founded in Krems. Returning to its place of origin underlines the international significance of Krems as a centre for science and healthcare and as a driving force for evidence-based, nature-based approaches to health. It also makes Austria the host of a scientific exchange at the highest international level.
Scientific Excellence Meets Societal Relevance
The congress will focus on the latest findings on how forest ecosystems can promote physical, psychological and social health. The scientific programme covers a broad range of topics, from Forest Therapy for children and young people and mental health to clinical applications and relational therapeutic approaches, as well as questions of evidence, quality assurance and implementation within healthcare and care systems. International developments in education, professionalisation and innovation will also be discussed, alongside the potential of health-oriented tourism concepts and regional value creation. High-profile international keynote speakers, scientific presentations, panel discussions and interdisciplinary debates will connect current research with concrete perspectives for practice, policy and society.
Theory and Practice in the Healing Forest at Göttweig Abbey
A particular feature of the congress is its close integration of scientific research and practical application. In the Healing Forest at Göttweig Abbey, participants will experience through excursions and interactive workshops how evidence-based findings can be directly translated into therapeutic, preventive and health-promoting programmes. The Healing Forest serves as an Austrian best-practice example and a hands-on living laboratory for Forest Therapy.
International Platform for Networking and Innovation
The ISFT Congress is aimed at researchers, educators, healthcare professionals, therapists, doctors, psychologists, forestry experts, tourism professionals and policymakers. At the same time, it offers Austrian institutions and professionals in particular a unique opportunity to meet leading international experts, gain first-hand insights into the latest scientific developments and take away valuable inspiration for the further development of evidence-based, nature-based health services in Austria.
With its unique combination of internationally leading research, interdisciplinary exchange and practice-oriented knowledge transfer, the ISFT Congress 2026 is setting new standards for the future of Forest Therapy and once again positioning Krems as an international hub for forests, health and innovation.