The International Association for Lichenology (IAL) is a worldwide union of scientists and others interested in theoretical and practical studies of lichens: its composition and structure, history, classification, distribution, ecology, dynamics, management and uses in the landscape. The main goals of the IAL are to facilitate personal contacts among lichenologists all over the world and to promote research in all aspects of lichenology and its applications.
Our mission is to:
- promote research and education in lichenology
- promote the publication of research results in lichenology
- facilitate scientific and personal contacts among lichenologists of all countries
- promote applications of lichenology
- increase awareness of and to disseminate knowledge about lichens
Toward these ends we hold meetings and excursions, sponsor publications, and provide mechanisms for lichenologists to communicate with each other and the world at large.