“Mapping of international and multiregional research collaboration on biodiversity scenarios”
This mapping aims to analyse international and multi-regional research collaboration networks on biodiversity scenarios, with a specific focus on the European Research Area (ERA), BiodivERsA, and the Belmont Forum. Bibliographic analysis was employed to map co-authorship networks, temporal trends, geographical footprints, and research domains.
Key Findings:
- Research priorities: The preferred research topics within biodiversity scenarios are Environmental Sciences and Ecology, with a dual focus on basic and applied science. Biodiversity & Conservation, and Science & Technology are also priority disciplines.
- Scientific production: Publications on biodiversity scenarios have increased dramatically in the last decade for all regions. The USA and European countries dominate these publications, while Asian, African, and Latin American countries, with the exception of Brazil, are underrepresented.
- Collaboration networks: Collaborations between European and North American countries dominate the publication mapping. Italy, a non-BiodivERsA member, has a significant scientific production in the biodiversity field and collaborates frequently with the ERA. European countries, led by Spain, dominate Belmont Forum collaborations.
- Geographic disparity: Despite efforts to establish collaborations with biodiversity hotspot countries, these relationships are scarce, particularly for the ERA and BiodivERsA. This mismatch between the geographic location of biodiversity hotspots and research centers can hinder conservation efforts.
To address the geographic disparity, fostering collaborations with “missing partners” in biodiversity hotspot countries is essential. This will ensure that research efforts align with the most pressing conservation needs and contribute to effective biodiversity protection.