Monitoring Europe’s diverse ecosystems, encompassing everything from avifauna to soil biomes, presents significant challenges, one of which lies in the inherent heterogeneity of these environments.
The importance of biodiversity monitoring communities
As part of its broader goal to build a transnational network of harmonised biodiversity monitoring schemes, Biodiversa+ has identified biodiversity monitoring communities as a crucial level for collaboration and harmonisation. These dedicated groups play a key role in monitoring specific taxa or habitats, and their efforts contribute significantly to conservation initiatives.
But communities operate from diverse starting points. Their existing monitoring schemes and traditions vary significantly, as do their data collection and analysis techniques. While preserving flexibility is paramount to adapt to diverse biogeographical conditions, there is a need for increased standardisation (sampling procedure, vocabularies, measurement techniques…) to ensure interoperability and the ability to combine data from different groups. The establishment of long-term, Europe-wide coordination groups can also facilitate communication and collaboration between communities, share best practices, and address broader concerns.
We need your input!
Biodiversa+ aims to foster collaboration and harmonisation across communities to strengthen the overall effectiveness of biodiversity monitoring in Europe.
Are you involved in any biodiversity monitoring communities, or do you know of any such groups?
By sharing your knowledge, you will help us map the monitoring landscape, identify opportunities for collaboration, and strengthen coordination for improved monitoring!
If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at michelle.silva-del-pozo@ofb.gouv.fr.
