Biodiversa+ 2024: A year in review

BiodivNBS results

The BiodivNBS call attracted a remarkable response, and after a rigorous evaluation process, 34 groundbreaking research projects were selected for funding, with a budget of over €40 million to advance Nature-Based Solutions (NbS).

BiodivTransform launch

In September, we launched a new call on “Biodiversity and Transformative Change” (BiodivTransform). The application window closed in early November. Results are expected in mid-February, with selected projects moving to Step 2 for full proposals..

Progress report

Our first two years provided key findings for harmonising transnational biodiversity monitoring schemes. The Strategic Biodiversity Monitoring Governance Document (Phase II) summarises these progresses with key recommendations.

Monitoring pilots

We launch pilot projects to test and refine biodiversity monitoring approaches across Europe. Discover the outcomes of the first wave of three pilots and learn about the three new pilots launched this year.

Novel technologies

We surveyed our Partners on five novel monitoring technologies. What are they using, and for what purposes? What are the opportunities and barriers for upscaling their use? We highlight key trends and insights from the survey.

Sharing sessions

We’ve launched a webinar series on monitoring protocols where experts share their experiences, from crafting protocols to real-world applications. The first sessions covered soil and coralligenous habitats.

NbS uptake report

We released a report exploring ways to foster the uptake of knowledge on NbS. We delve into the essential steps to bridge the gap between research and real-world application, offering practical insights and inspiring case studies. 

Roundtable

At the SRI Congress in June, we joined other EU Partnerships to discuss NbS in sustainability. Key points included policy integration, transdisciplinary approaches, and addressing values and governance.

NetworkNature event

In September, we joined the NetworkNature Taskforces Cluster Meeting to focus on collaboration and standardisation to scale NbS, and attended its Annual Event, themed “Busting Myths: People with Nature”.

NbS knowledge gaps

Through NetworkNature, we have expanded the NbS Knowledge Gaps Database. It now covers 619 gaps, categorised by types & themes, offering refined screening and enhanced insights.

Desk study

Can Nature-based Solutions (NbS) drive transformative change? We review case studies from grey and peer-reviewed literature to explore the extent to which NbS support transformative change.

Science-Policy Forum

In April, we held our 2d Science-Policy Forum in Tallinn (Estonia). We focused on defining the current state of biodiversity monitoring across scales, providing a platform for dialogue between knowledge holders/providers and policy communities.

Knowledge Hub

To address the need for science-based guidance on ecosystem restoration, 52 experts from EU projects have constituted the BiodivRestore Knowledge hub to help countries develop and implement national restoration plans.

Policy briefs

Based on our BiodivHealth projects, three new policy briefs explore the links between biodiversity and the health of humans, animals, and plants. They provide actionable insights and policy recommendations for a healthier planet.

Mapping

To better understand the landscape of research on biodiversity and transformative change, we analysed Web of Science data from 2013 to 2023. Our analysis identifies key topics, trends, and the structure of research collaborations.

IPBES

Building on our successful track record since 2019, we, through two of our partners, have been selected by IPBES to continue hosting the technical support unit on knowledge generation catalysis.

Webinar

In June, we hosted a webinar on the scoping process for the second IPBES global assessment of biodiversity and ecosystem services. We explored takeaways from the first assessment and the new scoping report.

COP16

We participated in COP16, co-hosting two side events alongside other Horizon Europe-funded projects: CO-OP4CBD, BioAgora, and RESPIN. We addressed key questions on aligning scientific knowledge with political needs.