Increase investment in biodiversity research and monitoring for improved policy evaluation#
Description#
General description
Effective marine biodiversity management and conservation require a robust knowledge base built on comprehensive research and monitoring efforts. However, current gaps in data collection, ecosystem assessments, and long-term monitoring hinder informed decision-making and policy evaluation. This solution proposes increasing investment in biodiversity research and monitoring to develop a comprehensive knowledge base that supports evidence-based policymaking and adaptive management strategies. Enhanced funding will facilitate data collection, analysis, and dissemination, enabling policymakers to better assess progress toward biodiversity targets and refine conservation strategies accordingly.
Main purpose To strengthen the evidence base for biodiversity policymaking, the following actions are recommended:
Increase funding for biodiversity research programs to fill critical knowledge gaps.
Expand monitoring initiatives to provide long-term data on marine ecosystem health and trends.
Enhance collaboration among research institutions, policymakers, and stakeholders to improve data accessibility and usability.
Barriers addressed
Insufficient data availability:
Lack of comprehensive and consistent biodiversity data across marine areas.
Difficulty in evaluating policies and limited knowledge on ecosystem trends due to fragmented monitoring efforts.
Limited access to data for policymakers and stakeholders.
Inadequate funding and resources:
Limited financial resources allocated to biodiversity research and monitoring programs.
Insufficient investment in advanced monitoring technologies and methodologies.
Dependence on short-term project-based funding, leading to data discontinuities.
Coordination challenges:
Weak integration of research outputs into policy processes.
Limited collaboration between scientific institutions, government agencies, and industry stakeholders.
Lack of standardized methodologies for biodiversity assessments across jurisdictions.
Policy relevance
This solution directly aligns with the EUBS2030 and the MSFD, both of which emphasize the need for improved knowledge and data to achieve GES for marine waters. Increased investment in research and monitoring will support the implementation of the EBA promoted by the MSP Directive and contribute to the effective evaluation of biodiversity policies. Moreover, it will enhance compliance with international commitments, such as the CBD and regional sea conventions, by ensuring the availability of reliable data for informed decision-making.
Implementation
Expanding research programs: Increase funding and support for biodiversity research projects, focusing on priority areas such as habitat restoration, species conservation, and climate change adaptation.
Enhancing monitoring infrastructure: Invest in advanced monitoring technologies, such as remote sensing, automated data collection systems, and citizen science initiatives to improve data coverage and quality.
Strengthening data management and sharing: Develop centralized data repositories and enhance interoperability between existing platforms to facilitate access to biodiversity information for policymakers and stakeholders.
Impact and effort
Impact: Very High
This solution has the potential to significantly enhance biodiversity conservation efforts by providing a comprehensive knowledge base that informs policy decisions, supports adaptive management, and ensures long-term sustainability of marine ecosystems. Improved data availability and integration will lead to more effective implementation of biodiversity objectives at national and regional levels.
Required effort: Moderate
Implementing this solution requires moderate effort, involving financial investments, stakeholder collaboration, and technological advancements. While initial investments in infrastructure and capacity building may be substantial, the long-term benefits of informed policymaking and efficient biodiversity management will outweigh the costs.
Investments in biodiversity research and monitoring: good practices
Funding programs such as the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) provide financial support for biodiversity research and monitoring projects.
The use of standard methodologies for biodiversity assessments, such as those promoted by the MSFD, ensures consistency and comparability of data across countries.
The Regional Seas Conventions (HELCOM, OSPAR, Barcelona Convention and Bucharest Convention serve as frameworks for integrating biodiversity research and monitoring across countries.
The European Commission’s biodiversity platform facilitates the transfer and implementation of biodiversity goals into national policies, providing guidance and monitoring mechanisms.
Germany data-sharing platforms: Implementation of biodiversity data-sharing platforms to enhance policy evaluation and foster collaboration between governmental and research institutions.
France: Development of long-term biodiversity monitoring programs in coastal and marine protected areas, ensuring data availability for adaptive management strategies.
HELCOM Data and Map Service: The HELCOM data portal provides a centralized platform for storing and accessing marine environmental data, facilitating cross-border collaboration and evidence-based decision-making for biodiversity protection and MSP processes.