DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e194246

Authors: Carla Stoyanova, Teodor Metodiev

Abstract: This document is a deliverable for the PollinERA project, funded under the European Union’s Horizon Europe (HE) Research and Innovation Action under grant agreement No. 101135005. The purpose of this document is to present a detailed Plan for the Exploitation and Dissemination of Results (PEDR) of the PollinERA project, along with a communication strategy (CS), based on the preliminary plans in Section 2.2 of the PollinERA proposal.

HTML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e194245

Authors: Michael Rubinigg

Abstract: This Data Management Plan (DMP), prepared as part of the deliverables of the EC REA (Grant Agreement 10135005) funded project “Understanding pesticide-pollinator interactions to support EU environmental risk assessment and policy” (PollinERA), represents a plan for data management agreed upon by the PollinERA consortium. This plan is in line with the policies of the consortium partner’s organisations, as defined by the organisation’s data management policies, and with the requirements of the sponsor, as defined in the Horizon Europe research and innovation funding programme.

HTML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e194231

Authors: Carla Stoyanova, Teodor Metodiev, Denitsa Peneva, Kremena Kaleva

Abstract: This document is a deliverable for the PollinERA project, funded under the European Union’s Horizon Europe Research and Innovation Action under grant agreement No. 101135005. The aim of this document is to present the PollinERA branding, visual identity and website as key tools in the project’s communication and dissemination activities.

HTML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e182926

Authors: Richard Marijnissen, Dirk S. van Maren, Luis Garrote, David Santillan, Ana Iglesias, Subbiah Bharathi, Xavier Sánchez-Artús, Vicente Gracia, Manuel Espino, Agustín Sánchez-Arcilla, Luciana Villa Castrillon, Benjamin Jacob, Johannes Pein, Wei Chen, Joanna Staneva, Pushpa Dissanayake, Dennis Oberrecht, Andreas Wurpts, Reinier Schrijvershof, R.J.A van Weerdenburg, Frederica Zennaro, Fabienne Horneman, Elisa Furlan, Silvia Torresan, Andrea Critto, Christophe Briere, Julien Fornasari, Rémi Caillibotte, Claire Mahe, Alexis Beudin, Rosaria Ester Musumeci, Massimiliano Marino, Sofia Nasca, Ahmad Alkharoubi, Luca Cavallaro, Enrico Foti, Nikolay Valchev, Petya Eftimova, Elitsa Hineva, Nataliya Andreeva, Grzegorz Różyński, Morgane Jolivet, Thomas Faraon, Olivier Boutron, Mathis Cathala

Abstract: Within this portfolio of restoration interventions, we present a range of model-based projections assessing the impact of large-scale Nature-based Solutions (NbS) on enhancing Eco System Services (ESS) in various coastal systems. This deliverable applies these models to detail how these systems respond to climate change and nature-based interventions intended to mitigate climate change impacts under different Sea Level Rise (SLR) scenarios. The models range from hydro-morphological simulations of future conditions to a machinelearning approach, all aimed at demonstrating the ESS provided by restoration in the future.

HTML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e182902

Authors: Manuel Espino, Vicente Gracia, Xavier Sánchez-Artús, Maria Liste, Luis Garrote, David Santillan, Ivan Federico, Causio Salvatore, Fabienne Horneman, Silvia Torresan, Elisa Furlan, Grzegorz Różyński, Luciana Villa Castrillon, Joanna Staneva, Benjamin Jacob, Wei Chen, Bas van Maren, Richard Marijnissen, Andreas Wurpts, Pushpa Dissanayake, Rosaria Ester Musumeci, Massimiliano Marino, Petya Eftimova, Nikolay Valchev, Elitsa Hineva, Nataliya Andreeva, Bogdan Prodanov, Rémi Caillibotte, Christophe Briere, Soazig Mahe, Julien Fornasari, Agustín Sánchez-Arcilla

Abstract: nature-based approaches, while reinforcing connectivity from river basins to the sea. Deliverable D2.2 is the second technical output of Work Package 2 (WP2), building upon the storm-based modelling work presented in D2.1. While D2.1 focused on current hazard conditions and model calibration, this deliverable explores future scenarios of sea level rise, changing sediment dynamics, and increasing storm impacts. It evaluates the long-term performance of Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) through integrated hydromorpho-eco modelling and assesses their contribution to ESS delivery across seven REST-COAST pilot sites. This report supports the development of adaptive restoration strategies tailored to local contexts, while contributing to broader coastal management frameworks under climate change. By combining physical process modelling with ecological indicators and socio-economic relevance, D2.2 provides robust evidence to guide nature-based adaptation pathways across Europe’s diverse coastal systems.

HTML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e182018

Authors: Manuel Espino, Luis Garrote, David Santillan, Xavier Sánchez-Artús, Vicente Gracia, Maria Liste, Marc Mestres, Manel Grifoll, Marta Balsells, Joanna Staneva, Benjamin Jacob, Wei Chen, Luciana Villa, Pushpa Dissanayake, Mindert de Vries, Ivan Federico, Causio Salvatore, Olivier Boutron, Christophe Briere, Rémi Caillibotte, Agustín Sánchez-Arcilla

Abstract: The REST-COAST project (Large-scale RESToration of COASTal ecosystems through rivers to sea connectivity) is a Horizon 2020 research initiative funded by the European Commission under Grant Agreement No. 101037097. Its overarching aim is to restore coastal ecosystems across Europe by advancing science-based approaches to hazard mitigation and resilience, with a strong emphasis on nature-based solutions (NbS) and the sustainable delivery of ecosystem services (ESS). To meet this objective, the project adopts a multidisciplinary approach that combines modelling, monitoring, restoration, governance, and finance. Scientific development is tightly linked to practical implementation through a network of pilot sites representing diverse coastal typologies and pressures. These sites serve as laboratories for testing and validating coupled hydro-morpho-eco models capable of simulating the role of natural ecosystems in reducing risks such as coastal flooding, erosion, and saline intrusion. This deliverable, D2.1, documents the modelling work conducted under Task 2.1, focusing on present-day storm conditions. It presents the model configurations, validation procedures, and simulation outcomes used to evaluate the risk reduction potential of NbS across seven pilot sites. The work includes detailed analysis of hydrodynamic and morphodynamic processes, sediment transport, and vegetation interactions, as well as the derivation of site-specific ESS indicators. The models are tailored to local physical settings and restoration goals, and have been validated against real storm events using field and remote sensing data. D2.1 provides a robust technical foundation for assessing the effectiveness and operational relevance of ecosystem-based approaches to coastal risk management. The methods and results presented here contribute to the broader REST-COAST objective of supporting adaptive, transferable, and evidence-based coastal restoration strategies throughout Europe.

HTML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e173693

Authors: Tom Breeze, W. Daniel Kissling, Maria Lumbierres, Joana Santana, Alejandra Morán-Ordóñez, Roy Van Grunsven, Tim Hirsch, Tree Robionson, Simon Potts, Ian McCallum, Ute Jandt, Cesar Capinha, Andres Marmol-Guijarro, Jessica Junker, Pavel Stoev, Camino Liquete, Henrique M. Pereira

Abstract: Although biodiversity monitoring costs are widely cited as a constraint, there have been very few assessments of these costs and even fewer studies have assessed the potential benefits of this monitoring. Here, we synthesise available evidence, alongside a comprehensive assessment of the costs of proposed biodiversity monitoring to explore the relative costs, benefits risks and opportunities in biodiversity monitoring. We find that the costs of biodiversity monitoring, €0.5bn-€3.6bn/year, are greatly outweighed by the combined economic benefits and opportunities arising from the availability of co-ordinated, high-quality data, which are estimated to be >€25.2bn/year.

HTML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e168447

Authors: David Kinyonyi, Johnson Mwebaze

Abstract: This research focused on the development of a cost-effective IoT-enabled smart agriculture system meant to address the specific challenges that smallholder farmers are facing in Butaleja District (Uganda). The challenges included limited resources, dependence on traditional farming methods and vulnerability to climate change. The proposed system integrated low-cost IoT sensors to monitor critical environmental parameters such as soil moisture, temperature and weather conditions combined with cloud-based and offline edge analytics. It further provided real-time actionable insights to farmers via SMS (Short Message Service) and user-friendly platforms enabling improved irrigation management, optimized resource usage and enhanced crop productivity. Usability was prioritized through designing the system with the ability to operate in low-connectivity environments and ensuring ease of usage for farmers with minimal technical expertise. The system’s design and functionality were validated through the execution of multiple simulations proving its ability to accurately monitor environmental parameters, predict when irrigation is to happen using a machine learning model ensuring efficient irrigation management. The simulation also highlighted the effectiveness of integrating SMS notifications and real-time analytics, ensuring accessibility for farmers with minimal technological expertise. By addressing the unique needs of smallholder farmers, the study offers a scalable, sustainable and impactful solution for transforming agriculture in resource-constrained regions with potential applications beyond Uganda. Future work is intended to explore scaling the system to diverse agricultural contexts, assessing its socio-economic impacts and integrating renewable energy solutions to enhance sustainability.

HTML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e160486

Authors: Rajapreethi Rajendran, Claus Weiland, Jonas Grieb, Soulaine Theocharides, Sam Leeflang, Wouter Addink, Sharif Islam

Abstract: The Distributed System for Scientific Collections (DiSSCo) is a research infrastructure to integrate European natural science collections (NSCs) digitally. The aim is to facilitate and enhance the access, management and analysis of collection assets in one unified digital collection. The Machine Annotation Services (MAS) are essential components of DiSSCo’s Digital Specimen Architecture (DSArch). These services automate the annotation of digital objects to enable labelling and categorisation of NSC's digital assets.To further advance this, a Machine Learning as a Service (MLaaS) approach was developed which provides researchers with the access to pre-trained machine-learning models for complex tasks, such as instance segmentation and morphological analysis of datasets. MLaaS enhances the DiSSCo’s scalability and flexibility and allows the integration of machine-learning tools in close alignment with the FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) principles.This study employs DiSSCO's MLaaS framework for the quantitative analysis of herbarium specimens. Machine-learning models, such as Mask R-CNN and YOLO11, are comparatively applied to detect and generate the pixel-level masks of plant organs in herbarium sheets. Subsequently, these models are used to reconstruct the scale in the herbarium sheet and to calculate the surface area of identified plant organs. The determination of quantitative characteristics of plant specimens, such as measuring leaf area or the timestamp of the floral transition, opens up herbarium data for reuse in the large prognosis platforms currently developed in the framework of the Common European Data Spaces. In this way, plant trait data mobilised from natural science collections can improve the predictive capability of the vegetation model components of climate-related data spaces.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e159547

Authors: Marianna Garfí, Kurt Ziegler-Rodriguez, Eva Gonzalez-Flo, Joan García

Abstract: In recent decades, interest in bio-based products has grown significantly due to rising concerns about eco-friendly and sustainable alternatives to synthetic polymers and conventional energy sources. These bio-derived materials have the potential to substitute products obtained from fossil fuels, including plastics, additives, colourants and energy carriers like hydrogen (H₂). Additionally, within the framework of a circular bioeconomy, bio-based products can help decrease waste generation, lessen environmental harm, and enhance the efficient use of resources (Chrispim et al., 2024).The EU Horizon 2020 PROMICON project has developed a Social Life Cycle Assessment (S-LCA) (ISO, 2024; UNEP, 2020) to evaluate the social implications along the life cycle of four bio-based products (additives, bioplastics, pigments, and hydrogen) generated by microbiomes.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e158692

Authors: Minmin Pan, Stamatina Roussou, Peter Lindblad, Jens Krömer

Abstract: Phototrophic microbial communities – groups of tiny organisms whose energy for growth comes from light – play a significant role in global primary production by absorbing carbon dioxide and nitrogen gas. With the growing challenges of energy demands and environmental concerns, researchers are exploring scientifically designed (synthetic) phototrophic communities as a promising alternative to traditional energy generation methods. These consortia can efficiently convert CO₂ and N₂ gases, along with water and solar energy, into bioenergy products, offering a potential solution to today’s energy and sustainability problems.In this context, the development of synthetic phototrophic communities has attracted increased attention due to their ability to divide tasks among different species, allowing them to function more efficiently and remain stable. However, challenges remain, particularly in maintaining balance among strains and ensuring stable performance in environments that do not replicate the complex natural conditions in which these consortia typically thrive.To address these challenges, recent PROMICON studies have focused on how cyanobacteria interact with purple nonsulfur bacteria (PNSB). These bacteria, including Rhodopseudomonas palustris (R. palustris), have shown potential in producing biohydrogen and lipids by capturing nitrogen in oxygen-free environments. Nevertheless, a key limitation is that they need a carbon-based food source (e.g., acetate) to produce energy. A promising approach to overcome this issue involves growing R. palustris with cyanobacteria, which can pull carbon dioxide from the air and turn it into the organic carbon that R. palustris needs to thrive.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e157339

Authors: Soulaine Theocharides, Sam Leeflang, Wouter Addink, Sharif Islam

Abstract: Biodiversity research relies on physical specimens stored in natural science collections, which serve as enduring reservoirs of data about organisms and their environments. However, these reservoirs remain siloed. The concept of Digital Specimen addresses the challenges posed by the vast amount of disconnected digital biodiversity data available today. The existing approach involves converting analogue records into digital replicas stored in local databases, leading to isolated and fragmented datasets that are difficult to integrate and utilise efficiently. The Digital Specimen aims to overcome this by establishing an interconnected network of digital objects on the Internet.Digital Specimens are FAIR Digital Objects (FDOs), structured digital entities that adhere to the FAIR principles: Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable. FDOs have the potential to enhance the accessibility and interoperability of data from natural science collections by providing unique identifiers, descriptive metadata, and defined operations. DiSSCo utilises the FDO framework to enhance the accessibility and interoperability of biodiversity research data from natural science collections. FDOs facilitate seamless data exchange by providing structured digital objects with unique identifiers, descriptive metadata, and defined operations. As part of making Digital Specimens FDOs, DiSSCO implemented FDO records, metadata records associated with a Persistent Identifier, which further enable machine actionability.A Digital Object repository was developed for the purposes of storing and acting upon digital specimens. Three technological pillars compose the repository: a relational database stores the latest version of the digital specimen and is used for retrieving specimens by their identifier; an indexing solution provides full search capabilities on digital specimens; and a document store holds previous versions of a digital specimen for provenance purposes. There are three ways a user may interact with the digital object repository: a REST API; a user-friendly web portal; and a DOIP server.To ingest data from multiple source systems, a harmonised data model was developed, called OpenDS. Built upon existing international standards like DarwinCore and ABCD, OpenDs accommodates complex structures necessary to capture information about multiple taxonomic identifications, events, agents, and relationships to other data sources. DiSSCo has decided to adapt the GBIF Unified Model (UM) for specimen data, ensuring interoperability and avoiding the development of potentially competing standards. By aligning with the GBIF UM, DiSSCo enhances interoperability with GBIF and promotes the establishment of a unified data modelling standard within the biodiversity community, facilitating seamless data exchange and integration with data aggregators like GBIF.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e147255

Authors: Joan García, Eva Gonzalez-Flo

Abstract: The widespread use of petrol-based plastics has led to an environmental problem, as these materials are prone to abandonment, breaking down into microplastics and nanoplastics that harm living organisms. While biodegradable plastics are seen as a solution, their global production still remains modest at 1.3 million tons in 2022 (vs. 400 million tons of petrol-based plastics). Moreover, many such plastics fail to biodegrade efficiently under all environmental conditions (marine, soil, rivers, etc.). Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) are a type of bioplastics naturally produced by microorganisms. They are a promising alternative because they degrade completely in soil, water, and marine environments. However, their industrial production is still limited and needs further research and investment to scale up.Commercially produced PHA is nowadays highly energy-intensive and relies heavily on organic raw materials and clean water, which conflicts with the EU’s goals for a circular, sustainable economy. The current production process is far away from the zero emissions neutral carbon strategy. The EU Horizon 2020 PROMICON project has developed an innovative method that uses photosynthetic microorganisms (cyanobacteria) to produce PHA efficiently. This process uses sunlight, absorbs CO2, and requires minimal organic resources, aligning perfectly with EU bioeconomy goals.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e144611

Authors: Guy Ziv, Catriona Willoughby, Denise Hick, Arjan Gosal, Rosemary Wool, Chunhui Li, Jiaqi Ge, Paul Evans, Michael Beckmann, Anne Paulus, Meike Will, Birgit Mueller, Tomáš Václavík, Tomáš Čejka, Ruth Delzeit, Ornella Dellaccio, Jon Stenning, Anna Cord, Stephanie Roilo, Sanja Brdar, Joan Masó, Yoni Gavish, Danny Hooftman, James Bullock

Abstract: This Deliverable provides a roadmap to expansion of BESTMAP towards a operational pan-European modelling platform, as well as explore via pilot analyses several areas for improvement and future research. Considering new case studies, we analyse the locations where models parameterized in those regions can transfer to cover the most area. We conclude that in future case studies, they should be located in northern Spain, north-west Italy, central Italy, Montenegro/Albania, and Bulgaria. Testing if one can model water quality at the European scale, our modelling shows the NDR model (used in BESTMAP CS work) has generally good performance at EU scale, despite it being a rather simple process-based model. There is an overestimation of Nitrogen at low N, and underestimation of Phosphate at high P, which need to be considered in future work.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e144610

Authors: Cristina Domingo-Marimon, Joan Maso

Abstract: The BESTMAP dashboard, a pivotal element of the H2020 BESTMAP project, stands as a vital instrument for disseminating project findings and fostering informed decision-making processes. This platform enables exploration, analysis, and reporting on the outcomes of biophysical models, offering users valuable insights into various environmental factors. This deliverable offers a comprehensive overview of the dashboard's architecture, outlining its seamless integration into diverse environments. It also provides updates on the dashboard's final status, its content, and the creation of e-learning courses aimed at guiding users in effectively utilizing the tools and features available within the dashboard.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e144609

Authors: Pavel Stoev, Boris Barov, Gabriela Popova, Maria Mincheva, Milica Trajković, Dajana Vujaklija, Guy Ziv, Jodi Gunning, Michael Beckmann, Anne Paulus, James Bullock, Paul Evans, Tomáš Václavík, Cristina Domingo-Marimon, Anna Cord, Stephanie Roilo

Abstract: In order to enhance the visibility of BESTMAP project and its outcomes and to explore potential common activities and complementarities with other projects, initiatives, networks, and policy makers at EU level, the Plan of Engagement is developed and it will act as the strategy for creating a bridge between BESTMAP and all the other relevant projects or institutions. This document is an updated version of the Milestone 12 Plan of Engagement and it will serve as a strategic channel of relationship-building processes with identified related parties from now on. External relationships and engagement with relevant parties is a continuous process between BESTMAP and other parties. Therefore, the Plan of Engagement is considered as a living document that will be extended and changed as the engagement with all parties evolved.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e144185

Authors: Tomáš Čejka, Paul Evans, James Bullock, Guy Ziv, Stephanie Roilo, Tomáš Václavík

Abstract: Insights into potential policy outcomes may be biased if based on an unrepresentative selection of case study information. As case studies are a central element of the BESTMAP project, evaluating their representativeness in the wider EU context is one of the major tasks of WP5 - Upscaling. In this Deliverable, we first briefly describe the principles of meta-models of ecosystem services and biodiversity that were developed as part of Task 5.2 to upscale predictions of ecosystem services beyond case studies. Second, we report on the development of a distance metric used to determine case study representativeness, i.e. the degree of similarity in conditions between BESTMAP case studies and NUTS3 regions across Europe. Third, we describe the transferability diagrams that we used to obtain the relationship between the predictive power of the meta-models and the distance metric, which were then used to determine the threshold within the distance metric (similarity of conditions) that corresponds to a model prediction that we considered reliable (R 2>0.5 ). Fourth, for each ecosystem service and biodiversity, we present a series of transferability maps based on the set threshold to identify the transferability potential of BESTMAP models to NUTS3 regions across Europe. Finally, we discuss the limitations and challenges of our approach used to determine case study representativeness and the transferability potential of ecosystem service models.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e144184

Authors: Gabriela Popova, Josie McCulloch, Jiaqi Ge, Paul Evans

Abstract: This document presents the generalised linear model (GLM) and agent-based model (ABM) that were developed in the H2020 project BESTMAP to model and predict the uptake of Agri-Environmental Schemes (AES) in the European Union. The deliverable is based on the work done in Work Package 4.1 (WP4.1) – Agent-Based Modelling and Analysis of BESTMAP. This deliverable comprises a description of the particular implementation of the ABM including a discussion of how and why the European Union model differs from the case study-specific models described in Deliverable 4.1. The link to the model’s code on GitLab is provided. Furthermore, data requirements and potential limitations with respect to data accessibility are outlined. The ABM code is accompanied by a model description in a structured form following the ODD+D protocol (Müller et al., 2013) in the Appendix. The deliverable focuses on the model development and how the GLM and ABM are linked. As an outlook, research questions that can be answered with the models, model limitations and potential further extensions are discussed. Additionally, it is briefly discussed how the ABM outputs will enhance the biophysical modelling upscaling, which is the other part of Task 5.2

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e144183

Authors: Gabriela Popova, Paul Evans, Tomáš Čejka, Tomáš Václavík, Guy Ziv, Stephanie Roilo, James Bullock

Abstract: In this Deliverable, the outputs from the BESTMAP biodiversity and ESS models, necessary for this Deliverable, are briefly described. Second, the data used for meta-modelling is listed. Third, the process behind meta-modelling - the main focus of this Deliverable - is described in detail, specifying the logic of the technique, the steps that were taken within the context of this work, and how the models were fitted and tested. Fourth, we present the results of the meta-models in terms of the number of times different predictors were significant, to give an idea of the important predictors. Finally, the challenges that were faced are discussed, as well as the final potential uses for the outputs.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e144087

Authors: Gabriela Popova, Tomáš Václavík, Tomáš Čejka, Marek Bednář, Meike Will, Stephanie Roilo, Michael Beckmann, Anne Paulus, Katharina Schneider, Bartosz Bartkowski, Nastasija Grujic, Sanja Brdar, Predrag Lugonja, Cristina Domingo-Marimon, Annelies Broekman, Rosemary Wool, Arjan Gosal, Chunhui Li, George Breckenridge, Jodi Gunning, Guy Ziv

Abstract: This document provides a summary of the systematic analyses conducted across BESTMAP five CS as part of the activities in Work Packages (WP) 1, 2, 3 and 4. First, we describe the main qualitative findings obtained from farmers during the semi-structured interview campaigns regarding their attitudes towards the implementation of agri-environmental schemes (AES). Second, we elaborate on the results from the follow-up online questionnaire which included the Discrete Choice Experiment (DCE) to investigate farmers’ personal views, socio-economic background and especially their preferences for specific AES contract characteristics which were subsequently used to inform the parameterization of CS agentbased models (ABMs). Third, we summarise the similarities and differences in the types of farms that occur in each CS, using the Farming System Archetypes typology based on several categories of farm specialisation and economic size. Fourth, we quantify the main results of the biophysical models of WP3 tailored specifically for each CS, comparing the values of biodiversity and ecosystem services calculated for the scenario of the current AES implementation with ecosystem service values calculated for a scenario simulating no AES adoption. Finally, we synthesise the main findings of the ABMs developed in WP4, specifically investigating the effects of four AES policy scenarios (advisory support, high payment rates, short contracts and low bureaucracy) as compared to the status-quo scenario of the current AES adoption rates

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e144086

Authors: Gabriela Popova, Cristina Domingo-Marimon, Stephanie Roilo, Michael Beckmann, Anne Paulus, Katharina Schneider, Tomáš Václavík, Arjan Gosal, Rosemary Wool, George Breckenridge, Jodi Gunning, Guy Ziv

Abstract: Most of the agricultural policies, such as the new CAP, or the European Union Sustainable Development Goals, already present their list of associated indicators to monitor impacts. As BESTMAP biophysical models aim to map the impacts of these types of policies, each of the model outputs have a range of associated policy indicators. This deliverable includes the results of an exhaustive review of policy indicators from different sources linked to agricultural practices, associated with or translated to BESTMAP model results. In some cases, BESTMAP models return an output that can be directly considered an indicator. In other cases, BESTMAP model results can support partially existing indicators.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e144085

Authors: Gabriela Popova, Meike Will, Birgit Mueller, Chunhui Li, Jiaqi Ge, Nastasija Grujic

Abstract: This deliverable provides a report on the agent-based models (ABMs) for each of the case studies, developed in the Work Package 4 (WP4) – Agent-Based Modelling and Analysis of BESTMAP. In particular, it includes a description of how the models can be accessed and which input data is needed. This document is accompanied by a description of each case study model in a structured form (see Appendix) which follows the ODD+D protocol (Müller et al., 2013). Deviations from the main processes as described in Milestone M6 (First versions of ABMs for CS) are discussed for each case study.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e144084

Authors: Gabriela Popova, Michael Beckmann, Miene-Marie Gastinger, Birgit Mueller, Anne Paulus, Meike Will, Anna Cord, Stephanie Roilo, Cristina Domingo-Marimon, Fanny Langerwisch, Tomáš Václavík, Marek Bednář, Guy Ziv, Arjan Gosal

Abstract: The Case Study Base Layer, described in this deliverable, is a harmonised geospatial database spanning across the five case study areas of BESTMAP: South Moravia (Czech Republic), Mulde (Germany), Humber (Great Britain), Backa (Serbia), and Catalonia (Spain). It is based on the Preliminary Case Study Base Layer (MS3) and includes geospatial information on climatic and soil conditions, biodiversity, land use/land cover (including crop types), farm structure and socio-economic data. It serves as a base for biophysical ecosystem service (ES) models as well as socio-economic statistical models. Thereby, the Case Study Base Layer will be crucial for mapping Farming System Archetypes (FSAs) and for building a common agent-based modeling (ABM) framework across all case studies. This report accompanies the data in Deliverable D3.1 and describes the compilation, harmonization, meta-data structure, secure storage and access of case study baye layer data using the BESTMAP instance of the UFZ GeoNetwork.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e144083

Authors: Gabriela Popova, Michael Beckmann, Lena Friedrich, Miene-Marie Gastinger, Anne Paulus, Tomáš Václavík, Chunhui Li, Guy Ziv, Paul Evans

Abstract: The European Base Layer, described in this deliverable, is a harmonised geospatial database spanning across Europe. It builds upon the infrastructure created for the Case Study Base Layer (D3.1) and includes geospatial information on climatic and soil conditions, biodiversity, land use/land cover (including crop types) data. It serves as a base for all modeling activities in BESTMAP’s WP5 including biophysical ecosystem service (ES) models. Thereby, the European Base Layer will be crucial for mapping Farming System Archetypes (FSAs) and for building a common agent-based modeling (ABM) framework across Europe. This report accompanies the data in Deliverable D3.2 and describes the compilation, harmonization, meta-data structure, secure storage and access of case study Base Layer data using the BESTMAP instance of the UFZ GeoNetwork.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e140142

Authors: Elpida Besi, Georgia Chantzi, Florian Grossmann, Agustín Sánchez-Arcilla, Rositsa Stoeva

Abstract: Within the REST-COAST (Large scale RESToration of COASTal ecosystems through rivers to sea connectivity) project, the Organization of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC) is a partner focused on the Black Sea region, where the project has Foros Bay as a prominent Pilot Site. Nevertheless, the project features Pilot Sites across Europe spanning West Europe (Arcachon Bay, Rhone Delta and Ebro Delta), North Europe (Wadden Sea and Vistula Lagoon) and East-Central Europe (Venice lagoon, Sicily Lagoons and Nahal Dalia). The project, as summarised in this booklet, investigates the technical, financial, planning, management, governance, and engagement aspects required for large scale coastal restoration. Which technical possibilities are there? What are the political and financial hurdles? How can they be overcome? To find answers, we combine field data, numerical tools and stakeholder requirements to enhance the application of coastal restoration in the nine project Pilots and beyond. The present booklet reports the application of project insights to the Black Sea region and discusses how some of REST-COASTs strategies can be efficiently transferred there.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e132939

Authors: Matt von Konrat, Yarency Rodriguez, Colleen Bailey, Gilbert Gwilliam III, Christine Christian, Blanka Aguero, June Ahn, Zoe Albion, James Allen, Colin Bailey, Erryn Blake, Winnie Blake, Gwen Blake, Laura Briscoe, Jessica Budke, Thomas Campbell, Matt Chansler, Dina Clark, Robin Delapena, Michael Denslow, Shari Ellis, Elizabeth Ellwood, Belle Ens, Nkosi Evans, Alejandra Fabian, Wyatt Gaswick, Kate Golembiewski, Sharon Grant, Kimberly Hansen, Brittany Janney, Janeen Jones, Zachary Kachian, Lucia Kawasaki, Olivia Leek, Kacee Kellum, Crystal Maier, Austin Mast, Joann Martinec, Paul Mayer, Melissa Mladek, Ainun Nadhifah, Christopher Neefus, Mary Nodulman, Margaret Oliver, Kelsey Overberg, A. Townsend Peterson, Ayesha Qazi-Lampert, Carl Rothfels, Robert Salm, Dawn Schreiner, Matthew Schreiner, Eric Tepe, Maureen Turcatel, Amelia Vega, Heaven Wade, Dianne Weinand, Kate Webbink, Todd Widhelm, Miranda Zwingelberg

Abstract: A comprehensive overview of volunteer-driven public programs focused on activities to enhance natural history collections (NHCs) is provided. The initiative revolves around the WeDigBio events and the Collections Club at the Field Museum, aiming to deepen the public's connection with scientific collections, enhance participatory science, and improve data associated with natural history specimens. The implementation and journey of these programs are outlined, including surveys conducted from 2015 through 2021 to gauge participant motivation, satisfaction, and the impact of these events on public engagement with NHCs. Results show trends in on-site and virtual volunteer participation over the years, especially during the peak period of the COVID-19 pandemic. The majority of participants expressed high satisfaction, indicating a willingness to continue participating in similar activities. The surveys revealed a shift towards more altruistic motivations for participation over time, with increased emphasis on supporting the Field Museum and contributing to the scientific community. The success of participatory science events demonstrates the potential of volunteer-driven programs to contribute meaningfully to the preservation, digitisation, and understanding of biodiversity collections, ultimately transforming spectators into stewards of natural history. From 2015 to present participants celebrate a significant milestone, with over a thousand community scientists contributing to the inventorying, collection care, curation, databasing, or transcription of 286,071 specimens, objects or records. We also discuss accuracy and quality control as well as a checklist and recommendations for similar activities.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e130555

Authors: Toke Thomas Høye, Pavel Stoev, Pierre Bonnet, W. Daniel Kissling

Abstract: The MAMBO project is developing novel monitoring tools to enhance knowledge of the state of European biodiversity. Through its demonstration sites and stakeholder engagement, MAMBO is showcasing its new technologies' effectiveness and added value. It thus provides critical input on how biodiversity-related monitoring efforts can be coordinated at the EU level. As such, MAMBO has the potential to improve the ecological monitoring landscape in Europe and beyond substantially. MAMBO contributes to the aims of the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 by ensuring better coordination and streamlining of biodiversity observations in Europe.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e129447

Authors: Néstor Fernández, José Manuel Álvarez-Martínez, Lluís Brotons, Ana Ceia-Hasse, Marcel Buchhorn, César Capinha, Benoît O. L. Demars, Carlos Guerra, Ute Jandt, Borja Jimenez-Alfaro, W. Daniel Kissling, Maria Lumbierres, Andres Marmol-Guijarro, Henrique M. Pereira, Anne Lyche Solheim, Judy Shamoun-Baranes, Bruno Smets

Abstract: This report discusses the potential synergies of the EBVs developed in each showcase, in conjunction with existing environmental policies, for a comprehensive assessment of European biodiversity.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e128926

Authors: Irene Calderon Sanou, Carlos Guerra, Graciela Rusch, Sergei Põlme, Joachim Maes, Néstor Fernández

Abstract: The Deliverable discusses the critical role of soil in supporting terrestrial ecosystems, agriculture, and global climate regulation. It highlights that a significant portion of European soils are currently unhealthy, which has far-reaching consequences, including risks to human health, the environment, and the economy. Soil degradation affects food security, water quality, climate change, and biodiversity. It also emphasizes the importance of soil monitoring in Europe to ensure sustainable land management, preserve biodiversity, and mitigate environmental challenges. Healthy soils are essential for agriculture, food security, and climate resilience. The European Union (EU) recognizes the importance of soil health in addressing the food needs of a growing global population increasing the need for improved soil monitoring. It also discusses the role of advanced remote sensing technologies in soil monitoring and mentions initiatives and projects focused on soil biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. This Deliverable highlights the showcase in soil restoration and climate change mitigation that is aimed at developing soil essential biodiversity variables to test the capacity of current datasets and monitoring frameworks to provide relevant information on the distribution and future trends of key soil biodiversity variables. The development process also stakeholder engagement in the context of selecting essential biodiversity variables (EBVs). Two main approaches were used: a working group involving researchers and targeted meetings with institutional stakeholders. Key meetings were held with stakeholders from organizations such as the European Environmental Agency, the Joint Research Center, and German soil and biodiversity monitoring agencies. These meetings aimed to gather input and insights on the selection of EBVs. The stakeholder engagement process revealed three key points: i) the importance of using readily available and open data to ensure data continuity and promote transparency and accessibility (this includes data from sources like the European Soil Data Centre (ESDAC) and GBIF, as well as point data from the LUCAS sampling framework); ii) the need for diversity in modeling approaches, incorporating multiple data sources and levels of expertise (the goal is to showcase the potential use of existing information and allow various stakeholders to identify their roles in producing soil-based EBVs for different functions or ecosystem services); and iii) the importance of including climate and land use prediction data in modeling frameworks when possible. Overall, the stakeholder engagement process emphasized the significance of data accessibility, diverse modeling approaches, and the incorporation of relevant future data in the selection and development of essential biodiversity variables. Furthermore, the Deliverable discusses the existing gap in the EU's legal framework concerning soil management and highlights the proposed Soil Monitoring Law as a comprehensive framework to address this gap. The outcomes of this Deliverable align with several EU environmental policy initiatives, such as the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030, the Zero Pollution Action Plan, the Circular Economy Action Plan, and the Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability. Finally, it proceeds with the selection of essential biodiversity variables (EBVs) for soil-related monitoring within the EuropaBON initiative. Three primary soil-related EBVs have been chosen: 'Functional Composition of soil biota' and 'Community Biomass of soil microbes' and ‘Taxonomic diversity’. These EBVs belong to the 'Community Composition' class within the 'Terrestrial' realm category.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e128550

Authors: Martin Baptist, Richard Marijnissen, Grzegorz Różyński, Rosaria Ester Musumeci, Massimiliano Marino, Laura Borzi, Agata di Stefano, Morgane Jolivet, Alice Stocco, Fabienne Horneman, Silvia Rova, Silvia Torresan, Elisa Furlan, Caterina Dabalà, Francesca Coccon, Andrea Critto, Fabio Pranovi, Ferran Bertomeu, Carles Ibáñez, Nuno Caiola, Elitsa Hineva, Nataliya Andreeva, Petya Eftimova, Bogdan Prodanov, Valentina Doncheva, Nikolay Valchev, Shylee Berg, Mathis Cognat

Abstract: This deliverable presents the generation of EUNIS habitat maps for Europe as a whole and for each of the pilot areas in REST-COAST. Subsequently, it presents the assignment of semi-quantitative scores for the contribution of each EUNIS (sub)habitat to the five key ecosystem services applying the rank scale 0 (none), 1 (very low contribution), 2 (low contribution), 3 (medium contribution), 4 (high contribution) to 5 (very high contribution). It also describes the assignment of the IUCN Red List of Habitats to each of the depicted EUNIS (sub)habitats in the pilot areas. And finally, to assess coastal system behaviour and restoration effects on ecosystem services and biodiversity gains under climate change, a homogenised score card methodology is presented to overcome the problem of comparing minor changes (some percents) with major changes (tens of percents) in the total scores for ESS or BDV in each pilot area.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e128158

Authors: Helge Bruelheide, Ute Jandt, Néstor Fernández, Andres Marmol-Guijarro, Bruno Smets, Marcel Buchhorn, Lori Giagnacovo, Giorgia Milli, Borja Jimenez-Alfaro, Jose Manuel Álvarez-Martínez

Abstract: The report demonstrates the potential workflows to leverage monitoring data on biodiversity to assess the status of two selected habitats of the Habitats Directive, Nardus grasslands (EU habitats directive Annex I 6230*) and forest dominated by Fagus sylvatica on acidic soils (habitat 9110).

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e128109

Authors: Anne Lyche Solheim, Benoît O. L. Demars, Jannicke Moe, Sophie Mentzel, Jan-Erik Thrane, Jes Rasmussen, Benno Dillinger, Seppo Hellsten, Minna Kuoppala, Juha Riihimäki, Richard Johnson, Jens Fölster, Marit Mjelde

Abstract: This report provides a showcase of three essential biodiversity variables (EBVs) related to the EU Water Framework Directive (WFD) and possible synergies with other EU policies. The report consists of two major parts: the species level EBV on macrophyte species in Nordic lakes and the community condition EBVs for phytoplankton in lakes and benthic invertebrates in rivers based on their deviation from reference conditions measured by Ecological Quality Ratios (EQR-values). The macrophytes species modelling predicts species distribution for two species (Isoetes lacustris and Potamogeton lucens) selected from a dataset of more than 2000 lakes and close to 100 single species. The model is based on observations of each species occurrence and abiotic co-variates (alkalinity, temperature, phosphorus-concentration) from the same lakes identifying the niche for each species. The outputs of the model show all lakes where each of the species potentially can occur. The model is also used to predict impacts of nutrient pollution on the species distribution of each species, showing a clear reduction in their distribution range. The community condition EBVs are based on data reported annually by countries to the European level (EEA). The data are used to assess community condition and trends, showing a recent improvement of condition for water bodies that were in poor or bad condition in 2015, thereby demonstrating the positive effect of mitigation measure to nutrient and organic pollution. Interactive dashboards showing maps and timeseries are developed and fully accessible. Initial analysis of land-use effects shows a negative impact on the condition in areas with > 30% agriculture and > 10% urban areas.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e128042

Authors: Camino Liquete, Dimitrios Bormpoudakis, Joachim Maes, Ian McCallum, W. Daniel Kissling, Lluís Brotons, Tom Breeze, Alejandra Moran, Maria Lumbierres, Leonie Friedrich, Sergi Herrando, Anne Lyche Solheim, Miguel Fernandez, Néstor Fernández, Tim Hirsch, Laurence Carvalho, Petteri Vihervaara, Jessi Junker, Ivelina Georgieva, Ingolf Kühn, Roy Van Grunsven, Aino Lipsanen, Guillaume Body, Hilary Goodson, Jose Valdez, Aletta Bonn, Henrique M. Pereira

Abstract: Observations are key to understanding the state of nature, the drivers of biodiversity loss and the impacts on ecosystem services and ultimately on people. Many EU policies and initiatives call for unbiased, integrated and regularly updated data on biodiversity and ecosystem services. However, biodiversity monitoring efforts are spatially and temporally fragmented, taxonomically biased and not integrated across Europe. EuropaBON has addressed this gap by developing an EU-wide framework for biodiversity monitoring. With this deliverable, EuropaBON proposes the terms of reference for an EU Biodiversity Observation Coordination Centre (EBOCC), a permanent infrastructure that could coordinate and foster the generation and use of high quality data to underpin the biodiversity knowledge-base used across EU policies, providing guidance and trainings when necessary. Such a centre represents one of the key solutions to overcome the critical challenges of biodiversity monitoring in Europe. Having this integrated and continuous monitoring capacity would allow more timely and efficient interventions that would optimise our capacity to revert biodiversity loss and prevent environmental degradation. It would also increase the value-added to the data flows, reaching high-value outputs with some existing low-value inputs. This deliverable offers a critical analysis of the existing monitoring landscape in Europe, extracting key messages about the main challenges, lessons learned and possible solutions. Based on a comprehensive analysis of needs and, most importantly, on an inclusive consultation process, the deliverable designs an EBOCC that tackles the key biodiversity monitoring challenges. The proposal specifies the mission, the tasks, the most urgent topics, the main policies and the key stakeholders that the EBOCC should serve and focus on during the first stage of its implementation. It also includes detailed analyses about governance models and potential costs. With this proposal, EuropaBON fosters the setting up and testing an operational EBOCC that could address the urgent need for coordination, integration, harmonisation and strengthening of biodiversity data collection and analysis, in order to inform policy-making at local, national, European and international level.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e126021

Authors: Sergi Herrando, Sara Fraixedas, Guillem Pocull, Dani Villero, Anna Gamero, David Martí, Verena Keller, Petr Voříšek, Alena Klvaňová, Gabriel Gargallo, Lluís Brotons

Abstract: This deliverable shows, using farmland birds as a demonstrative case study, how the existing European network of bird monitoring schemes could be used to regularly update the distribution of terrestrial breeding birds across the whole of EU and neighbouring countries. In addition, it shows how changes in distribution could be assessed on frequent intervals suitable for informing on the achievement of EU environmental policy targets.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e121032

Authors: Jens Krömer, Gabriela Popova, Katja Bühler, Peter Lindblad

Abstract: The 2018 EU Bioeconomy Strategy aims to create a sustainable, circular, and low-emissions economy, based on the use of renewable biological resources. The strategy focuses on the development of new biobased products and markets, the promotion of sustainable and efficient use of resources, and the support of research, innovation, and skills development in the bioeconomy sector. The main objectives of the strategy are to: - Accelerate the deployment of bio-based products and services to reduce Europe’s dependence on fossil fuels and promote the transition to a circular economy; - Optimise the use of renewable biological resources to ensure food security, while also protecting the environment and biodiversity; - Promote sustainable and efficient use of natural resources, reduce waste, and minimize greenhouse gas emissions; - Develop innovative, sustainable, and competitive bio-based industries and value chains that create jobs and support economic growth, particularly in rural areas; - Support research, innovation, and skills development in the bioeconomy sector to drive technological advancements, enhance the competitiveness of the EU’s bio-based industries, and address societal challenges such as climate change, food security, and public health. The EU Horizon 2020 PROMICON project is a pioneering initiative that directly addresses the objectives of the 2018 EU Bioeconomy Strategy. By focusing on the production of biopolymers, energy carriers, feedstocks, and antimicrobial molecules from natural microbiomes, the project is promoting the sustainable production and use of renewable biological resources while also supporting research and innovation in the bioeconomy sector.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e118155

Authors: Teodor Metodiev, Gabriela Popova

Abstract: As a foundation of the future communication activities, a set of dissemination and branding tools and materials is crucial to be established within the first months of the project. Accordingly, a project logo and website were developed in the first 4 months of the PROMICON life-cycle, which form the backbone of both project branding and public visibility. In addition, various dissemination materials such as a PROMICON brochure and a poster were produced in high quality print versions for rising awareness at events. All of the materials can be found on the media center section of the website and are available to anyone interested. Document templates were also produced and made available to the consortium, in order to facilitate future dissemination and reporting activities such as letters, milestone and deliverable reports, as well as PowerPoint presentations. Accounts have been also set in two major social media channels, Twitter and Facebook, to ensure the widest possible impact and outreach of PROMICON related results, news and events, and to engage the interested parties in a virtual community. The long‐term impact of the project's results will be secured by maintaining the website for a total of 9 years – 4 years of the project duration and additional 5 years after the end of the PROMICON life-cycle.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e115410

Authors: Fausto Favero, Lieke Hüsken, Jochen Hinkel, Heleen Vreugdenhi, Umberto Pernice, Michael Sedlmeier

Abstract: This deliverable is the first contribution of Work Package 3 to the REST-COAST Project. The overarching purpose of REST-COAST is to provide the tools to address some of the key challenges faced by coastal ecosystems restoration. To achieve this objective, REST-COAST will improve coastal restoration practice and techniques through new hands-on restoration pilot projects, co-design effective governance arrangements and policies, and generate new tools and data for risk reduction assessment. In addition to these activities, Work Package 3 will design innovative financial arrangements and bankable business plans to support the implementation and thescaling up of coastal ecosystem restoration.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e115409

Authors: Gabriela Popova, Iliyana Demirova, Boris Barov

Abstract: The main goals of WP6 Dissemination, exploitation and social transformation tools, are to establish and maintain a distinct project identity, as well as to maximise the impact of project results by marketing and communicating them to stakeholders and the broader public. To ensure the efficient communication, Pensoft has developed a number of promotional materials reflecting the REST-COAST corporate identity, as well as a project website.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e115391

Authors: Ruth Delzeit, Simone Markoff, Alena Schmidt, Birgit Mueller, Meike Will, Chunhui Li, Jodi Gunning, Guy Ziv

Abstract: This deliverable report provides an integration guide on how information gained in BESTMAP’s agent-based model can be used in the standard economic model to improve the assessment of agricultural policies in the European Union. First, the models used in the BESTMAP are explained. The integration guide discusses in detail the preconditions and challenges when linking agent-based models with standard economic models such as partial and general equilibrium models. As a result of an expert workshop, six challenges are identified. The report also presents suggestions on how to make use of the finding and presents a way forward to integrate the two types of models.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e115390

Authors: Milica Trajković, Dajana Vujaklija, Pavel Stoev, Anna Sapundzhieva, Guy Ziv, Jodi Gunning

Abstract: Deliverable 6.3 Communication and Dissemination plan comprises actions, tools and channels to be used throughout the BESTMAP project scope. The purpose of this document is to outline the strategy, to define means of communication, tools and actions that will be done within the BESTMAP project in order to reach a wide range of stakeholders. This plan is a living document and will be officially updated in month 24 (D6.8). The first chapter of the Communication and Dissemination Plan explains the wider context of the project and highlights how the project duration and geographical scope impact the communication and dissemination activities. The second chapter presents communication and dissemination strategy including definition of objectives and target audiences, communication tools and key messages. The third chapter presents AGRIMODELS cluster, while the fourth chapter explains Social Media Strategy. The aim of the fifth chapter is to emphasize the importance of project partners’ involvement in communication and dissemination activities, and the sixth chapter showcases the list of relevant conferences for presentation of the BESTMAP project. Seventh chapter presents an action plan for communication and dissemination activities while a list of references can be found in chapter eight.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e115389

Authors: Stephanie Roilo, Anna Cord, Michael Beckmann, Anne Paulus, Katharina Schneider, Predrag Lugonja, Arjan Gosal, Rosemary Wool, George Breckenridge, Jodi Gunning, Guy Ziv

Abstract: This document describes the interrelationships between the ecosystem services, biodiversity and socio-economic outputs modelled in the Work Package 3 (WP3), to identify bundles of co-occurring services. Furthermore, this document presents an analysis of how different types of Agri-Environmental Measures (AEM) drive trade-offs and synergies among different services. The analysis spans two AEM adoption scenarios, one without AEM and one reflecting the current AEM adoption levels, for all five Case Studies (CS) of BESTMAP.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e115388

Authors: Guido Riembauer, Markus Metz, Guy Ziv, Jodi Gunning, James Bullock, Paul Evans, Tomáš Václavík, Fanny Langerwisch, Marek Bednář, Sanja Brdar, Predrag Lugonja

Abstract: This deliverable provides an overview of all work conducted in the context of Activity 5.3.1 (Developing remote sensing indicators) with respect to Farming System Archetype (FSA) Mapping (Task 5.3). This work is based on the FSA definition and mapping in ‘D2.2 - Conceptual Framework’ and ‘D3.5 - Farming System Archetypes for each CS’ and investigates the potential of remote sensing methods to inform different dimensions of FSAs. Findings from this analysis will contribute to the BESTMAP roadmap (Task 5.4). Specifically, methodologies for crop type mapping, crop yield estimation, and field boundary mapping are investigated in different case study regions and their relevance for FSAs are shown.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e115387

Authors: Fanny Langerwisch, Tomáš Václavík, Marek Bednář, Guy Ziv, Jodi Gunning, Arjan Gosal, Anne Paulus, Sanja Brdar, Predrag Lugonja, Stefanija Stojkovic, Stephanie Roilo, Anna Cord

Abstract: This deliverable provides an overview of the methods and data used for developing the Farming System Archetypes (FSAs) in the five case studies - Humber, Mulde, SouthMoravia, Bačka and Catalonia. Additionally, it discusses limitations as well as problems and presents solutions. The FSAs are a generalized typology of farming systems that are assumed to have similar response to policy change. FSAs are a major component of the BESTMAP modelling architecture because they provide linkages between many aspects of the project, especially connecting the biophysical and agent-based modelling in the case studies (CS), based on local data (e.g. IACS/LPIS, for explanation see Methodology), with the modelling of policy effects at the EU level, based on FADN micro-data within the FADN regions. The FSA framework defines the main farm characteristics determined by two main dimensions: firstly farm specialization and secondly economic size, both calculated and mapped for each farm in the CSs. ‘Farmer agents’ who belong to the same FSA are then assumed to have similar decision patterns regarding the adoption of agri-environmental schemes, based on the relationships revealed in the CS agent-based models.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e115386

Authors: Felix Wittstock, David Hötten, Sofia Biffi, Cristina Domingo-Marimon, Bořivoj Šarapatka, Marek Bednář, Minučer Mesaroš

Abstract: This deliverable presents a Summaries of data, obstacles and challenges from interview campaigns of the H2020 BESTMAP project. It aims at documenting the BESTMAP interview campaigns carried out to obtain data on farmers’ decision-making with regard to agri-environmental schemes (AES). It covers a detailed description of methodology, reporting on the concrete steps taken to collect and analyze interview data. It also discusses obstacles and challenges to BESTMAP interview campaigns. Finally, the deliverable presents the main qualitative and quantitative findings of the interview analysis, with a focus on qualitative content analysis of open interview questions.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e115385

Authors: Ruth Delzeit, Simone Markoff, Sneha Thube

Abstract: This deliverable report elaborates on the development and results of a set of policy scenarios that represent the outcomes of Task 2.4. After clarifying the objective of the deliverable, key features of the DART-BIO model are explained, followed by a definition of two biofuel scenarios in which the EU’s Renewable Energy Directive (RED) and in addition global biofuel policies are implemented. Further, two specifications of international climate policies are defined and their implementation explained. In the result section, the impacts of these policies on the EU’s agricultural markets and land-use change are illustrated. The results show that with the RED including a ban on palm-oil based biodiesel in place, EU’s rapeseed production and therewith also land used to cultivate rapeseed rises, while also imports of other vegetable oils increase. Land-use change outside the EU is limited. Adding biofuel policies in non-EU regions causes global land use-change towards more cropland used for biofuel feedstock (e.g. soybeans, palm fruit) at the expense of pasture land and crops not used for biofuel production. When implementing climate policies, the conversion of pasture land on the global average is reduced. Depending on the specification of climate policies (having a CO2 or all GHG emission reduction target), land-use change is affected differently. When only considering CO2 emissions, more biofuels and feedstock are imported into the EU, resulting in less area (-3 percentage points) devoted to rapeseed production compared to a situation with biofuel policies but no climate policy. Adding all GHG emissions to the reduction targets leads to a reduction of 1 percentage point in rapeseed areas in the EU since emission pricing reduces demand for livestock production. The results can serve as input into Agent-Based Modelling in case studies across the EU, changing land-use patterns and opportunity costs of participation in agri-environmental schemes.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e115384

Authors: Cristina Domingo-Marimon, Joan Masó Pau, Guy Ziv, Jodi Gunning

Abstract: Dashboards for data visualisation and decision-making are information management tools that visually display, analyse and provide metrics of data, for better decisions and understanding improvement.Dashboards provide critical reporting of spatialised data and associated metrics information and are essential for displaying model results, guiding decisions and better navigating the landscape. The main aim of the dashboards is to quickly gain insights into the most relevant results of the data displayed. The main added value for users is that information is transformed into knowledge which is useful for decisions on policy making.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e115383

Authors: Guy Ziv, Jodi Gunning, Tomáš Václavík, Michael Beckmann, Anne Paulus, Birgit Mueller, Meike Will, Anna Cord, Stephanie Roilo, James Bullock, Paul Evans, Cristina Domingo-Marimon, Joan Masó Pau

Abstract: This deliverable provides a General Framework for the BESTMAP Policy Impact Assessment Modelling (BESTMAP-PIAM) toolset. An update of the framework will be provided later in the project in Deliverable 2.4. The BESTMAP-PIAM is based on the notion of defining (a) a typology of agricultural systems, with one (or more) representative case study (CS) in each major system; (b) mapping all individual farms within the case study to a Farm System Archetype (FSA) typology; (c) model the adoption of agri-environmental schemes (AES) within the spatially-mapped FSA population using Agent Based Models (ABM), based on literature and a survey with sufficient representative sample in each FSA of each CS, to elucidate the non-monetary drivers underpinning AES adoption and the relative importance of financial and non-financial/social/identity drivers; (d) linking AES adoption to a set of biophysical, ecological and socio-economic impact models; (e) upscaling the CS level results to EU scale; (f) linking the outputs of these models to indicators developed for the post-2020 CAP output, result and impact reports; (g) visualizing outputs and providing a dashboard for policy makers to explore a range of policy scenarios, focusing on cost-effectiveness of different AES.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e115382

Authors: Guy Ziv, Jodi Gunning, Anna Cord, Michael Beckmann, Anne Paulus, Tomáš Václavík, Cristina Domingo-Marimon, James Bullock, Paul Evans, Milica Trajković

Abstract: This document is the first version of the Data Management Plan of the H2020 BESMAP project. The Data Management Plan is intended as a living document and updated versions of this document will be produced in month 18 (D1.4) and month 36 (D1.6). The scope of the Data Management Plan is to describe the data management life cycle of all data sets that will be collected, processed or generated by the BESTMAP project. This document outlines how research data will be handled during the BESTMAP project, and after the project is completed. This Data Management Plan describes what data will be collected, processed or generated and what methodology and standards will be applied, whether and how this data will be shared and/or made open, and how it will be curated and preserved.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e115381

Authors: Pavel Stoev, Anna Sapundzhieva, Teodor Georgiev, Margarita Grudova, Guy Ziv, Jodi Gunning

Abstract: To promote and disseminate the BESTMAP research across stakeholders and the general public, and to raise awareness of the project findings, BESTMAP launched a website at the initial phase of the project. This report describes in detail the purpose, creation process and content of the BESTMAP website – the project’s key tool for successful dissemination, communication and knowledge transfer. The deliverable also describes the current and future implementation and maintenance of the website.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e115172

Authors: Mark Brown, Matthias Albrecht, Pilar De la Rúa, Sara Hellström, Alexandra-Maria Klein, Denis Michez, Francesco Nazzi, Robert Paxton, Edward Straw, Dimitry Wintermantel, Simon Potts

Abstract: Managed bees and other pollinators are exposed to a wide variety of stressors and these often act in combination. Historically, most risk assessments and research have focused on the impacts of individual stressors on honey bees. However, there is broad scientific consensus that there is a need for a systems-based risk assessment approach and a post-approval monitoring system. This should consider: multiple interacting stressors; a variety of pollinator species (including different subspecies, sexes, castes and life history stages); field studies as well as laboratory studies; and a diversity of end-points (molecular, physiological, behavioural, developmental, reproductive and colony health). The PoshBee project has made a significant step in our understanding of how the interactions between agrochemicals, pathogens and nutrition impact different bee species.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e114825

Authors: Carles Ibáñez, Alba Alemany, Ferran Bertomeu, Silvia Frias, Judith Molero, Roberto Merciai, Laura Puertolas

Abstract: Coastal regions provide some of the most productive and biodiverse environments with an important and often underappreciated carbon storage potential. At the same time, they are among the areas of highest population density, natural assets, and cultural heritage in the world, yet are experiencing significant social, economic and environmental challenges, exacerbated by climate change and human pressures.The Rest-Coast Project (Large scale RESToration of COASTal ecosystems through rivers to sea connectivity) is an EU Horizon 2020 research project (Grant agreement No. 101037097) whose overall goal is to address with effective and innovative tools the key challenges faced by coastal ecosystem restoration across Europe. The approach chosen for this project will deliver a highly interdisciplinary contribution, with the demonstration of improved practices and techniques for hands-on ecosystem restoration across several pilot sites, supported by the co-design of innovative governance and financial arrangements, as well as an effective strategy for the dissemination of results.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e114824

Authors: Carla Danelutti, Emmi Lindqvist, Maria del Mar Otero, Mindert de Vries, Albert Vos, Nuno Caiola, Vicente Gracia, Nil Alvarez, Laura Puertolas, Jaime Ordonez, Silvia Torresan, Caterina Dabalà, Francesca Coccon, Grzegorz Różyński, Nikolay Valchev, Nataliya Andreeva, Elitsa Hineva, Olivier Boutron, Rosaria Ester Musumeci, Massimiliano Marino, Christophe Briere, Julien Dalle, Margot Defoort-Levkov, Margot Ahr, Yael Salame-Rubin, Simon Nemtzov, Avi Uzan

Abstract: Coastal regions provide some of the most productive and biodiverse environments with an important and often underappreciated carbon storage potential. At the same time, they are among the areas of highest population density, natural assets and cultural heritage in the world, yet are experiencing significant social, economic and environmental challenges, exacerbated by climate change and human pressures.The REST-COAST project (Large scale RESToration of COASTal ecosystems through rivers to sea connectivity) will demonstrate to what extent upscaled coastal restoration can provide a low-carbon adaptation, reducing risks and providing gains in biodiversity for vulnerable coastal ecosystems, such as wetlands or sea grass beds. By overcoming present technical, economic, governance and social barriers to restoration upscaling, REST-COAST will develop the large scale river-coast connectivity and increase the nearshore accommodation space for the resilient delivery of coastal ecosystem services (ESs). The selected ESs (risk reduction, environmental quality and fish provisioning) touch urgent coastal problems such as the erosion/flooding during recent storms or the accelerating coastal habitat degradation that seriously affects fisheries and aquaculture. Combining new techniques, risk assessments, innovative financial/governance arrangements and homogeneous metrics for ESs and biodiversity, REST-COAST will develop a systemic approach to coastal restoration based on a scalable coastal adaptation plan.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e114653

Authors: Anna Cord, Stephanie Roilo, Michael Beckmann, Anne Paulus, Katharina Schneider, Predrag Lugonja, Tijana Nikolić, Fanny Langerwisch, Marek Bednář, Tomáš Václavík, Paul Evans, Arjan Gosal, Rosemary Wool, George Breckenridge, Guy Ziv, Jodi Gunning

Abstract: This deliverable provides a report on the biodiversity and ecosystem services (ESS) models as well as the socio-economic statistical model, generated in the Work Package 3 (WP3) - Farming System Archetypes of BESTMAP. A general overview of the research goals and guiding principles under which the models were developed is given, followed by a detailed description of the four biophysical models (biodiversity, food and fodder, carbon sequestration and water quality) and of the socio-economic model, each with case study (CS) examples. This document is accompanied by model factsheets (see Appendix) which loosely follow the structure of the ODMAP (Overview, Data, Model, Assessment and Prediction) protocol developed by Zurell et al. (2020). The deliverable also discusses the obstacles and challenges encountered during the model adaptation and implementation in the different CS, and how the model outputs will be used in various other tasks within the project.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e112382

Authors: Bryony Willcox, Deepa Senapathi, Mark Brown, Simon Potts

Abstract: In the real world, pollinators face multiple interacting pressures, and so response options must be tailored to this. To date, most attention has been on characterising the risks to managed pollinators from single stressors, though recently more attention has been paid to risks from multiple stressors (e.g., pesticides, pathogens and poor nutrition). The PoshBee project has developed a policy brief providing recommendations on options that mitigate against multiple stressors.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e109168

Authors: Alejandra Morán-Ordóñez, David Martí Pino, Lluís Brotons

Abstract: This report describes the database on biodiversity monitoring initiatives at the European level collected by EuropaBON (WP3 - task 3.1; EuropaBON biodiversity database from hereon) and the web-based platform (website) that contains it. The website serves the dual purpose of being the platform for data entry, as well as to allow the visualisation and quick consultation of the collected data. This report also gives a brief summary of the data collected up to the date of delivery of the report (end November 2021). Previous efforts on collecting information on existing monitoring efforts in Europe have concentrated in describing programs using a generalist approach that has received criticism because of lack of completeness even for well documented groups such as birds. Including all available information on monitoring in Europe at any spatial scale is difficult because of the high number of unlinked initiatives, specially at local scales, and the dynamic nature of these projects both in terms of the emergence of new efforts and the disappearance of old ones. To address this challenge, the EuropaBON project focusses on the monitoring network concept and aims at identifying, with priority, those monitoring efforts that are coordinated and especially those in which this coordination is consistent at a supranational level and at the European scale. Coordination in the context of monitoring is related to the integration of data and information across scales which is the underlying concept of a future successful biodiversity monitoring network in Europe.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e107578

Authors: Alex Vermeulen, Dick Schaap, Angeliki Adamaki, Tjerk Krijger, Raul Bardaji, Andreu Fornos, Ivan Rodero, Damien Boulanger, Cathrine Myhre, Richard Rud, Zois Zogopoulos, Claudio D’Onofrio, Gwenaelle Moncoiffé

Abstract: The Environmental Research Infrastructure (ENVRI) community is a cluster of European research infrastructures focused on the environment and Earth system science. The ENVRI-FAIR project aims to advance the FAIRness of their data and services with emphasis on interoperability and connect the ENVRI community to the European Open Science Cloud (EOSC). In this article, we present a proposal for a science project that will develop and launch a dashboard for environmental indicators as a contribution from the ENVRI cluster to the EOSC platform. The dashboard will provide easy access to environmental data and services from multiple research infrastructures and disciplines and support interdisciplinary Earth system science and societal challenges. The proposal describes the objectives, implementation, impact, and dissemination measures of the project, as well as the partners involved and the target groups that can benefit from the dashboard service. We explain how the dashboard will showcase the usefulness and relevance of the observations provided by the research infrastructures, and how it will engage a larger community of researchers and potential data providers in co-creation processes. We also discuss how the dashboard will make use of existing and new EOSC services and resources, and how it will contribute to several EU initiatives and directives related to the environment and climate change.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e106369

Authors: Christos Arvanitidis, Ron Dekker, Andreas Petzold, Niklas Blomberg, Giovanni Lamanna, Rudolf Dimper, Cristina Isabel Huertas Olivares, Ana Mellado, Matthew Viljoen, Sally Chambers, Montserrat González, Sophie Viscido

Abstract: The Special Collection of articles on the Science Projects of the EOSC Future project, funded by the European Commission, refers to one of the essential components of the project. This editorial article explains how the Science Projects fit to the EOSC Future, the way their concept has been developed and evolved during the preparation and the implementation of the project and it also makes an introduction to the templates developed by the Science Projects as a plan to carry out their activities.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e105599

Authors: Tom Breeze, Miguel Fernandez, Ian McCallum, Alejandra Morán-Ordóñez, Henrique Pereira, Jessi Junker

Abstract: Financial factors are among the most widely cited bottlenecks around biodiversity monitoring but are relatively poorly studied, compared to monitoring methodologies. The existing body of literature on the cost-effectiveness of monitoring focuses heavily on the hypothetical costs of generating data rather than the practical realities of undertaking and managing monitoring. To address this we used a combination of surveys and semi-structured interviews with 67 biodiversity monitoring managers to provide an in-depth exploration of 1) what are the main rivers of their costs, 2) how different factors affect their cost-effectiveness in generating biodiversity monitoring data, 3) What is the scale and economic value of volunteer labor and 4) what are the main cost bottlenecks and spending priorities. Analysis of these responses demonstrates that monitoring efforts are able to generate more data at a lower cost when they have a) higher numbers of volunteers, b) greater densities of sites and c) monitor a wider range of taxa and habitats. Volunteer labour was worth millions of Euros to these organizations, sometimes more than their total costs. Total budgets and volunteer recruitment and retention were the main cost related bottlenecks among respondents, while staff recruitment was the highest priority for new spending.  The results and discussion around them highlight the challenges faced by biodiversity monitoring organizations, particularly in recruiting and retaining qualified staff for the long-term. We produce a series of nine key messages and six recommendations for policy-markers and funders going forward.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e105600

Authors: Maria Dornelas, Cher Chow, Robert Patchett, Tom Breeze, Lluís Brotons, Pedro Beja, Laurence Carvalho, Ute Jandt, Jessi Junker, W. Daniel Kissling, Ingolf Kühn, Maria Lumbierres, Anne Lyche Solheim, Marit Mjelde, Francisco Moreira, Martin Musche, Henrique Pereira, Leonard Sandin, Roy Van Grunsven

Abstract: The goal of this task was to identify and characterise novel methods for biodiversity monitoring, and to assess their suitability for large scale deployment across Europe. To address this goal we combined extensive literature searches with expert consultation, namely using a survey and through an online workshop. The outcome of our searches is summarised in a metadatabase, which includes 282 methods or method components, which have been classified according to EBV classes addressed, target taxa, and broad method type the method relates to. We then consulted experts within the EuropaBON network and beyond, on the advantages and challenges associated with each of these novel methods, as well as their technology readiness level. In combination, our approaches revealed a wealth of novel methods and a highly active research field, with extensive emerging innovation on several fronts. However, it also revealed high variability in technology readiness, with lack of validation being a prevalent hurdle yet to be overcome for many applications of these methods (i.e. for some taxa and in some environments). Moreover, the opportunities for expansion in observations created by these novel approaches open new challenges associated to the standardisation, integration and storage of biodiversity monitoring data. Finally, the expansion of observations should take a designed approach, in order to deliver on its potential to improve representation and resolution of biodiversity monitoring, and should aim to complement rather than replace human observations. 

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e104881

Authors: David Kleijn, Ignasi Bartomeus, Vincent Bretagnolle, Kati Häfner, Felix Herzog, Jochen Kantelhardt, Erik Öckinger, Simon Potts, Giulia Riedo, Anna Sapundzhieva, Lena Luise Schaller, Nikol Yovcheva

Abstract: Agricultural expansion and intensification are key drivers of biodiversity decline. There is mounting evidence that modern farming impacts the effectiveness of protected areas as one of the key instruments of biodiversity conservation through, for example, eutrophication, pesticide emissions or increasing access to remote areas [1]. This is increasingly acknowledged and in many countries conservation efforts now include farmed lands and engage farmers to enhance biodiversity on their lands. This benefits farmland biodiversity which, especially in Eurasia, supports some highly threatened species groups [2]. However, farmland biodiversity is also functionally important as it provides a wide range of ecosystem services. Examples are natural pest regulation, pollination, carbon sequestration, human well-being, water purification and cultural services. Agricultural management influences the provision of a wide range of ecosystem services and therefore, contributes to food security and mankind’s ability to sustain itself in the mid to long term. There is clear evidence that enhancing farmland biodiversity promotes the delivery of specific ecosystem services [3]. For example, enhancing wild pollinators and natural enemies through the provision of semi-natural habitat enhances productivity of many crops [4, 5]. However, only a few ecosystem services, such as pollination, pest control and nutrient cycling, may provide private benefits to farmers. Other services, such as carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation, health benefits and water purification, are public goods which are poorly captured by markets [6].

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e104251

Authors: Hannah Moersberger, Juliette G. C. Martin, Jessi Junker, Ivelina Georgieva, Joachim Maes, Ian McCallum, Henrique M. Pereira, Aletta Bonn

Abstract: In order to assess user and policy needs related to biodiversity monitoring and data, the EuropaBON project invited national experts to fill in this survey in August 2021. The survey was tailored to the national level and aimed at identifying current monitoring efforts, data flows from collection to reporting, data uptake by policymaking, challenges and roadblocks, as well as biodiversity variables and indicators for a desirable future. On behalf of the European Commission (DG Environment) and EuropaBON, the surveys were sent out to all national focal points of the European Environment Information and Observation Network (Eionet) as well as key national agencies. Eionet is a partnership network of the European Environment Agency (EEA) and its 38 member and cooperating countries to gather and develop data, knowledge, and advice to policy makers about Europe's environment. The results of our surveys form the basis for the analysis of the EuropaBON User and Policy Needs Assessment (DOI) and inform the design of the Europa Biodiversity Observation Network and its work programme. We published the original responses of survey sections A and B in the annex of the User and Policy Needs Assessment. Responses of section C were synthesised in the assessment.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e103765

Authors: Alejandra Morán-Ordóñez, Pedro Beja, Sara Fraixedas, Sergi Herrando, Jessi Junker, W. Daniel Kissling, Maria Lumbierres, Anne Lyche Solheim, Gabriel Miret, Jannicke Moe, Francisco Moreira, Henrique Pereira, Joana Santana, Dani Villero, Lluís Brotons

Abstract: The EuropaBON project seeks to design a European Biodiversity Observation Network to monitor the status and trends of European biodiversity and ecosystems in the coming years. To accomplish this, the project has brought together biodiversity monitoring experts and other relevant stakeholders from various sectors (policy, NGO, academia, business, citizen science) from all over Europe. These have agreed on a list of 70 Essential Biodiversity Variables (Deliverable 4.1) that should enable tracking the progress of biodiversity-oriented policy instruments and provide information on changes in biodiversity at different levels.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e103657

Authors: Joana Santana, Miguel Porto, Lluís Brotons, Jessi Junker, W. Daniel Kissling, Maria Lumbierres, Jannicke Moe, Alejandra Morán-Ordóñez, Henrique Pereira, Anne Lyche Solheim, Dani Villero, Francisco Moreira, Pedro Beja

Abstract: The co-design of a European Observatory Observation Network requires information on the existing monitoring capacity in Europe, including the quantity and quality of the data available to generate the Essential Biodiversity Variables (EBVs) identified in Task 4.1 at the spatial- and temporal resolutions desired by users and policy. In this document, we provide a framework to identify the main monitoring gaps to produce European-wide EBVs. Specifically, we provide a detailed and spatially explicit information (country-level) on monitoring gaps for the production of 44 EBVs by analyzing the data flowing to current and past monitoring integration initiatives according to the defined criteria (country coverage; taxonomic/ecosystem coverage; standardized monitoring; time-series data; long-term monitoring; ongoing monitoring; sampling frequency; spatial coverage density; minimum sampling unit; raw data available). Results are presented in factsheets for each EBV and summarized across EBV classes and realms.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e101949

Authors: W. Daniel Kissling, Maria Lumbierres

Abstract: This document will form the basis for the EuropaBON virtual workshop on EBV workflows (22-24 February 2023) and for developing the co-design of the European Biodiversity Observation Network.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e101323

Authors: Matthew J Allan, Robin Dean, Alexandra-Maria Klein, Dimitry Wintermantel, Matthias Albrecht, Janine Schwarz, Anina Knauer

Abstract: Under the terms of the PoshBee agreement, the members tasked with delivering Work Package 7 carried out semi-field and field studies on honey bees, bumble bees and solitary bees. These studies involved the exposure of the bees to more than one stressor, for example a fungicide and an insecticide or a fungicide and a nutritional deficiency. This is in contrast to the conventional study design where one stressor or product alone is assessed.These studies built upon recommendations by the European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organisation (EPPO), European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), Prevention of Honeybee Colony Losses (COLOSS), and the Organisation of Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). The team of researchers incorporated several innovative approaches in designing and carrying out the studies. In the authors’ view both the quality and quantity of data required for ecotoxicology studies can be improved by adoption of novel methods, including electronic means and artificial intelligence, and the design, manufacture and use of equipment specifically for such studies. Several examples are described.It is the intention of the team to include in this document practical advice for workers who are not familiar with such studies.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e99679

Authors: Elena Velado-Alonso, Ignasi Bartomeus, Kira Keini, Suresh Chithathur, Anna Sapundzhieva, Alexandra Korcheva, David Kleijn

Abstract: Communication and dissemination are key elements to maximise SHOWCASE project impact and ensure long‐term effects. For that, an effective communication strategy is essential to convey the principles and best practices to integrate biodiversity in farm management to favour farmers’ livelihoods while promoting conservation in agricultural landscapes. Current discourses around biodiversity, nature conservation and farming are contradictory with each other and not always engaging for SHOWCASE stakeholders. Thus, an inspirational narrative has been developed in the first months of the project by WP4 “Communicating the benefits of agrobiodiversity through multistakeholder knowledge exchange”, task 4.1. SHOWCASE narrative explains in an effective manner 1) why people care about biodiversity; 2) what we can do, and; 3) how we can do it better.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e93511

Authors: Anna Sapundzhieva, Alexandra Korcheva, Georgi Zhelezov

Abstract: The following report presents the initial project branding and marketing products that showcase the project’s visual identity and overall corporate appearance.As a foundation of the future effective communication activities, a sound set of working dissemination tools and materials is crucial to be established within the first months of the project. A project logo, project promotional materials, overall visual identity package, and a public website (www.showcase-project.eu) were developed in the first 4 months of the project duration in order to form the main tools of project public visibility and internal communication.The project is provided with a logo that has been communicated and coordinated with all project partners. Dissemination materials such as the SHOWCASE brochure and poster were produced for raising awareness and engaging stakeholders at events. A project brand manual was created and circulated among project partners in order to provide a consistent visual representation of the project. A set of corporate templates was also produced and made available to the consortium partners to facilitate future dissemination and reporting activities such as letters, milestones and deliverable reports, PowerPoint presentations, etc. The project website is developed as the main dissemination channel.The longer‐term impact of the project's results will be secured by maintaining the website for a minimum of 5 years after the end of the project.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e93510

Authors: Lena Luise Schaller, Verena Scherfranz, Kati Häfner, Fabian Klebl, Jabier Ruiz, Jochen Kantelhardt, Annette Piorr

Abstract: Regulatory and incentive instruments for biodiversity management on farms (Short summary for practitioners)

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e93509

Authors: Anna Sapundzhieva, Alexandra Korcheva, Nikol Yovcheva

Abstract: Communication, dissemination and exploitation play a vital role within SHOWCASE as the main means of ensuring knowledge transfer and uptake of results during the project lifetime and after the project is concluded. The project’s strategic objectives and target groups, as well as the key messages and narratives that the project aims to communicate serve as an orientation in the project’s actions in the relevant field. The current Plan for Exploitation and Dissemination of Results (PEDR) has been developed to define target-specific objectives and outline concrete implementation actions.The SHOWCASE PEDR represents a document that aims to guide the communication and dissemination efforts to target project-relevant audiences, convey clear, understandable, coordinated and effective messages, and reach out project results to all interested parties within the various stakeholder groups.The plan presents the different communication and dissemination tools, structured in an implementation plan according to the different target groups and different stage of development of the project. It also provides a list of tailored key performance indicators (KPI) for the project’s outreach activities that aim to provide a means to quantitatively monitor the effectiveness of dissemination activities. Indicative time schedule for implementation and updates is provided.In addition, this document will identify key project results, which will be a subject of exploitation.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e93508

Authors: Alexandra Korcheva, Anna Sapundzhieva, Ignasi Bartomeus

Abstract: The SHOWCASE DMP is structured into five sections, which aim to establish the scope and terms of use of research data within the project in accordance with the Horizon 2020 requirements of data management.The first section provides an introduction to the plan, which outlines the main data management practices that SHOWCASE would implement throughout the five-year project duration, as well as aspects of sustainable management of results and data after the conclusion of the project period.The second section of the document provides an overview of the commitments that SHOWCASE has made in relation to handling data in a controlled and transparent way, and ensuring an open access to research data and results in line with the EU’s Open Research Data Pilot and FAIR data management.The third section describes the details of data management within the project, focusing on different aspects of the process - from data collection, through data processing, to storage and access provision. The section features information on personal data protection in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), as well as a break-down of the research data usage into project work packages. Recommendations for relevant data management practices are described in the section.The fourth section includes an overview of the specific data management details for the project work packages. The specific data formats and data management requirements of work packages are described.The fifth section of the DMP features concluding remarks on the data management strategy adopted by the project, and it outlines future updates and additions to the plan, which are going to be presented at a later stage of the project’s development.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e93507

Authors: Andrew Ruck, Erik Öckinger, Rene van der Wal, Alice Mauchline, Amelia Hood, Simon Potts, Michiel Wallis De Vries, Sabrina Gaba, Vincent Bretagnolle

Abstract: This report was researched and written between April and December 2021 by researchers at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), with support from partners at the University of Reading (UK), De Vlinderstichting (Netherlands), and Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS, France). The report consists of a review of existing 'citizen science’ approaches to monitoring biodiversity on farmland, in which we introduce a typology of five different types of approach, and highlight the strengths and weaknesses of these. This forms part of the project “SHOWCASing synergies between agriculture, biodiversity and Ecosystem services to help farmers capitalising on native biodiversity” (SHOWCASE). SHOWCASE aims to encourage the widespread uptake of biodiversity-friendly farming practices across Europe, both through identifying effective incentives for farmers, and gathering further evidence of the ecosystem services provided by increased levels of biodiversity. The project receives funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No.862480. In particular, this report fulfils Deliverable 3.8 within SHOWCASE: “A review of existing citizen science approaches to monitoring farmland biodiversity, including an overview of the different statistical approaches to handling citizen science data”. We at SLU are grateful to all SHOWCASE partners for their contributions.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e93506

Authors: Lena Luise Schaller, Verena Scherfranz, Kati Häfner, Fabian Klebl, Jabier Ruiz, Jochen Kantelhardt, Annette Piorr

Abstract: This document represents Deliverable 2.1 “Overview of regulatory and incentive instruments for biodiversity management on farms” within WP2 „Identifying incentives to promote biodiversity and ecosystem services in agricultural landscapes“ of the EU Horizon 2020 project SHOWCASE. It reports the outcomes of WP2 Task 2.1 “Evaluating regulatory and incentive instruments for biodiversity management on farms”.In the 1st and 2nd chapter, the report gives a short introduction of the deliverable’s objectives, the tasks addressed, the report’s outline and the main focus of the literature review.Chapter 3 gives an overview of the main laws governing biodiversity protection in the European Union. The main elements of the Birds and Habitats directives are presented, alongside other biodiversity laws and policies, with a focus on the obligations and requirements they set on agriculture in order to protect European native wildlife. Chapter 3 also covers the features of the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy that operate as a regulatory baseline for all beneficiaries of farm subsidies, i.e., cross-compliance and greening requirements under the current CAP and the new conditionality in the CAP 2023-2027.Chapter 4 gives an overview of economic and non-economic approaches potentially promoting farmers’ pro-biodiversity behaviour. Whereas economically oriented approaches imply positive or negative monetary flows – compensation payments or rewards vs. penalties – to motivate farmers to implement biodiversity-friendly management practices or to prevent them from harming biodiversity, partnerships and networks steer farmers’ behaviour through agreeing on a common goal and working towards it by sharing resources, skills and risk. With regards to the agricultural focus of SHOWCASE, Chapter 4 looks in more detail at the incentives provided by the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) of the European Union. This covers both the current and future CAP, with an overview of how the novel eco-schemes can provide new incentives for farmers to adopt biodiversity friendly practices.Chapter 5 looks into how the combination of regulatory frameworks and incentives operate in practice for farmers in the EU. To this end, grey literature and European Commission publications related to farming for biodiversity have been reviewed. A specific focus is set on biodiversity-friendly farming in Natura 2000 sites, as central exemplary areas of continuous and long-lasting efforts in biodiversity conservation. This is followed by revising some of the main conclusions from very recent grey literature assessing the successes and failures of the CAP in relation to biodiversity.Chapter 6 provides an overview of approaches that have already been implemented to incentivize farmers’ pro-biodiversity behaviour. Based on grey literature, various types of approaches – i. e. focusing on plot or farm level, land tenure or the entire value chain, building on organic farming or including market-based, value-based or measure-based mechanisms – were identified within the EBA countries, further EU member states and selected western countries outside the EU. In sum, 62 examples of pro-biodiversity schemes were included in the further analysis representing highly divergent incentivizing mechanisms and the most important agricultural systems of the EBAs as well as in consequence serving as an information platform for further EBA scheme design activities.Based on the preceding chapters and their focus on result-based approaches, Chapter 7 casts a critical eye on their suitability with regards to various regulatory, policy, social and administrative contexts also considering potential national differences. On the international level, WTO requirements such as Green Box rules are a limiting factor with regards to result- based payment modalities and thus scheme design. On the national and regional level, issues to be considered include long-term availability of funding, guaranteeing additionality if requested, stakeholders’ and decision-makers’ attitudes towards agri-environment-climate measures in general as well as towards result-oriented approaches specifically, availability of suitable indicators and IT-systems, access to extension services and profound know-how of farmers and public authorities regarding the interlinkages between biodiversity and farming practices. On individual level, farmers’ trust in involved institutions and their willingness to participate are additionally discussed as highly relevant factors affecting the suitability of result- based approaches.In Chapter 8 a structured overview on factors influencing farmers’ willingness to promote biodiversity by implementing voluntary biodiversity measures is presented. Based on the review of scientific literature, the chapter describes several determinants which have been identified along three scales, i.e. 1) society, community and landscape, 2) farm scale, and 3) farmers’ intrinsic factors. The main influencing factors at the first scale range from the design of policies, to economic aspects, to socio-cultural norms. The second scale encompasses relevant farm characteristics, such as farm type and size to field conditions. For the farmers’ intrinsic factors age, education, experience, and self-identity play an important role. However, it is important to make a distinction between farmers’ willingness to participate in schemes and their actual behaviour, because the latter is determined by their ability to do so.Chapter 9 closes the Deliverable by giving an outlook on the further use of the results for scientific analyses within SHOWCASE, supporting mainly the work of designing interventions in WP1 and of developing surveys and model designs in WP2, as well as providing a basis for communication and policy recommendation material for WP4.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e93505

Authors: Vincent Bretagnolle, Sabrina Gaba, Amelia Hood, Simon Potts

Abstract: SHOWCASE’s first step is to create a European network of local Experimental Biodiversity Areas (EBAs), that will be used to co-develop (though to varying degrees) and test successful strategies for better integrating biodiversity into farming. EBAs are located across a wide range of agro-ecosystems and represent farming systems undergoing both intensification as well as agricultural abandonment. Rather than creating new sites for the network, the approach in SHOWCASE was that EBAs would be developed mostly from existing collaborations between scientists and practitioners. The first work Package of SHOWCASE, WP1, has built in the 10 countries an experimental and knowledge exchange network in agricultural landscapes across Europe. Existing collaborations include LTSER platforms from eLTER RI, farmer cooperatives, farming research organisations and conservation organisations. These are well-established multi-actor networks already undertaking knowledge exchange, participatory research and innovation activities. Then, participatory approaches with farmers, administrators and other stakeholders are defining operational biodiversity targets at field/farm/regional level by discussing the types and extents of biodiversity indicators that should be used. WP1 thus is building our EBA network, with each EBA serving both as a local testbed for developing and implementing novel interventions and as a knowledge exchange hub. This is a pan-European network of Experimental Biodiversity Areas. In these EBAs multi-actor communities (growers, extension workers, researchers, NGOs, citizens etc.) work together to co-develop, co-manage, co-monitor and co-evaluate biodiversity innovations to enhance farm production, wildlife protection, livelihood quality and resilience of social-ecological production systems. These multi-actor communities will i) identify and prioritise local or regional challenges of biodiversity-agricultural production trade-offs, and ii) co-formulate and test potential solutions. However, to add value at the European level and allow up- scaling and out-scaling of solutions, it is essential to have a common framework and set of core standardised methodologies and measures used by all EBAs. EBAs are expected to be somewhat representative of Europe, in terms of biogeography, farming system or agricultural intensification/abandonment. However, all EBAs are starting from different points. One main target was to develop the network of EBAs based on a core approach, though place-based, in order to provide local solutions to local challenges. A conceptual representation of an EBA is given below illustrating how each EBA will be the fundamental base and operational platform integrating the various Tasks of WP1.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e82715

Authors: Milica Trajković, Dajana Vujaklija, Guy Ziv, Arjan Gosal, Jiaqi Ge, Jodi Gunning, Birgit Mueller, Annabelle Williams, Elisabet Nadeu

Abstract: This document has five main sections: the first one, “Developing the needs assessment protocol” which explains how we approached to different stakeholders in order to define and analyse their needs and capacities; the second section contains the report of of the interviews conducted by RISE and present the needs of Policy Makers; section three explains the needs of expert practitioners identified during the online workshop (14th and 15th of July 2020); section four presents the needs of biophysical modeling community and section five explains the needs of ABM modellers identified from recent scholarly workshops. The results of this analysis will be taken under consideration and co-design and co-development processes.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e82404

Authors: Guy Ziv, Jodi Gunning, Tomáš Václavík, Michael Beckmann, Anne Paulus, Birgit Mueller, Meike Will, Anna Cord, Stephanie Roilo, James Bullock, Paul Evans, Cristina Domingo-Marimon, Joan Masó Pau

Abstract: This deliverable provides a General Framework for the BESTMAP Policy Impact Assessment Modelling (BESTMAP-PIAM) toolset. The BESTMAP-PIAM is based on the notion of defining (a) a typology of agricultural systems, with one (or more) representative case study (CS) in each major system; (b) mapping all individual farms within the case study to a Farm System Archetype (FSA) typology; (c) model the adoption of agri-environmental schemes (AES) within the spatially-mapped FSA population using Agent Based Models (ABM), based on literature and a survey with sufficient representative sample in each FSA of each CS, to elucidate the non-monetary drivers underpinning AES adoption and the relative importance of financial and non-financial/social/identity drivers; (d) linking AES adoption to a set of biophysical, ecological and socio-economic impact models; (e) upscaling the CS level results to EU scale; (f) linking the outputs of these models to indicators developed for the post-2020 CAP output, result and impact reports; (g) visualizing outputs and providing a dashboard for policy makers to explore a range of policy scenarios, focusing on cost-effectiveness of different AES.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e81787

Authors: Felix Wittstock, David Hötten, Sofia Biffi, Cristina Domingo-Marimon, Bořivoj Šarapatka, Marek Bednář, Minučer Mesaroš

Abstract: This deliverable presents a Summaries of data, obstacles and challenges from interview campaigns of the H2020 BESTMAP project. It covers a detailed description of methodology, reporting on the concrete steps taken to collect and analyze interview data. It also discusses obstacles and challenges to BESTMAP interview campaigns. Finally, the deliverable presents the main qualitative and quantitative findings of the interview analysis, with a focus on qualitative content analysis of open interview questions.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/arphapreprints.e81337

Authors: Tomáš Václavík, Fanny Langerwisch, Guy Ziv, Jodi Gunning, Arjan Gosal, Michael Beckmann, Anne Paulus, Felix Wittstock, Anna Cord, Stephanie Roilo, Cristina Domingo-Marimon, Anabel Sanchez, Annelies Broekman, Dajana Vujaklija

Abstract: This document is the first version of the Guidelines and protocols harmonizing activities across case studies of the H2020 BESTMAP project. It is intended to be updated in month 40 (D1.8).

HTML

XML

PDF