The dissemination of scientific data and information on biodiversity should not only target the scientific community, but should reach the widest possible audience in the appropriate language, including policy makers, teachers, young people and the general public. Communication should therefore be adapted to different profiles in terms of form, content and channels used. The development of databases providing access to current and past studies and research could be a very useful tool for this purpose. To achieve this, primary scientific data and conclusions should be presented in a format and language accessible to an amateur audience. This is especially important when it comes to including biodiversity topics in education and awareness programmes.
It is crucial that data on pressures on biodiversity, such as the use of pesticides, nitrates or other chemicals, are transparent and easily accessible. This information is essential to enable researchers, political decision-makers and citizens to assess the extent of environmental impacts and take appropriate action to protect ecosystems.
Recognition of the importance of centralised databases is crucial to this operational objective. Compilations and syntheses of existing data and (meta)information, using electronic tools, will provide an even stronger basis for identifying gaps in research needs and relevant policy priorities, and could serve as an essential catalogue to support access to genetic resources. The development of a web portal, in line with commitments under the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF), could form the basis for a national species registry. The GBIF is an international network and data infrastructure and is an important data source for the implementation of the K-M GBF.
This operational objective is interdependent and requires the achievement of other operational objectives described in the strategy. Improving the interface between science and policy (see operational objective 8.5) is crucial to provide decision-makers with the most accurate information on biodiversity. In addition, emphasis should be placed on open access, by encouraging a policy of open access to biodiversity data and knowledge to ensure equitable access for all, regardless of financial constraints.
Finally, data visualisation can play an important role in turning complex information into easy-to-understand formats, making it easier to understand the information and make decisions.
| Global Targets | Degree of Alignment |
GBF-T21. Data, information and knowledge for decision-making is available GBF-T21. Data, information and knowledge for decision-making is availableEnsure that the best available data, information and knowledge, are accessible to decision makers, practitioners and the public to guide effective and equitable governance, integrated and participatory management of biodiversity, and to strengthen communication, awareness-raising, education, monitoring, research and knowledge management and, also in this context, traditional knowledge, innovations, practices and technologies of indigenous peoples and local communities should only be accessed with their free, prior and informed consent[1], in accordance with national legislation.
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[1] Free, prior and informed consent refers to the tripartite terminology of “prior and informed consent” or “free, prior and informed consent” or “approval and involvement”. | High |