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Study highlights critical communication challenges in European biodiversity research networks

New study highlights critical communication challenges in European biodiversity research networks
Conceptual representation of the Biodiversity Digital Twin (BioDT) with the integration of the four research infrastructures (DiSSCo, eLTER, GBIF and LifeWatch ERIC) involved in the development of the digital twin. Credit: Biodiversity Data Journal (2025). DOI: 10.3897/BDJ.13.e148079

A study published in June reveals that fragmented communication and coordination undermine the effectiveness of Europe's leading biodiversity research infrastructures (BioRIs). The research led by Allan T. Souza, Tomáš Martinovič, Carrie Andrew, Yi-Ming Gan, and Erik Kusch, examined the communication strategies of four major European BioRIs, uncovering issues that hinder scientific collaboration and data integration across the continent.

The paper is in the Biodiversity Data Journal.

BioRIs address the complex challenges in biodiversity research, across disciplines and national boundaries, and inform the public and policymakers about the status and challenges of European biodiversity. The new study focusing on the communication and coordination among BioRIs revealed issues in of the key European BioRIs, including DiSSCo, eLTER, GBIF and LifeWatch ERIC.

The study revealed uneven geographical representation, inconsistent communication practices, and limited data and service cohesion, ultimately impeding collaboration and efficient resource use. The distribution of BioRIs across Europe is imbalanced, leading to unequal research opportunities and capacities between regions.

While communication within individual BioRIs is often strong, collaboration between infrastructures remains limited. The absence of shared tools and standard communication channels severely hampers joint efforts and information flow.

The study found no standardized approach to communication methods among BioRIs, creating confusion for stakeholders and reducing transparency and accessibility for scientists, policymakers, and the public. Variations in data standards across infrastructures hinder . While some infrastructures share common standards, others maintain highly specialized protocols, restricting broader collaboration and data use. Although some initiatives show promise for harmonization, broader systemic challenges persist.

"Our findings highlight a critical need for a unified communication framework to break down barriers between these infrastructures," said lead author Allan T. Souza. "Without it, we risk missing opportunities for impactful, cross-disciplinary research vital to tackling Europe's and the world's biodiversity challenges." While some initiatives to tackle this issue demonstrate the potential for harmonization, the broader systemic challenges persist.

To overcome these barriers, the study argues for these urgent steps. The first one recommends a standardized communication framework. Creating a shared platform with tools for chat, mailing, discussion boards, calendars, and clear public and internal information separation.

Another recommendation is to increase geographical coverage that proposes long-term balancing of BioRI representation across Europe through coordinated funding and capacity sharing. The authors also suggest promoting data interoperability, while harmonizing standards and deepening understanding of cross-domain differences to improve integration. And last but not least, it is important to leverage good practice examples.

Addressing fragmentation within European BioRIs requires improving communication, coordination, and interoperability through both technical and institutional measures. Strategic funding, shared platforms, and will be key to building a more integrated and efficient research network. The study highlights that changes should be gradual, systematic, and informed by proven models of collaboration.

More information: Allan Souza et al, Fragmented Networks: Challenges in communication and cohesion of European Biodiversity Research Infrastructures, Biodiversity Data Journal (2025).

Journal information: Biodiversity Data Journal

Provided by Pensoft Publishers

Citation: Study highlights critical communication challenges in European biodiversity research networks (2025, August 18) retrieved 11 October 2025 from /news/2025-08-highlights-critical-communication-european-biodiversity.html
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