Since the financial crisis there has been a decrease in funding for and a loss of visibility of biodiversity research in the successive European Research Framework Programmes. The new framework programme for Research and Innovation, Horizon 2020, illustrates quite well this trend and leaves biodiversity research to find bits and pieces under “climate action, resource efficiency and raw materials” or "Food security, sustainable agriculture, marine and maritime research and the bio-economy".

The European Platform for Biodiversity research Strategy (http://www.epbrs.org) has decided to take up the challenge of advocating for Biodiversity Research and is collaborating with the Belgian Biodiversity Platform to produce an advocacy video to draw attention on the importance of biodiversity research for addressing future societal challenges. 

EPBES is asking for help to build a strong argument for moving biodiversity research back on to the agendas of science policy makers and politicians, and maybe even influence the consultation on Horizon 2020 that is currently ongoing at the EU Parliament. If you wish to help, you are invited to take 10-15 minutes to answer the following questions: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/MH73FB9.

Championing biodiversity

We have said for a long time that biodiversity research needs charismatic ambassadors, so now is the time to find and engage them! Who do you think could carry this message in interviews of the advocacy video we are making?

EPBRS are planning to attend the Planet under Pressure conference where many key speakers and participants will be present. Could you name one or two persons who you think should be interviewed?

Thanks a lot for your support and help!

For more information please see the attached communication from the EC on Horizon 2020 where EPBRS have highlighted some key aspects.

[This news item is adapted from an e-mail circulated by Estelle Balian of the PBRS Secretariat].