Digital services for biodiversity protection

Monitor, protect, restore, enhance

The Biodiversity Gateway’s first prototypes are designed to collect, process, and use biodiversity data to address environmental challenges with a knowledge-based approach

A system for turning data into knowledge

Information gathering and integration: Data from sensors, international platforms like GBIF and iNaturalist, and other sources are combined to build a solid, accessible knowledge base.
Information analysis and visualization: Advanced models help interpret the data, supporting research and decision-making.
Information management and control: Digital tools ensure quality, traceability, and interoperability—making biodiversity data useful and reliable.

The iridescent reflections of the black stork’s plumage, which change color in sunlight Rudolf Ernst- iStock – Licenza standard

Service prototypes: the first subject areas involved

The first service prototypes focus on key themes: exotic pest species, phytotechnology, bioactive molecules, Nature-Based Solutions, and data-driven monitoring of marine systems

Monitoring of exotic pest species

Biological invasions are among the most serious threats to global biodiversity. When species introduced by humans reach new habitats, they can spread fast, altering ecosystems and putting biodiversity—and the economy—at risk.
To track their presence and reduce their impact, we analyze environmental conditions and spreading patterns, identifying the most vulnerable areas and improving how interventions are planned.

To contain their expansion and reduce their impact, we monitor their presence by analyzing their environmental conditions and spreading dynamics. In this way, we identify the most vulnerable areas and optimize management interventions.

The metallic reflection of the Japanese beetle shines among the pink petals, creating a contrast between shine and delicacyBox5- iStock – Licenza standard

Regeneration with phytotechnology

Plants and microorganisms can purify polluted soils, offering asustainable alternative to traditional remediation.

We analyze soil conditions to select the most effective species for absorbing, degrading, or stabilizing pollutants—improving the quality of urban ecosystems. We focus on four main phytoremediation approaches: extraction, degradation, volatilization, and stabilization.

Our aim? Scalable solutions, adaptable to different conditions, and ready for large-scale application.

Fern among the rocks, like a fragment of light among ancient shadowsVidu Gunaratna – iStock – Licenza standard

Countering the decline of pollinators

Pollinators are vital to biodiversity and food security—and their decline threatens entire ecosystems. We respond with Nature-Based Solutions (NBS)and data-driven strategies that restore habitats and reduce environmental impact.

By combining advanced monitoring tools with predictive analytics, we create targeted, effective solutions to protect pollinators and support their recovery.

A pollen-covered bumblebee dipping into a bright pink flower: a little living jewel at workkozorog – iStock – Licenza standard

Research into new bioactive molecules

Some plants produce compounds with untapped therapeutic potential.

To uncover them, we reconstruct the evolutionary relationships between species and pinpoint the most promising candidates in the pharmaceutical field. Using the open-source software PM4MP(Phylogenetic Methods for Medicinal Plants), we explore plant databases to analyze their medicinal properties and trace their evolutionary roots.

This approach has helped us identify a select group of plants with high potential for the treating major diseases.

Expanses of wild sage in bloom, a carpet of purple hues swaying in the windSvetlana Evgrafova – iStock – Licenza standard

Catalog and tools for designing nature-based solutions (NBS)

Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) offer practical responses to complex environmental challenges.

To support their adoption, we are developing a tool (CataTool) a tool that helps identify the most suitable Nature-Based Solutions, based on the type of intervention, spatial context, and ecological needs.

At the core is theNBS Database, created by NBFC, At the core is the NBS Database, created by NBFC, which gathers case studies from across Europe and the Mediterranean. By using this tool, stakeholders can compare available solutions based on the type of intervention, spatial context, and environmental challenges.

The aim? To make NBS easy to access, widely applicable, and a cornerstone of sustainable land management.

Milan’s Bosco Verticale, an example of sustainable architecture in which trees and plants cover the building’s balconiesCreativeBoss – iStock – Licenza standard

Monitoring marine ecosystems with advanced data

To better understand our oceans, we merge historical records with next-generation analysis tools.

We use long-term monitoring networks equipped with advanced environmental sensors and genomic analysis techniques (augmented LTER). By combining time-series environmental data with biological insights, we can observe how organisms function at the genetic and molecular level (omics data).

This data-driven approach helps us detect changes in marine ecosystems early and develop targeted strategies to protect biodiversity.