D4.3 Proposal draft of an integrated European biodiversity observation network with observation-to-policy-support workflows and suggestions to overcome bottlenecks

<jats:p>This deliverable provides recommendations for designing a European Biodiversity Observation Network. It synthesizes the current biodiversity monitoring landscape in Europe, describes the framework and methodology for a co-design approach, and identifies what should be monitored (terrestrial, freshwater and marine Essential Biodiversity Variables), how (monitoring methods and workflows for data integration and modelling), and why (policy relevance). It then provides 10 design recommendations, including suggestions for spatial sampling designs, sample sizes, filling of gaps, co-location, DNA-based methods, digital sensors, remote sensing, citizen science, data integration and modelling, and digital infrastructure. Finally, it estimates the economic costs of establishing and maintaining a European Biodiversity Observation Network by performing a comprehensive assessment of the staff and material costs for establishing and maintaining data collection, workflows and coordination for biodiversity monitoring in Europe.</jats:p>