IP - Indicators for Policy

Indicators for Policy (IP)

Supporting taxonomic research in the context of the Global Taxonomy Initiative (GTI)

As stated in the Convention on Biological Diversity, there is an increasing need for monitoring schemes that help understand the evolution of the global biodiversity crisis and propose solutions for the future. In order to monitor and report on the state of biodiversity and propose appropriate solutions, a strong link must be established between

  • the scientific data collected 
  • the formulation of biodiversity policies

The Convention on Biological Diversity highlights the growing necessity for monitoring schemes that enhance our understanding of the global biodiversity crisis and offer future solutions. To effectively monitor and report on biodiversity’s status while proposing suitable solutions, it is essential to establish a robust connection between the scientific data collected and the development of biodiversity policies. 

Biodiversity indicators, described by the Biodiversity Indicators Partnership are key tools to

  • measure the change in biodiversity over time
  • evaluate progress towards its conservation and sustainable use
  • set conservation priorities
  • design and monitor national and regional policies on biodiversity
  • feed into national reporting on international agreements such as the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Sustainable Development Goals

The CEBioS IP sub-programme strengthens the science-policy interface, and more specifically the use of biodiversity data (indicators) to inform, influence and shape policy. 

The collected data feeds into the indicators provided for in each country’s National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plans (NBSAP) and national reports under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). 

In the framework of “Indicators for Policy” (IP) initiatives, Policy Briefs are often co-produced by local/national stakeholders and CEBioS.In these documents, key messages and policy recommendations are being identified,developed and finally communicated to policymakers in a clear way. 

All Policy Briefs are available on our ‘Publications‘ page. 

For example, earlier initiatives in Benin have concentrated on:  

  • Analysing the state of national forest cover 
  • Enhancing public awareness of tree cover degradation trends and the implications of governance 
  • Conserving medicinal plants that are commercially traded in Benin 
  • Promoting sustainable practices among stakeholders engaged in the trade of medicinal plants in the region.”