How We Can Work Together to Support Biodiversity
“I can’t imagine anything more important than air, water, soil, energy and biodiversity. These are the things that keep us alive.”
David Suzuki
Biodiversity is essential for all of us. While individual actions matter, protecting biodiversity is not something we can achieve alone. It requires coordinated, long-term efforts from everyone, including farmers, foresters, researchers, advisors, policymakers and local communities. Only by working together can we support biodiversity effectively and create landscapes that are both productive and healthy.
Fostering Knowledge Exchange
Protecting biodiversity requires access to practical knowledge, shared experiences and an open dialogue between different actors. Although there is a large body of research and a growing number of biodiversity-friendly farming (BFF) practices, these are often not well known or easily accessible to those who work directly on the land.
Knowledge exchange plays a critical role in closing this gap. Farmers and foresters know their land and nature better than anyone. Their hands-on experience is essential, and their voices need to be heard by researchers and policymakers to better understand what works in practice, what challenges farmers face and how biodiversity goals can align with day-to-day farm realities.
On the other hand, when farmers have access to peer learning, trusted advice, and real-world examples, they are more likely to adopt BFF practices on their farms.
It is clear that fostering this two-way dialogue builds trust and shared responsibility among all stakeholders.
But how can we connect them all in practice?
Our Horizon Europe project FarmBioNet aims to bring together farmers, foresters, researchers, advisors, NGOs and other key players through the creation of Farming and Biodiversity National Networks (FaB NNs) in 12 European countries. The goal is to share experiences, exchange knowledge and support the wider use of biodiversity-friendly farming practices.
These networks encourage peer-to-peer mentoring, cross-sector collaboration and on-the-ground demonstrations, all of which accelerate positive change.
Implementing BFF Practices
Farmers are at the heart of biodiversity protection because the way they manage the land directly affects the health of ecosystems. For example, by applying BFF practices, such as maintaining flower-rich field margins, reducing chemical inputs, integrating diverse crop rotations, or restoring landscapes like ponds and hedgerows, farmers can protect pollinators, improve soil health, reduce erosion, and increase resilience to climate stress.
That’s why it’s vital to recognise and support farmers for taking action to protect biodiversity. Implementing BFF practices takes time, resources, and often requires a shift in mindset. For farmers and foresters to change their management, a range of conditions must be met. These include fair compensation for adopting BFF practices and stronger, more supportive regulations.
Moreover, farmers need to connect these practices to their identity and pride as farmers. When biodiversity protection becomes part of what it means to be a farmer, and when they feel supported and understood, adoption becomes more meaningful and sustainable.
Employing New Policy Efforts and Incentives
While current EU policy frameworks and incentives are valuable, policies need to be more targeted and better funded. Policies must also align with real-world farming conditions, supporting practical biodiversity measures without adding unnecessary administrative burdens.
It is important not only to promote action but also to reward long-term commitment to biodiversity goals. Clearer recognition of ecosystem services in policy frameworks, including their economic and societal value, would help position biodiversity as an asset, not a trade-off.
At the same time, advisory services must be strengthened and connected to both research and farming communities, ensuring that the right information reaches the right people at the right time.
No Single Group Can Support Biodiversity Alone
Farmers, advisors, researchers, policymakers, and civil society all bring different skills and responsibilities to the table. What is needed is not just action, but collaboration.
Strong connections between these groups create opportunities for shared learning and support. By strengthening relationships and creating spaces for mutual understanding, we move away from siloed efforts and toward a shared vision for agricultural landscapes that are more diverse and connected.
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