Kontext

The beneficial links between biodiversity and agriculture have not yet been adequately communicated to farmers and foresters, thereby creating reluctance in the uptake of biodiversity-friendly farming (BFF) practices, including in Natura 2000 sites. FarmBioNet will address this knowledge gap in European farming and forestry. The FarmBioNet consortium combines the expertise of natural and social scientists, farmer organisations, SMEs, NGOs, businesses, and Ministries in 13 countries (11 member states). FarmBioNet will promote Europe-wide knowledge exchange and integration of research findings and practices related to farmland biodiversity, especially inside Natura 2000 sites, including those relevant to climate change mitigation/adaptation and soil health. It will evaluate and refine measures, and develop and use cross-sectoral approaches, to collect and distribute, at national and European level, easily accessible, practice oriented, and context specific knowledge on BFF practices. Central to FarmBioNet is the establishment of Farming and Biodiversity National Networks (NNs), consisting of farmer/forester individuals and organisations, researchers, NGOs, advisors, and other relevant
AKIS actors. FarmBioNet will use these NNs to gather and disseminate knowledge and information. NNs will use BFF case-study areas to promote exchange of traditional and evidence-based actions that benefit farm biodiversity, through a co-creation and cross-fertilisation process. Cost-benefit analyses, showing how biodiversity can benefit sustainable food production, and development of practical decision-making tools will promote biodiversity with farmers and foresters, and local, regional and national policy makers. FarmBioNet aims to position Europe as a global leader for biodiversity-friendly farmland management practices, harnessing knowledge to protect biodiversity and the ecosystem services it provides, which are vital to sustainable land management and bring wider societal benefits.

Objectives

The overall objective of FarmBioNet is to stimulate and foster knowledge exchange and the integration of research and practices related to biodiversity-friendly farming (BFF), including those relevant to climate change mitigation and adaptation. The project's specific objectives (SO) are:

Activities

WP1: Analysis of the state of current biodiversity-friendly farming (BFF) practices

To comprehensively review current BFF practices and incentives, including in Natura 2000 sites, and identify links between BFF practices and farm climate adaptation and mitigation measures. Review current and past incentives for farmers and foresters to improve biodiversity on the farm, and the barriers, enablers, opportunities and constraints for biodiversity protection in Natura 2000 agricultural areas.

WP2: Collection of research findings and best practices

To develop an innovative, transdisciplinary methodological framework for identifying farmers' needs and knowledge gaps in implementing BFF practices and collecting existing best practices on BFF that may respond to farmers' needs and
knowledge gaps. We will account for farm and landscape characteristics and the social network they are embedded in.

WP3: Networking and knowledge exchange – First phase

To establish 12 Farming and Biodiversity National Networks (FaB NNs) and set up an EU thematic network. To provide trainings for network members. To organise national and international knowledge-sharing events. To establish cooperation with EIP OGs.

WP4: Networking and knowledge exchange – Second phase

To provide trainings for network members. To organise national and international knowledge-sharing events. To continually cooperate with EIP OGs.

WP5: Development of BFF decision-making toolbox

To provide farmers/foresters with a practical and attractive toolbox to ease their decision-making and stimulate them to adopt, maintain or/and expand BFF. The specific objectives are to (i) Make available an online tool (Navigator) providing
an overview of the available BFF incentives and (ii) Create a cost-benefit analysis of BFF practices, resulting in an online tool (Calculator).

WP6: Dissemination, Exploitation and Communication – First phase

To develop, implement and produce a comprehensive Dissemination, Exploitation and Communication (DEC) plan, and a range of communication and dissemination activities. To also provide support and build upon the skills of the Thematic
network members for the successful implementation of activities.

WP7: Dissemination, Exploitation and Communication – Second phase

To continue to, develop and implement the comprehensive Dissemination, Exploitation and Communication plan (DEC), and a range of communication and dissemination activities. To also provide support and build upon the skills of Thematic network members for the successful implementation of project activities.

WP8: Coordinating, networking, and data management – First phase

To maintain an effective and friendly working atmosphere among consortium partners, the European Commission and external stakeholders. Administer project resources so project objectives are met, and all tasks are completed within their
allocated timelines and budgets. Ensure the punctual delivery of quality Deliverables. Develop a Project management Plan and implement agreed project management procedures. Ensure data gathering procedures are based on a sound legal basis and performed according to the GDPR Regulation (EU) 2016/679 and relevant national legislation. Ensure that technical and financial reports are delivered on time and are in line with the requirements and standards set out in the Grant Agreement.

WP9: Coordinating, networking, and data management – Second phase

Continue to maintain an effective and friendly working atmosphere among consortium partners, the European Commission and external stakeholders. Administer project resources so that the project objectives are met, and all tasks
are completed within their allocated timelines and budgets. Ensure the punctual delivery of quality Deliverables and Milestones and final reporting. Update Project handbook. Develop practical policy recommendations.

WP10: Ethics requirements

The objective is to ensure compliance with the 'ethics requirements' set out in this work package.