The BioDT project has released a new policy brief that outlines how Biodiversity Digital Twins can become key enablers of the EU’s environmental and digital ambitions. Titled “Strengthening Biodiversity Digital Twins for EU Policy Impact,” the brief is now publicly accessible on Zenodo and will soon be published as a policy paper in the RIO Journal.
Rooted in a detailed analysis of EU strategies - such as the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030, Green Deal, Data Strategy, and Climate Adaptation Plan—and validated through a dedicated co-creation workshop with the BioDT consortium, the policy brief identifies five major challenge areas that currently limit the full potential of biodiversity digital twins:
- Gaps in data generation and monitoring
- Limited technological maturity and AI integration
- Lack of clearly defined policy-relevant parameters
- Insufficient data interoperability across infrastructures
- Missed opportunities for cross-project synergies
A Vision for Policy-Ready Digital Twins
The policy brief offers actionable recommendations for EU policymakers, including:
- Establishing a European Biodiversity Observatory to enable real-time, cross-border monitoring;
- Supporting ethical and validated AI tools to strengthen scenario modelling and risk forecasting;
- Promoting integration between BioDT, Destination Earth (DestinE), and other Research Infrastructures;
- Encouraging funding programmes that build partnerships and foster long-term sustainability.
Next Steps
This policy brief is part of BioDT’s broader effort to ensure its digital twin solutions are not only scientifically robust but also technically usable and policy-aligned. Its upcoming publication in the RIO Journal will ensure greater visibility and engagement with both the research and policy-making communities across Europe.