BMD Workshop in Barcelona

BioDiMoBot partners SYRION and UDUR at the BMD workshop on biodiversity monitoring and nature conservation

Preparing for eDNA sampling at a pond in the Sant Llorenç del Munt i l’Obac Natural Park

Photo credit: Werner Rom (SYRION)

Last week, BioDiMoBot, represented by Werner Rom (SYRION) and Farshad Arvin (University of Durham), participated in a three-day workshop organized by its “sister project” Biodiversity Meets Data (BMD) in Barcelona. This event marked the first in a planned series of workshops designed to support Natura 2000 site managers and EU conservation practitioners.

The workshop focused on hands-on training and practical experience in biodiversity monitoring using plug-and-play technologies. Participants were introduced to a range of tools designed to support the detection of species under key EU directives, including the Habitats Directive, Birds Directive, Water Framework Directive, and Marine Strategy Framework Directive, as well as associated data management approaches. This included camera traps with AI-based species identification, environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling combined with AI-supported analysis, and methods for publishing biodiversity data to the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF).

A highlight of the program was an excursion to the Sant Llorenç del Munt i l’Obac Natural Park, a Natura 2000 site and UNESCO Global Geopark north of Barcelona. The area is characterized by geological formations that have developed over the past 40 million years – originating from a shallow, dried-up inland sea and a prehistoric river delta - through

subsequent tectonic and erosion processes. The park is home to dense holm oak forests as well as a rich variety of flora and fauna, making it an ideal location for practical demonstrations on biodiversity monitoring.

During the excursion, participants enjoyed eDNA sampling from a pond at a refreshing 30°C, thoughtfully enhanced by the comfort of rubber gloves. The field visit also included hands-on demonstrations of BMD devices - such as 4G camera traps and acoustic sensors - deployed in a real-world setting.

Niels Raes, coordinator of BMD, demonstrating 4G camera traps

Photo credit: Werner Rom (SYRION)

For BioDiMoBot, the workshop offered valuable opportunities for exchange and networking with partners of BMD, Natura 2000 site managers, as well as representatives from environmental agencies, ministries, universities and companies. BioDiMoBot was presented both during the workshop sessions and in bilateral discussions, allowing for in-depth exchanges on the BioDiMoBot’s approach and its complementarities with BMD solutions.

We would like to thank the BMD coordinator, Niels Raes, and the whole team for the excellent organization and moderation of the workshop!

Written by: Dr. Werner Rom