Conference Themes

The Open Data theme highlights advances and refinements in data standards, principles and infrastructures that support more equitable and inclusive representation of and access to biodiversity and geological data, including, but not limited to:

• Development and implementation of shared standards for data collection, maintenance and publication
• Sampling, processing and storage of diverse biodiversity data (e.g., images, bioacoustics, eDNA, remote sensing)
• Evolution of standards, ensuring equitable access and application of FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) principles.
• Collaborative frameworks that respect traditional knowledge and promote equitable access to biodiversity information (e.g., the technical application of CARE principles)
• Advances in data standards to include comprehensive representation of biodiversity and geological dimensions

FAIR · CARE

The Data Integration theme examines workflows, technologies and data products that bridge the gaps between raw observation data, scientific research and needs of policy-makers. Topics may include:

• New technologies for data integration in cross-disciplinary bio- and geo-diversity research
• Application of Artificial Intelligence to enhance biodiversity data analysis
• Advances in Earth observation (EO) for biodiversity monitoring
• Data-intensive taxonomy and comprehensive taxonomic lists
• Fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders in biodiversity research

The Biodiversity Data Application theme explores how we practice and prioritize data collection, analysis, and knowledge expansion for education, research, conservation, and policy creation. Trends, action areas and best practices may include:

• Critical data gaps and comprehensive assessment of global biodiversity trends
• Application of data-intensive science for policy implementation
• Advances in monitoring ecosystem services
• Value of digitized historical data for research and policy decisions
• Coordination of national, regional, and global biodiversity observation efforts

The Community Engagement theme explores the practical and theoretical importance of engagement with diverse scientific, education, Indigenous and local communities. These collaborations and interactions may influence a wide variety of processes and outcomes, including:

• Local and Indigenous community-based initiatives
• Implementing CARE Principles in research and decision-making
• Indigenous Metadata Bundle and knowledge sharing
• Addressing sociotechnical challenges between Global North and Global South
• Capacity building of digital skills and competencies

CARE