Publication Details

Category Text Publication
Reference Category Journals
DOI 10.1016/j.biocon.2016.09.006
Document accepted manuscript
Title (Primary) Taking stock of nature: Essential biodiversity variables explained
Author Brummitt, N.; Regan, E.; Weatherdon, L.V.; Martin, C.S.; Geijzendorffer, I.R.; Rocchini, D.; Gavish, Y.; Haase, P.; Marsh, C.J.; Schmeller, D.S.
Source Titel Biological Conservation
Year 2017
Department NSF
Volume 213
Issue Part B
Page From 252
Page To 255
Language englisch
Keywords Biodiversity; Indicator; Priority measurement; Biodiversity observation network; Living planet index; UK spring index
UFZ wide themes RU1
Abstract In 2013, the Group on Earth Observations Biodiversity Observation Network (GEO BON) developed the framework of Essential Biodiversity Variables (EBVs), inspired by the Essential Climate Variables (ECVs). The EBV framework was developed to distill the complexity of biodiversity into a manageable list of priorities and to bring a more coordinated approach to observing biodiversity on a global scale. However, efforts to address the scientific challenges associated with this task have been hindered by diverse interpretations of the definition of an EBV. Here, the authors define an EBV as a critical biological variable that characterizes an aspect of biodiversity, functioning as the interface between raw data and indicators. This relationship is clarified through a multi-faceted stock market analogy, drawing from relevant examples of biodiversity indicators that use EBVs, such as the Living Planet Index and the UK Spring Index. Through this analogy, the authors seek to make the EBV concept accessible to a wider audience, especially to non-specialists and those in the policy sector, and to more clearly define the roles of EBVs and their relationship with biodiversity indicators. From this we expect to support advancement towards globally coordinated measurements of biodiversity.
Persistent UFZ Identifier https://www.ufz.de/index.php?en=20939&ufzPublicationIdentifier=18152
Brummitt, N., Regan, E., Weatherdon, L.V., Martin, C.S., Geijzendorffer, I.R., Rocchini, D., Gavish, Y., Haase, P., Marsh, C.J., Schmeller, D.S. (2017):
Taking stock of nature: Essential biodiversity variables explained
Biol. Conserv. 213 (Part B), 252 - 255 10.1016/j.biocon.2016.09.006