IPBES Seeks Expertise for Vital Biodiversity Monitoring Assessment

The Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) has initiated the process for its methodological assessment on monitoring biodiversity and nature's contributions to people, known as the "monitoring assessment." The objective of this assessment is to support both national and global endeavours in monitoring biodiversity, nature's contributions to people, and the causes driving observed changes. Furthermore, it aims to track progress towards the goals and targets of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, contributing to the Convention on Biological Diversity. This assessment will also play a vital role in monitoring the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals, along with other relevant international environmental agreements and initiatives.

IPBES invites experts and practitioners from various domains, including academia, government and civil society, to participate in this assessment. The assessment will encompass a wide array of expertise, including but not limited to ecology, evolution, social science, economics, statistics and biodiversity modelling. Experts with experience in monitoring biodiversity and nature's contributions to people across terrestrial, freshwater and marine ecosystems, as well as using diverse technologies such as environmental DNA, ecological acoustics and artificial intelligence are encouraged to participate. Additionally, experts in citizen science, indicators, policy and decision-making are sought after.

Ensuring gender balance in nominations is a priority for IPBES, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity.

Nominated experts must be available to attend relevant author meetings, with the first author meeting tentatively scheduled for October 2024.

Governments, organizations and institutions are encouraged to submit nominations. The status of being an observer in the IPBES Plenary is not a requirement for nominating entities.

Procedure for nomination

Nominees are invited to complete the application form and attach their curriculum vitae through the dedicated web portal here. Nominees who haven't registered on the IPBES website should do so here. Please note that the nomination form is available in English and applications should be submitted in English since the assessment process will be conducted in English.

The nominating government or organization (Nominator) indicated by the Nominee will receive an email with a link to the nomination form and will be invited to approve and submit the nominations in the web portal.

Nominators and Nominees will receive confirmation via email once the nomination has been submitted.

Experts who wish to be nominated by a Government are encouraged to contact their IPBES National Focal Point regarding country-specific processes or deadlines. Interested experts are advised to review the information document summarizing IPBES assessment conditions and roles prior to submitting their application link.

It's important to note that experts selected for roles within IPBES assessments are expected to contribute their time on a pro-bono basis. Experts from developing countries will receive support to attend author meetings, while those from developed countries are expected to secure their own funding to participate.

Nominators (Governments or organizations) should submit the nominations of all Nominees they wish to support before 6 January 2024. Early nominations ahead of this deadline are highly encouraged.

Your expertise is vital in addressing the global challenges of biodiversity loss and ensuring a sustainable future for our planet. IPBES appreciates your active participation in shaping the future of biodiversity monitoring and conservation.