eLTER RI as integrative and collaborative framework enabling multi- and transdisciplinary research in terrestrial, freshwater and transitional water ecosystems

Addressing complex and interlinked environmental challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution and socio-ecological transformations requires a collaborative, transdisciplinary, and data-driven approach. In response, the European Long-Term Ecosystem, critical zone and socio-ecological Research Infrastructure (eLTER RI) implements a 'whole system' approach at the continental scale. This presentation introduces eLTER RI as a platform for research based on long-term, high-resolution data collection across diverse ecosystems, enabling the disentanglement of fast disturbances such as storms, from slow-onset processes like climate warming. A central building block is the eLTER Standard Observations framework, which harmonises data collection across 65 variables on five ecosystem spheres (geo- & pedosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, socio-econosphere and lower atmosphere), major abiotic, biotic and socio-ecological characteristics and fluxes (matter, energy, water). The framework ensures consistency and comparability of data across sites, facilitating the development of large-scale data products and cross-site comparisons. Case studies, including the impacts of landscape management on pollinators and trends in benthic invertebrate populations caused by changing natural and anthropogenic pressures, demonstrate the value of standardised, long-term observations for understanding environmental processes and supporting continental-scale analyses. The presentation also addresses the challenges of upscaling site-specific observations to broader trends and the integration of socio-economic data to better understand human-environment interactions. By linking ecological and socio-economic factors, eLTER RI provides insights that inform evidence-based decision-making and policy development. Addressing scientists, infrastructure operators, data managers, policymakers, and stakeholders alike, we will highlight the critical role of integrated research infrastructures in advancing environmental science and tackling pressing global challenges.