GBF15 | [Workshop] Genome(ics)‑enabled indicators for biodiversity targets [SIGN-UP NEEDED, SEE DESCRIPTION]
[Workshop] Genome(ics)‑enabled indicators for biodiversity targets [SIGN-UP NEEDED, SEE DESCRIPTION]
Convener: Robert Waterhouse | Co-conveners: Chiara Bortoluzzi, Christian de Guttry
Sun, 14 Jun, 10:30–14:30|Room Aspen 1
Sun, 10:30
Genomics offers robust, scalable tools to track biodiversity change, yet genomic indicators remain underused in national monitoring and the GBF framework. This workshop tackles the gap between scientific readiness and policy uptake. We will identify where genomics strengthens Essential Biodiversity Variables (EBVs) and Essential Ocean Variables (EOVs), how to align these indicators across borders, and what is needed to make them operational. Particular attention will be given to two key challenges: establishing national baselines for genomic data and translating genomic results into clear, accessible information for society, decision-makers, and politicians.

Duration 2 × 90-min, AM + PM

Aims
Identify the added value of genomics in estimation and use of EBVs and EOVs that goes beyond country borders
Map existing and emerging genomics-based EBVs and EOVs to GBF targets for species, genomics, and ecosystem integrity, supporting targets 2, 3, 4, and 12
Identify technical, legal, capacity, and any other barriers to integrating genomic indicators into national monitoring and reporting
Discuss how countries can establish robust genomic data baselines that support comparable monitoring across borders
Explore how genomic results can be communicated and implemented in an easy-to-understand way for society at large, including policymakers and politicians
Design a roadmap linking (meta)data standards, FAIR repositories, best data management practices, and funding to encourage uptake of genomics so data guides decisions

Format
The workshop will include two short talks given by the organisers, one at the beginning of the first session and one at the beginning of the second session. These will be followed by round-table discussions focused on finding common solutions to two main challenges: establishing genomic data baselines in each country and improving the uptake of genomic results by making them clear, accessible, and useful for society, decision-makers, and politicians. The workshop will conclude with a plenary synthesis using real-time polling.

Expected Outcomes
Workshop report for the GBF monitoring framework secretariat, archived on Zenodo
Draft outline of a perspective article on the important steps to be taken to ensure the uptake of genomics-enabled indicators for biodiversity targets

We welcome participants from research, government, conservation NGOs, business/finance, and IPLCs. No abstract submission is required. We will ensure diversity in gender, career stage, and geographic representation and will advertise the event widely.

Link to register: https://www.cognitoforms.com/ERGAEuropeanReferenceGenomeAtlas/WBFDavosGenomeicsenabledIndicatorsForBiodiversityTargets