Nordic biodiversity took center stage in Copenhagen
Advancing nordic collaboration for biodiversity protection was the main theme when researchers and stakeholders from Iceland, Finland, and Denmark met in Copenhagen in December for a two-day workshop.
The question of how Denmark’s efforts to maintain and restore biodiversity compare to efforts in the other Nordic countries, and how non-government stakeholders can contribute to protecting biodiversity was the center of attention on 10-11 December, when the third workshop in the Nordic Network on Biodiversity took place at the Royal Academy of Sciences and Letters in Copenhagen, hosted by Research Centre on Ocean, Climate and Society (ROCS), and Center for Macroecology, Evolution and Climate (CMEC) in collaboration with Sustainability Science Centre and Nordic Council of Ministers.
Moderated by Professor Katherine Richardson, the workshop emphasized the critical role of non-state actors in driving biodiversity protection as evidenced by the participation and keynotes of experts, including Carsten Rahbek (University of Copnehagen), Skúli Skúlason (Hólar University), Ole Sandberg (University of Iceland), Snorri Sigurðsson (University of Iceland), and Hanna-Kaisa Lakka (University of Jyväskylä).
In a combination of presentations and plenary discussions, the workshop theme was further motivated by participation and engagement by several experts and stakeholders, including Anders Horsten (Danish Society for Nature Conservation), Signe Normand (Aarhus University and the Danish Biodiversity Council), Liselotte Hohwy Stokholm (Tænketanken Hav), Karin Klitgaard (Danish Industry), and biologist and public debater Alexander Holm.
Key insights and outcomes
Key insights and outcomes gained from the two-day workshop, includes comparative lessons examplified by the fact that Finland, Iceland, and Denmark have very different infrastructures for biodiversity protection. While the threats vary, ranging from business interests to defense activities, common challenges highlight the need for collective action.
Also, a unified Nordic approach is essential in terms of policy alignment. Here, harmonizing the definition of “protected areas” across countries, in alignment with EU guidelines, emerged as a top priority. In addition, the value of a shared Nordic biodiversity strategy was underscored, particularly by businesses operating across multiple countries. Such a framework can address the tension between economic development and environmental stewardship.
Finally, the question of local empowerment was brought up with reference to the fact that dynamic ecosystems require dynamic management. Polycentric governance models that empower local communities to act as custodians of biodiversity were thus highlighted as key to success.
"The highly relevant discussion points and sharing of knowledge that took place during the workshop show the importance of bringing together researchers and other relevant stakeholders to identify the most important societal levers that can be used to protect biodiversity. This is something we will definately do again", says Professor Katherine Richardson.
For further information, you can find and download the workshop presentations as PDF here:
Workshop presentations 10-11 December 2024
Contact
Professor and Center Leader
Katherine Richardson