Why BGE+
Why Biodiversity Genomics Matters
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Why BGE+
Species are vanishing, ecosystems are degrading, and the policy-makers crafting the policies to address these challenges depend on data that is often scarce.
Biodiversity genomics may well provide just the right knowledge that policy-makers need to face these challenges. Never before has DNA science been able to identify species, monitor ecosystems, and understand genetic diversity and species adaptation as cheaply, efficiently, and at scale as it can now.
Joining forces
We can not protect what we do not know. The truth of this statement notwithstanding, documenting species is only part of the work. We also need to understand how species adapt to environmental change. That is the reason why BGE+ brings together two different strands of genomics. DNA barcoding allows scientists to identify species quickly and accurately. Genome sequencing provides deeper insights into adaptation, evolution, and resilience. Combined with taxonomic expertise and advanced data systems, these tools are creating entirely new possibilities for understanding and protecting nature. Watch the video below for more on the possibilities of combining DNA barcoding and genome sequencing.
Mustering Europe's genomics
Europe already has world-leading expertise in biodiversity science, taxonomy, genomics, and data management. However, these efforts are often distributed across countries, institutions, and projects. BGE+ will help to connect these communities, harmonise approaches, and ensure that knowledge, tools, and resources can be shared more effectively by the European genomics community.