What are the best solutions for biodiversity monitoring and mapping

“Up to date and accurate environmental data is critical to National Highways and were able to develop bespoke solutions that were focused on generating habitat data using remote sensing. They had a strong understanding of our key drivers and challenges, which means they were well placed to provide insights and methodologies that could effectively support delivery of our environmental commitments.” ~ Ben Hewlett, Senior Environmental Advisor – Safety, Engineering and Standards, Highways England

Monitoring and mapping biodiversity involves collecting and analyzing data about the distribution, abundance, and diversity of living organisms in a particular ecosystem. Using this data, we can gain a better understanding of ecosystem health, identify areas with high biodiversity, track changes in biodiversity over time, and make informed conservation and management decisions.

Field Surveys

Field surveys involve direct observation and sampling of living organisms in a given area. This is a traditional method of biodiversity mapping and monitoring, and it can provide detailed and accurate information on the distribution and abundance of individual species.

However, field surveys are time-consuming and costly, and they may not be feasible for large-scale mapping and monitoring projects. In addition, they may not provide a comprehensive view of biodiversity, as some species may be difficult to observe or sample.

Remote Sensing

Satellites or aerial images are used in remote sensing to gather data about the surface of the Earth. The data can be used as a tool for identifying high biodiversity areas, tracking biodiversity changes over time, as well as informing conservation and management plans.

Remote sensing can be carried out using a range of sensors, including optical, radar, and lidar sensors. Each of these sensors has its strengths and limitations, and the best solution depends on the specific needs and goals of the project.

Optical sensors, for example, are good at detecting vegetation and water, while radar sensors can penetrate clouds and vegetation to detect land cover and surface features. The use of lidar sensors can provide detailed information about forests and ecosystems in 3D.

Back in Time

The purpose of back-in-time mapping and monitoring is to understand changes in biodiversity over time by using historical records such as maps, photographs, and written accounts. Species distribution and abundance can be determined from this, as well as how human activities have affected ecosystems historically.

Back in time mapping and monitoring can be carried out using a range of methods, including historical ecology, paleoecology, and archaeology. Each of these methods has its strengths and limitations, and the best solution depends on the specific needs and goals of the project.

To understand biodiversity changes over time, historical ecology uses historical records and ecological data. Human activities can have a significant impact on ecosystems and can be useful for guiding conservation and management strategies. 

In paleoecology, fossil records are studied to understand biodiversity changes over geological time. Species distributions and abundances can be traced historically, as well as the impacts of environmental change on ecosystems. 

By studying human artifacts and other evidence, archaeologists can discover how biodiversity has changed over time. Using this information can provide valuable insight into the impacts of human activities on ecosystems as well as help guide conservation and management efforts.