BioUP Communities for Biodiversity
We live in a time when biodiversity is disappearing faster than ever as a result of human activities. Although awareness of nature conservation is increasing, many people still lack the knowledge and practical opportunities to take part in protecting biodiversity.
The Erasmus+ project BioUP – Communities for Biodiversity aims to strengthen the knowledge, skills and engagement of rural communities in biodiversity conservation. The project helps local people better understand the natural values of their territories, actively participate in exploring them and acquire practical skills that contribute both to nature conservation and to the sustainable development of rural areas.
BioUP brings together six partner organisations from Portugal, Italy, Spain and Latvia. Activities are implemented in four outstanding European natural and cultural heritage areas: the Moura/Mourão/Barrancos Natura 2000 site in Portugal, the UNESCO World Heritage vineyard landscape of Langhe-Roero and Monferrato in Italy, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ibiza in Spain, and the North Vidzeme Biosphere Reserve in Latvia. These territories share exceptional natural values and a common ambition to preserve and sustainably enhance them for future generations.
In Latvia, project activities are implemented in the North Vidzeme Biosphere Reserve, promoting public awareness of local biodiversity, encouraging community participation in its exploration and identifying ways to use biodiversity as a driver of sustainable regional development.
4 dimensions of BioUP
KNOW
Protecting nature begins with understanding it. The project develops digital visual databases of local flora and fauna, helping communities discover the biodiversity around them and better understand its importance.
CONNECT
Biodiversity conservation depends on people’s active involvement. BioUP strengthens cooperation between researchers and local communities through citizen science initiatives, enabling residents to contribute observations and valuable data that support both scientific research and nature conservation.
TRAIN
BioUP develops a modern adult learning course that helps participants understand biodiversity, ecosystem functioning and the role people play in protecting nature. The course focuses on practical knowledge that participants can apply in their everyday lives.
VALUE
Biodiversity is not only a natural asset but also a resource for sustainable development. The project collects and promotes good practices demonstrating how biodiversity can support responsible entrepreneurship, nature-based tourism and other local economic activities while ensuring the long-term conservation of natural values.
