GEO Biodiversity Observation Network

The planet is currently experiencing unprecedented biodiversity loss. To reverse this crisis, policymakers need accessible and reliable biodiversity data. Without a coordinated global biodiversity observation network, the lack of environmental observations and technologies to track biodiversity change will persist.

GEO BON is a global network and community of practice that provides biodiversity knowledge to national and international organizations. GEO BON strengthens the collection, coordination, and delivery of biodiversity observations and related services to users such as policymakers and scientists.

By increasing the availability of quality biodiversity data, GEO BON supports the reporting needs of national governments and policy bodies such as the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES), and the Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework.

The GEO BON team is made up of:

• A management committee responsible for GEO BON operations.
• An implementation committee composed of ~50 co-leads of GEO BON’s working groups, task forces, and biodiversity observation networks. The committee is responsible for delivering the GEO BON implementation plan.
• Working Groups are responsible for the global biodiversity monitoring system's concepts, techniques, and instruments, with a focus on the Essential Biodiversity Variables.
• Biodiversity Observations Networks apply and test concepts, processes, and tools; collect observations; and provide data to the community and users.
• An advisory board that provides strategic direction, feedback, and fundraising support.

The GEO BON secretariat is hosted at McGill University in Montreal, Canada.