To address the challenges raised above, the BISON project envisages a symbiotic relationship between two key commons: biodiversity and infrastructure, promoting resilience in both areas. To realise this vision, the project developed a Strategic Research and Deployment Agenda (SRDA) comprising several key elements: (1) it synthesises existing knowledge, making it accessible to stakeholders and facilitating its widespread adoption. (2) it proposes a clear research path to address environmental challenges in a holistic way, encompassing ecological, societal, developmental and governance aspects and avoiding duplication of funding and effort. (3) it identifies gaps and opportunities in policy and funding, paving the way for a coherent, action- oriented approach.
Building upon a 30-year incremental process, the BISON project capitalises on previous efforts to mainstream biodiversity and transport, such as the publication of the European Wildlife and Traffic Handbook in 2003, which emerged from a European Union-funded COST Action. As mobility patterns have evolved over the past two decades, necessitating biodiversity mainstreaming beyond roads and rail to encompass waterways, ports, airports, powerlines, pipelines, and even renewable energy infrastructure, the project compiles current best practices and updates evidence-based guidelines. Additionally, it recognises the growing urgency of addressing specific issues at the interface of biodiversity loss and climate change, such as barrier effects on wild species populations and the spread of invasive alien species.
Moving forward, the BISON project emphasises the need to bridge the gap between local ecology and broader societal issues by addressing planning, multi-stakeholder interactions, psychology, governance, and long-term observatories. It acknowledges that despite the wealth of existing knowledge, challenges persist due to fragmented approaches across technical, scientific, and administrative silos. Exploring synergies and implementing long-term actions on the ground necessitates scenario modelling and policy integration within the framework of Horizon Europe. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of incorporating social sciences and humanities in biodiversity and infrastructure research, as well as enhancing monitoring, data sharing, and effectiveness assessment of mitigation solutions.
