BioAgora invites experts in urban and peri-urban nature restoration, biodiversity, ecosystem services and greening to contribute to a new knowledge synthesis process in response to a request from the European Commission Directorate-General for Environment (DG ENV). This initiative contributes to the development of a structured framework guiding the selection of suitable plant species, especially trees, for different European regions under changing climate conditions.
The request builds on several key EU policy frameworks, such as the Nature Restoration Regulation (NRR) and the EU Pollinators Initiative, both of which foster the deployment of pollinator-friendly native plant species and biodiversity-sensitive restoration approaches.
BioAgora aims to establish a multidisciplinary expert working group and seeks a balanced range of expertise from different European regions and territorial contexts.
The call is targeted towards knowledge holders in the spheres of:
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urban and peri-urban greening and restoration
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climate-and region-adaptive tree species selection
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pollinator-supporting vegetation
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regulating ecosystem services provided by urban greenery
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local and regional planning and implementation frameworks
The call also welcomes:
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social scientists engaged in biodiversity-related projects
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policymakers from European, national, regional and local authorities
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participatory governance specialists
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industry representatives, practitioners, NGO’s and community greening groups
The overarching aim is to ensure a diverse, cross-sectoral perspective that captures the complexity of urban ecosystem restoration challenges across Europe.
Selected experts will contribute to the knowledge synthesis process through engaging in online workshops and collaborative activities focused on knowledge mapping, evidence review and deliverables assessment.
The commitment is expected to run from June to October 2026 and will be supported by using AI tools under expert supervision. Participation in the process constitutes a contribution to EU policy development, with contributing experts to be acknowledged in the final report and to underpin an initiative that supports long-term urban restoration and biodiversity planning across Europe.
Experts interested in assisting with the process are invited to apply via the designated application form no later than 22 May 2026.