Presentation of the Natural Heritage and Biodiversity Observatory of Catalonia

On Wednesday 6 July 2022, the Observatory of Natural Heritage and Biodiversity of Catalonia (OPNB) was presented at the Institut d'Estudis Catalans in Barcelona.

The Natural Heritage and Biodiversity Observatory is a body for sharing knowledge and collaborating to improve nature management and conservation policies, based on reliable and up-to-date scientific knowledge. Promoted by the Department of Climate Action, Food and Rural Agenda, through CREAF and CTFC, it will be made up of research institutions, museums, administrations and others that will form part of the Participation Forum: IRBio_UB, ICO, ICM, Granollers Museum, Natural History Museum, Zoo Foundation, University of Girona, University of Vic, among others. In addition, the OPNB is also aimed at the general public.

Scientific knowledge is key to understanding the country's natural wealth, assessing the state of conservation of species, habitats and natural spaces, as well as adequately orienting management efforts. The OPNB's ultimate mission is to support and guide decision-making on issues related to nature in Catalonia.

The establishment and strengthening of this network is a priority action of the Natural Heritage and Biodiversity Strategy of Catalonia approved by the Government of Catalonia in July 2018, a fact highlighted by the secretary of Acció Climàtica, Anna Barnadas, during the presentation day.

The presentation was also attended by the director general of Environmental Policies and Natural Environment, Marc Vilahur, who wanted to highlight the need for a new approach in the knowledge of biodiversity, in order to achieve a greater degree of knowledge about the current situation of global crisis due to biodiversity loss.

From IRBio, Director F. Xavier Sans, highlighted the importance of sharing knowledge and putting it at the service of the country for a good management of biodiversity and natural heritage, as we have the obligation to preserve biodiversity for future generations. He also highlights IRBio's commitment to participate in the OPNB.