Knowledge Hub
Hands-On Biodiversity
Did you know that...?
Biodiversity is essential for life on Earth—from the food we eat to the air we breathe. Yet it’s vanishing at an alarming rate due to climate change, industrial agriculture, and urbanisation. The loss of biodiversity threatens ecosystems, food security, and human well-being. But there’s hope: by protecting biodiversity, we also protect our future.
At our “Biodiversity” Capacity Building workshop, we explored nature-based solutions that show how farming, tourism, and community action can work together to preserve ecosystems. We also discussed EU funding opportunities to scale up agroecological practices and ecological restoration.
What’s other people doing about it?
Hof vErde (Germany). This community farm uses syntropic agroforestry to regenerate land and enhance biodiversity. On just 3,000 m², they cultivate over 2,000 perennial food plants, 1,200 aromatic herbs, and 1,600 biomass species. Their approach mimics natural succession to restore soil microbiomes and support wildlife—demonstrating that farming and biodiversity can thrive together.
Organic Farmers (Ukraine). Despite the devastating impact of war on ecosystems, Ukrainian organic farmers continue to champion biodiversity. Through wild plant collection, ecotourism, and organic practices in less-affected regions, they support both ecological resilience and local livelihoods. As highlighted by the Organic Federation of Ukraine, their work contributes to soil recovery and greenhouse gas reduction under incredibly difficult conditions.
Agriturismo Su Stai – Podere Valbella (Italy). In Sardinia, this cooperative combines agrotourism with biodiversity conservation. By cultivating ancient local varieties of legumes and fruits and protecting endangered animals like the Sardinian donkey, they promote agro-biodiversity while fostering cultural identity. Their community-driven initiatives bring biodiversity education into schools and local communities.
EURAF & Agroforestry (Europe-wide). Leon Bessert, German delegate to the European Agroforestry Federation (EURAF), shared how agroforestry integrates trees into farmland to enhance biodiversity, improve soil, and build resilience against climate change. This approach supports food production while restoring ecosystems across Europe.
These inspiring case studies were all presented during our training – check out their presentations to explore how biodiversity and sustainability go hand in hand.
