How transdisciplinarity can help biotech-driven biodiversity research.

Abstract

The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework marks a significant step toward conserving genetic diversity on a global scale. Sequencing advancements have broadened biodiversity studies by enabling the mapping of species distributions, increasing understanding of ecological interactions, and monitoring genetic diversity. However, these tools are hindered by inequalities and biases, particularly in biodiversity-rich developing countries. To navigate these challenges, we propose strategies using the existing biotechnological toolbox to make biodiversity data more accessible and useful for research and development. This includes increasing funding for database curation, improving metadata standards, addressing inequalities in technological capacity, and supporting holistic capacity-building programmes. Implementing these strategies can unlock new opportunities for biodiversity research aligned with sustainable development principles and can contribute to improved conservation outcomes.