As global biodiversity continues to decline, a new international study published in Nature presents a powerful framework for identifying the “missing” species from ecosystems, species that could exist in a habitat but are currently absent. Known as dark diversity, these absent species form an invisible frontier of ecological potential, offering a tool to better understand habitat degradation and inform conservation priorities.

Soil carbon content decreases for up to 30 years following clear-cutting in forested areas, according to a major study from the Nordic countries and Canada.

The wild reindeer in Norway no longer use the calving grounds surrounding the public tourist cabin Pyttbua. Should the Government allow the cabin to be upgraded—or should tourism in the area rather be limited? The Norwegian Institute for Nature Research (NINA) has simulated the potential consequences.

Large carnivores have returned to Europe—but the wolf protection status is being reduced. A major EU-funded project, led from Norway, aims to identify how to ensure the best possible coexistence between people and carnivores.

Since 2007, 200 Norwegian sea eagle chicks have found a new home in Ireland. This summer the final release of fledglings in Ireland marks the completion of the establishment phase of the white-tailed sea eagle project. 

The fitness app Strava provides insight into how forest clear-cutting affects Norwegians’ recreation activities. Experts argue that the value from recreation services lost due to clear-cutting exceeds the value of timber provisioning services gained, particularly in peri-urban forests.

A study of deer poo in North Wales could shed light on the conservation of woodlands in the UK.

As human activity increasingly pressures ecosystems, biodiversity offsetting—balancing losses in one area with gains elsewhere—has become a growing tool for conservation, although with significant challenges. A new paper by NINA experts explores how integrating ecosystem accounting can enhance biodiversity offsetting, offering a promising approach to make conservation efforts more effective and transparent.

BioAgora, in partnership with the Norwegian Institute for Nature Research (NINA), announces a funding call for capacity development initiatives under the Science-Policy-Society Interface (SPSI). 

As Europe strives for a sustainable energy future, the ambitious EU funded initiative ReHydro are underway to improve energy production of existing hydropower plants. By integrating new technologies and enhancing environmental conditions, the project will ensure that hydropower continues to play a key role in the region’s energy landscape.

A new handbook gives guidance and practical examples for the implementation of nature-based solutions across various ecosystems and for specific societal challenges.

A new report reveals numerous knowledge gaps concerning possible effects of seaweed harvesting on seabirds and shorebirds in Norway. Stakeholders call for stricter regulations.

1.9 billion invertebrates and 800 million seeds. That’s the number of stowaways arriving to Norway via garden plants every year. The costs could be sky high.

The first quantitative assessment of microplastics in seabird faeces in Northern Europe shows presence of microplastics in European shag (Gulosus aristotelis) chicks. This provides valuable baseline information and confirms that minimal-invasive sampling of faeces for plastic monitoring in seabirds is possible.

The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework headline indicator “Services Provided by Ecosystems (B.1)” has been tested using data from six countries and regions including Norway. Working on behalf of the CBD AHTEG on indicators, the results are now published.

Left as is this, coastal stretch in Longyearbyen is likely to be washed away by the waves in the foreseeable future. However, with simple measures the area can be transformed into a recreational site for the locals, a refuge for marine life and simultaneously serve as effective mitigation against coastal erosion, and set a pioneering example for the rest of the Arctic.

The Nordic Board for Wildlife Research (NKV) has announced its second 2024 open call. Head over to The Nordic Board for Wildlife Research website to apply for funding. You can apply for funding for workshops (organization or attendance), symposia (organization or attendance), visits to researchers in other countries, networks, and networking activities as well as scientific courses.

In September, 53 leading experts from 3 continents met to share and build expertise on Sphagnum, the world’s most important peat building plant genus, and gain momentum for global conservation and restoration efforts.

The protected and slow-growing cold-water corals in the fjords of Norway are entangled in fishing gear. Worrying, say experts, as more or less all areas are impacted by fishing.

Roads, agriculture and micro power stations have been legally established in protected waterways throughout Norway. Now, on behalf of the national water resources and energy authority, NINA experts will map the magnitude of these developments and how much intact nature ​​we have left in our protected waterways.