The BioGemTwin project addresses the cross-border challenge of mitigating the impact of climate change on biodiversity. It puts its focus on modelling/simulating the future impacts of climate change on biodiversity and on designing measures based on a digital innovative solution in the form of a digital twin prototype. We will present the digital twin as a digital supporting tool for decision-makers in the preparation of a strategy for the protection of biodiversity in the cross-border area. The strategy will be the key result of the project.

The strategy will be developed in two pilot areas, 1 in Slovenia and 1 in Hungary. It will be based on an interdisciplinary approach and most important as an example of combining expertise in the field of biodiversity and digital technologies (artificial intelligence). Using the BioGemTwin project as an example, we will demonstrate how two key EU policies (green and digital transition) can be combined, whereby digital tools and innovative tools can support the development of more comprehensive and high quality environmental/green solutions.

In the frame of the project, a cross-border network of experts and decision-makers will be established, from which we will draw expertise for the implementation of project activities. Consortium members and external experts, decision-makers and other stakeholders will be included in the network. Securing the conditions for data collection is one of project milestones. The project team will analyse the existing data and enable the collection of new data by implementing field work activities and placing sensors in the two pilot areas.

During the research/scientific process, we will determine the parameters and indicators on which the digital twin prototype will be based. A scientific approach in data collection is important as credible data must be entered in the digital twin. The first functionality of the digital twin will be the presentation of the current situation in the field of biodiversity. Another functionality will be the ability to monitor changes in real time. The third functionality will enable simulations of climate change impact scenarios on biodiversity. All three functionalities (primarily the presentation of the current situation and simulations) will be the foundation for the development of measures that will be included in the strategy for the protection of biodiversity in the cross-border area.

An important condition for the successful implementation of the project is developing trust for the project approach by expert stakeholders and citizens. We want to prevent scepticism towards the application of modern digital tools for the development of measures in the field of biodiversity. Consequently, we will implement advocacy activities in the form of community events and media/communication activities. This will ensure a participatory approach and transparency. We will devote attention to educational activities, as the application of the digital twin is poorly known among professionals, citizens, and decision-makers.

By organizing education activities, we will encourage involvement of local communities, regional and national authorities, and professional organizations, as our ambition is to encourage broad use of the cross-border strategy and the digital twin by stakeholders in the future. In this way, we will ensure that the digital twin is being upgraded and used in the cross-border area after the project completion.

We have assembled a consortium where each partner represents an added value. We have secured the involvement of two municipalities/local communities (pilot areas), expert organization in the field of biodiversity, expert organization in the field of artificial intelligence and expert organization with knowledge and skills in the field of advocacy and communication.

Project end date:

31.10.2028