Sustainable agriculture can benefit from online biodiversity data for better understanding and management of agrobiodiversity. However, according to online data providers and database curators, the use of online biodiversity... [ view full abstract ]
Sustainable agriculture can benefit from online biodiversity data for better understanding and management of agrobiodiversity. However, according to online data providers and database curators, the use of online biodiversity data by agricultural stakeholders is still substantially limited. One of the perceived barriers expressed by users is the quality and the incomplete coverage of information regarding different taxonomic groups, both at temporal and spatial scales. These limitations influence the users’ perception of the level of confidence of these data for later use. In addition, different stakeholders linked to agrobiodiversity may have different information needs. Collaboration between institutions (e.g. governments, academia, and civil society) is essential for identifying real specific information requirements. This paper reports the result’s analysis of the focus groups and on-line surveys implemented for agrobiodiversity stakeholders regarding in relation to the flows and needs for information on biodiversity data. It addresses interactions among stakeholders, highlighting those that have essential roles related to agrobiodiversity. It also assesses the main motivations for the use of online data by agrobiodiversity stakeholders, keeping in mind the sources and types of data required in these databases.
The mixed method used consisted of: three focus groups (producers, regulators and researchers; n=16) of the Alentejo wine chain (Portugal); and an on-line questionnaire answered by agrobiodiversity stakeholders in Portugal and Spain (producers, regulator, and researchers; n=86). Interactions between the three groups and the various institutions associated with agrobiodiversity (both in focus groups and in online survey) were mapped to understand their exchanges and to identify key stakeholders, who may have greater capacity for information control for each group. Interaction maps for total data (focus groups and online surveys) indicate that universities play an important role in the exchange of information. However, communication flaws between researchers and other groups were reported, as well as the lack of sharing of information beyond the academic environment. We found that among the three groups, producers have the least use of online biodiversity data, followed by regulators and researchers. In addition, different groups identified distinct needs for information and products. They also recognized gaps in available databases, such as the lack of information tailored to their own needs. To provide useful answers, the planning of information management in digital databases needs to be tailored to the needs of each agrobiodiversity stakeholder group. We also need to use an accessible language that allows for easier and more flexible use of data across all group types. Concerning the interaction among agrobiodiversity stakeholders, there seems to be inconsistencies in the flow of information and a reduced exchange of information between researchers and producers, which may constrain the value of knowledge about biodiversity, especially for the agricultural sector, by mitigating the positive impact of agrobiodiversity in sustainable agriculture.
Keywords: Agrobiodiversity, social network analysis, online surveys, focus group, biodiversity digital databases (Portugal).
1b. Research methods and methodologies (including the role of academia, policy engagement
