Impact of COVID-19 on Global Biodiversity Monitoring

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted biodiversity monitoring worldwide. A study published in March 2025 revealed that lockdown measures resulted in a notable decline in species occurrence records, particularly in developing countries. These regions, which rely heavily on international scientists and eco-tourists for biodiversity data, faced severe data gaps during the pandemic.

Study Overview

The research titled “Global Impact of the COVID-19 Lockdown on Biodiversity Data Collection” analysed biodiversity records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF). It compared data from the first global lockdown (March 15 to May 1, 2020) with the same period in 2019. The study included records from 129 countries and examined human mobility patterns using Google’s COVID-19 Community Mobility Reports.

Decline in Biodiversity Records

Findings indicated that developing countries experienced a steeper decline in biodiversity records than developed nations. Countries in Latin America, Africa, and parts of Asia, such as Ghana and Venezuela, recorded fewer species occurrences. In contrast, countries like Germany and Sweden, which allowed outdoor movement, saw an increase in biodiversity observations.

Impact of Lockdowns on Participation

The study brought into light a decline in public participation in biodiversity monitoring, particularly in developing nations. The eBird platform, a leading citizen science initiative, saw increased activity in developed countries like the United States and Canada but noted drop in participation from African and Latin American nations. This disparity emphasises the lower local engagement in biodiversity monitoring in developing regions.

International Observer Decline

The absence of international observers during lockdowns contributed to data loss, particularly in the Global South. Many biodiversity contributors, including researchers and birdwatchers, were unable to travel, leading to gaps in biodiversity records. This reliance on international researchers exposed vulnerabilities in global biodiversity monitoring systems.

Need for Community-Based Monitoring

The pandemic brought into light the critical need for robust, community-driven biodiversity monitoring programmes. The study advocates for investing in local biodiversity monitoring to ensure consistent data collection during crises. Encouraging the use of citizen science platforms in developing nations can increase local participation. Strengthening policies to integrate local monitoring into national conservation strategies is essential for sustainable biodiversity management.

Recommendations for Future Monitoring

The researchers recommend several strategies to address the identified disparities. These include investing in community-based monitoring initiatives, promoting citizen science platforms, and developing policies that empower local communities. Such measures will enhance biodiversity data collection and contribute to more resilient conservation efforts.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the role of citizen science in biodiversity conservation during the COVID-19 pandemic.
2. Discuss the impact of international travel restrictions on biodiversity research in developing countries.
3. What are the key challenges faced by developing nations in biodiversity monitoring? Critically analyse.
4. Discuss the importance of local community involvement in biodiversity conservation strategies. How can this be enhanced?

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the role of citizen science in biodiversity conservation during the COVID-19 pandemic.

1. Citizen science platforms like eBird and iNaturalist maintained biodiversity records during lockdowns in developed nations.
2. Increased local engagement in nature activities allowed citizens to contribute valuable data.
3. Developing countries saw a decline in citizen science participation, leading to data gaps.
4. Citizen science encourages community awareness and involvement in biodiversity issues.
5. Investment in technology and training can enhance citizen science efforts in underrepresented regions.

2. Discuss the impact of international travel restrictions on biodiversity research in developing countries.

1. International travel restrictions led to decline in biodiversity data collection from developing nations.
2. Many researchers and eco-tourists, key contributors to data, were unable to travel during lockdowns.
3. Developing countries experienced steeper declines in species occurrence records compared to developed nations.
4. Reliance on international observers exposed vulnerabilities in biodiversity monitoring systems.
5. Data gaps created by travel restrictions hindered conservation efforts and policy-making.

3. What are the key challenges faced by developing nations in biodiversity monitoring? Critically analyse.

1. Limited local participation in biodiversity monitoring due to lack of resources and awareness.
2. Dependence on international researchers for data collection creates vulnerabilities.
3. Insufficient infrastructure and technology to support effective biodiversity monitoring systems.
4. Political and economic instability can disrupt conservation efforts and data collection initiatives.
5. Inadequate integration of local knowledge and community involvement in monitoring strategies.

4. Discuss the importance of local community involvement in biodiversity conservation strategies. How can this be enhanced?

1. Local community involvement ensures that conservation strategies are culturally relevant and sustainable.
2. Engaged communities are more likely to take ownership of conservation efforts and protect local biodiversity.
3. Enhancing education and awareness can increase community participation in biodiversity initiatives.
4. Investment in community-based monitoring programs can provide consistent data collection.
5. Policies should promote collaboration between local communities and conservation organizations for effective outcomes.