GEM-CON-BIO started on February 1, 2006, and covered a period of 27 months. The project's work structure incorporates eight (8) workpackages:

• Workpackage 1, Project management, coordinates the GEM-CON-BIO consortium for the successful implementation of the project. This workpackage includes the coordination and quality control of the undertaken work.
• Workpackage 2, Identification of governance types, conducts research on the governance types that are applied in relation to the conservation of biodiversity and sustainable development.
• Workpackage 3, Identification of ecosystem management characteristics, analyses the different characteristics that exist in the environment of an ecosystem management authority and structure, including environmental, social, and economic factors.
• Workpackage 4, Case studies, identifies a set of representative case studies to analyse the relations between governance modes and processes and ecosystem characteristics, also assessing the success of governance practices in terms of sustainable development. WP4 is mainly concerned with particularly innovative or successful structures, while account is also taken of factors that have led to failure.
• Workpackage 5, Synthesis and matrix. This material is structured and prepared in form of a matrix and a report linking governance types, management characteristics, and conservation results. The report also contains conclusions on the strengths, weaknesses and impact the governance structures had in each case.
• Workpackage 6, Policy guidelines, develops practical guidelines for the implementation of the best governance practices. A science - policy interface and workshop guide the process and identify similarities and differences in the various cases in order to identify the examples of best practice and develop appropriate policy guidelines.
• Workpackage 7, Awareness & dissemination, includes the development and operation of a project knowledge portal on the internet and the undertaking of off-line dissemination activities, including the preparation of dissemination material.
• Workpackage 8, Assessment & Evaluation, provides a continuous monitoring and assessment of the GEM-CON-BIO research results and policy guidelines. Assessment is both internal and external, utilising recognised experts in the field of biodiversity conservation, as well as governance experts and policy makers.