The strategic objective of GEM-CON-BIO was to explore the interactions between governance modes and sustainable development objectives in view of identifying what governance processes and institutions can best contribute to the conservation of biodiversity.

To achieve its objective, GEM-CON-BIO investigated types and modes of governance that are related to biodiversity conservation and sustainable development, identified the critical characteristics and threshold factors that exist in the environment of an ecosystem management authority (environmental, social and economic factors), as well as who controls them, and conducted research on a range of thematic and case studies, with particular emphasis on innovative and market-based approaches to govern the use of ecosystems and individual species. Lessons were drawn from community and private sector experiences, from region-specific practices and conditions and from efforts to link ecosystems in order to achieve a broad management and governance level (regional, national and global). Co-management approaches, currently flourishing all over the world, was an important focus of discussion.

Research drew conclusions on the strengths, weaknesses and impact of governance structures in each case, and assessed the transferability of best practices to wider contexts. A participatory process through a science-policy interface lead to the development of a set of policy guidelines applicable at different levels of government and in a variety of biodiversity contexts.

Results were disseminated to those involved in the formulation, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of policies - at the European, national, regional and local level, involving public authorities, legislators and citizens and their organisations.

Coordinating Organisation: Project Manager: Deputy Project Manager: Dissemination Manager: EC Project Officers:

Aristotle University of Thessaloniki Dr. Basil Manos Dr. Jason Papathanasiou Mr. Stratos Arampatzis Ms Alessia Bursi, Mr Marc Goffart