Integration of novel technology in pollinator monitoring

Pollinators are critical to Europe’s biodiversity, food security, and ecosystem resilience. Yet, their populations are declining due to habitat loss, climate change, and pesticide use. Under Article 10(2) of the Nature Restoration Regulation, Member States must improve pollinator diversity and reverse the decline of pollinator populations at the latest by 2030 and thereafter achieve an increasing trend of pollinator populations, measured at least every six years from 2030, until satisfactory levels are achieved. The MAMBO project (Modern Approaches to the Monitoring of Biodiversity) can potentially contribute to this goal through its development and demonstration of cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI) and insect camera traps, that can support how pollinators are monitored across Europe. This policy brief outlines MAMBO’s innovations, highlights emerging opportunities, and recommends actions for integrating these tools into EU PoMS.