Mapping biocultural diversity: An integrative spatial approach to inform conservation and management decisions

Effective conservation and sustainable management require metrics that capture the coupled dynamics of biological and cultural systems. Quantifying and mapping this biocultural diversity remains difficult due to its multidimensional and context-dependent nature. This study introduces the Biocultural Index for Refugia Exploration (BIRE), an integrative spatial approach combining biological and socio-cultural variables to map biocultural diversity. Using publicly available datasets, BIRE applies a percentile-based scoring system to identify biocultural diversity hotspots at the municipal scale. Tested in two contrasting Spanish regions (Almería and Navarra), BIRE revealed distinct spatial patterns, with higher values representing hotspots in rural and mountainous municipalities and lower values (coldspots) in urbanized areas. The index proved robust, flexible, and replicable across diverse social-ecological contexts. BIRE offers a policy-relevant framework linking scientific evidence with decision-making processes. In doing so, BIRE can guide targeted interventions in sustainable management, conservation, and planning, supporting decision-makers in identifying and prioritizing key areas.