The EXPBIO project officially commenced with an online kickoff meeting on 11 January, engaging nearly 20 participants from various partner organisations. This event set the stage for the project’s ambitious goal to enhance plant biodiversity across the North Sea Region (NSR).
EXPBIO is structured around four main work packages (WPs), each designed to address specific aspects of biodiversity restoration and awareness. WP1 focuses on developing a strategic roadmap after analysing stakeholder needs, aiming to guide future actions across the NSR. WP2 is dedicated to identifying and testing restoration practices to strengthen soil seed banks and biodiversity, incorporating pilot demonstrations and stakeholder engagement. WP3 aims to increase biodiversity restoration capacity by designing, implementing, and evaluating native seed mixes adaptable to the NSR's diverse environmental conditions. Lastly, WP4 seeks to develop and execute a transnational action plan to raise awareness of native plants and local biodiversity, involving educational content, citizen science methodologies, and targeted campaigns to reduce plant blindness.
All partners have expressed a strong commitment to the project's success, looking forward to the next major gathering in Gothenburg in March to further refine and present their contributions.
About the image
Daisies, scientifically known as Leucanthemum vulgare, are common perennial plants found in temperate regions worldwide. Characterized by white petals surrounding a yellow disc center, they are easily recognizable and widely found in meadows, gardens, and grasslands. Daisies typically grow between 10 to 50 cm in height and bloom from early summer to autumn. These plants prefer full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade and are known for their adaptability to various soil types.
Daisies play a significant role in ecosystems by attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies, contributing to the pollination of plants. In addition to their ecological importance, daisies have been used in traditional medicine for their anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. They are also edible, with leaves that can be added to salads. Overall, daisies are not only aesthetically pleasing but also beneficial for biodiversity and have various practical uses.