ecosystemshighlights

ecosystemshighlights is a framework and platform designed to summarize and compare key attributes of ecosystems around the world. It gathers concise, standardized information on biodiversity, ecosystem services, threats, and restoration progress to support research, policy making, and public awareness.

The content includes indicators such as species richness, endemism, carbon storage, water regulation, pollination, habitat integrity, and resilience to disturbance. Entries draw from peer-reviewed studies, long-term monitoring programs, remote sensing data, and validated citizen science contributions. The platform emphasizes consistent metadata and transparent methodologies to enable reliable cross-site comparisons.

Scope covers terrestrial, freshwater, coastal, and marine ecosystems, as well as urban and managed landscapes. Entries are aligned to common classifications and timeframes, allowing users to track changes over time and across regions. The interface typically features concise summaries, data visualizations, and links to primary sources for deeper analysis.

Access and use are designed to be open where possible. Data and visuals are available through an online portal, with downloadable datasets and dashboards. An API supports integration with research tools, conservation planning software, and policy dashboards, enabling use in dashboards, reports, and decision-support workflows.

Governance is provided by a multidisciplinary board including researchers, conservation practitioners, and government representatives. Quality control relies on standardized indicators, documentation of data sources, and regular updates as new information becomes available.

Limitations include data gaps, uneven geographic coverage, and varying temporal resolutions. Users should consider local context and consult primary sources for detailed analyses. See also related topics in biodiversity indicators and ecosystem services.