A network of funding organisations has been set up to promote pan-European research on biodiversity. Globally, biodiversity loss will interfere with water filtration, nutrient cycling and pollination of crops.
Biological communities and ecological systems are profoundly affected by human activities. In addition to cultural and ethical values, the diversity and abundance of species are crucial for various processes and ecological services that affect humanity in many respects. Biodiversity has become a major societal challenge.