CA25163 - Advancing the integration of environmental DNA based approaches into policy frameworks (eDNA4Policy)

Biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation are accelerating, creating urgent demand for reliable, policy-ready monitoring tools. Environmental DNA (eDNA) enables non-invasive, high-resolution detection of species and communities from DNA traces in environmental samples. It offers transformative potential for biodiversity monitoring, invasive species management, pollution monitoring, and ecosystem health evaluation. Europe leads in eDNA research and innovation, but markets and policy integration are fragmented due to gaps in standardisation, data interoperability, and cross-sector communication. eDNA4Policy addresses this science–policy gap by linking leading European researchers, authorities, industry partners, and international stakeholders in an inclusive, transdisciplinary network. eDNA4Policy will:

1.) map implementation routes across European directives and international frameworks,
2.) co-develop new, policy-aligned eDNA-based indicators,
3.) outline a scalable pathway for deployment and analysis,
4.) propose a digital landscape enabling FAIR data integration into policy while respecting intellectual property rights,
5.) support method standardisation and Quality Assurance / Quality Control frameworks,
6.) co-develop implementation strategies with decision makers, and
7.) expand markets and opportunities for European businesses.

eDNA4Policy will engage European regions, particularly Inclusiveness Target Countries, and Young Researchers and Innovators through six thematic Working Groups, stakeholder dialogues, training activities, Short-Term Scientific Missions, and capacity-building. Outputs support the Water Framework Directive, Marine Strategy Framework Directive, Nature Restoration Regulation, Invasive Species Regulation, and consider aspects of One Health and the Global Biodiversity Framework. By aligning scientific readiness with legislative needs, eDNA4Policy positions Europe at the forefront of eDNA-based monitoring, strengthens technological sovereignty, and lays the foundation for a long-term, cross-sectoral European eDNA stakeholder network.