# BES-Net > network of networks promoting more effective management of biodiversity and ecosystems by enhancing dialogue, interaction and coordination between science, policy, and practice **Wikidata**: [Q107266254](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q107266254) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/bes-net ## Summary BES-Net (Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services Network) is a global network of networks operated by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), UNESCO, and the UNEP World Conservation Monitoring Centre that promotes more effective management of biodiversity and ecosystems by enhancing dialogue, interaction, and coordination between science, policy, and practice. Hosted by the Global Policy Centre on Resilient Ecosystems and Desertification, it serves as a platform for capacity building and knowledge sharing across the biodiversity and ecosystem services field, operating in English and French since its website was established in 1990. ## Key Facts - **Full Name:** Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services Network (BES-Net) - **Common Aliases:** BESNet - **Website:** https://www.besnet.world/ (operational since 1990) - **Operators:** United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), World Conservation Monitoring Centre (UNEP-WCMC), UNESCO - **Host Organization:** Global Policy Centre on Resilient Ecosystems and Desertification - **Funders:** Federal Ministry for the Environment, Climate Protection, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (Germany); Stockholm Resilience Centre (Sweden); Norwegian Environment Agency (Norway) - **Primary Fields:** Biodiversity, ecosystem services, capacity building - **Languages of Operation:** English, French - **Twitter Account:** @besnet_undp (created December 9, 2015) - **YouTube Channel:** "Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services Network (BES-Net)" — Channel ID: UC5sFhtHP562kEqPB3VQCVWA (started December 9, 2015) - **YouTube Statistics:** 14 videos, 29 playlists, 1,205 subscribers, 373,994 views (as of December 6, 2025) - **LinkedIn ID:** biodiversity-and-ecosystem-services-network-bes-net- - **Facebook:** besnet.world - **Wikidata Property:** - **Wikidata Description:** Network of networks promoting more effective management of biodiversity and ecosystems by enhancing dialogue, interaction and coordination between science, policy, and practice - **Instance Of:** Organization, network, website - **Sitelink Count:** 158 ## FAQs **What is the primary mission of BES-Net?** BES-Net functions as a "network of networks" that connects scientific research, policy development, and practical implementation to improve the management of biodiversity and ecosystem services globally. It facilitates dialogue and coordination among these three spheres to build capacity and advance conservation efforts. **Which United Nations agencies operate BES-Net?** BES-Net is jointly operated by three major organizations: the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the UNEP World Conservation Monitoring Centre (UNEP-WCMC), and UNESCO (the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization). These partners bring together development expertise, biodiversity monitoring data, and scientific and cultural authority. **Where is BES-Net hosted?** BES-Net is hosted by the Global Policy Centre on Resilient Ecosystems and Desertification, which provides institutional support and serves as the network's organizational home. **Who funds BES-Net?** The network receives funding from three primary sources: the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Climate Protection, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety of Germany, the Stockholm Resilience Centre in Sweden, and the Norwegian Environment Agency in Norway. **What languages does BES-Net operate in?** BES-Net conducts its work in both English and French, enabling participation from a broad range of countries in different regions. **What social media platforms is BES-Net active on?** BES-Net maintains a presence on multiple platforms: Twitter (@besnet_undp), Facebook (besnet.world), YouTube (channel "BES-Net"), and LinkedIn (biodiversity-and-ecosystem-services-network-bes-net-). Their YouTube channel has accumulated nearly 374,000 views since its launch in December 2015. ## Why It Matters BES-Net addresses a critical gap in global environmental governance: the disconnect between scientific research on biodiversity and ecosystem services, policy formulation by governments and international bodies, and on-the-ground implementation by practitioners and local communities. By serving as a "network of networks," BES-Net creates bridges between these traditionally siloed domains, enabling more coherent and effective approaches to biodiversity conservation and sustainable ecosystem management. The network's significance stems from its unique position within the UN system, bringing together three major organizations with complementary strengths—UNDP's development and implementation expertise, UNEP-WCMC's biodiversity data and monitoring capabilities, and UNESCO's scientific and educational authority. This tripartite operation allows BES-Net to convene diverse stakeholders, from researchers to policymakers to field practitioners, and facilitate the exchange of knowledge and best practices. For practitioners and policymakers in biodiversity-rich but often resource-constrained regions, BES-Net provides access to cutting-edge scientific knowledge and connects them with international networks and funding opportunities. The network's capacity-building activities help strengthen institutional and technical capabilities for implementing the Convention on Biological Diversity and related international frameworks. Its multi-language operation (English and French) further extends its reach to Francophone Africa and other regions where language barriers often limit access to global environmental networks. In an era of accelerating biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation, BES-Net's role in fostering science-policy-practice interfaces has become increasingly vital. The network contributes to building the institutional and human capacity needed to translate global conservation commitments into effective national and local action. ## Notable For - **Tripartite UN Operation:** One of the few environmental networks jointly operated by three major UN agencies (UNDP, UNESCO, UNEP-WCMC), combining development, scientific, and monitoring expertise under a single platform. - **Network of Networks Structure:** Distinctive in its approach of connecting existing networks and organizations rather than building from scratch, creating a meta-network that leverages existing infrastructure and relationships. - **Long-Standing Digital Presence:** Operating a website since 1990, making it one of the earliest digital platforms in the biodiversity and ecosystem services field. - **Multi-Stakeholder Funding Model:** Supported by government agencies from three different European countries (Germany, Sweden, Norway), demonstrating broad international political support for its mission. - **YouTube Engagement:** Accumulated over 373,000 views across 14 videos and 29 playlists, indicating substantial reach and engagement with educational content on biodiversity and ecosystem services. - **Global Policy Centre Hosting:** Affiliated with the Global Policy Centre on Resilient Ecosystems and Desertification, positioning it within a dedicated UN hub for addressing land degradation and ecosystem resilience. ## Body ### History and Establishment BES-Net traces its digital origins to 1990, when its website was first established, making it a pioneer in online environmental networking. Over the subsequent decades, the network evolved to incorporate new communication technologies and expand its reach beyond simple information dissemination to active facilitation of dialogue and capacity building. The network's development paralleled the growing international focus on biodiversity and ecosystem services, particularly following the adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity in 1992 and the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment in 2005. ### Organizational Structure and Governance BES-Net operates under a unique tripartite governance model, with three international organizations sharing operational responsibilities: **United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)** brings its extensive field presence in over 170 countries, providing BES-Net with connections to national governments, development agencies, and on-the-ground implementation partners. UNDP's expertise in capacity building and sustainable development helps ensure that BES-Net's activities translate into practical outcomes at the national level. **UNEP World Conservation Monitoring Centre (UNEP-WCMC)** contributes its world-leading capabilities in biodiversity data management, monitoring, and assessment. As the authoritative source for global biodiversity information, UNEP-WCMC ensures that the network's scientific content is based on the best available data and emerging research. **UNESCO** provides its mandate in science, education, and culture, connecting BES-Net with the organization's extensive network of member states, scientific institutions, and educational facilities worldwide. UNESCO's involvement strengthens the network's capacity to bridge scientific knowledge with policy and educational applications. The network is hosted by the Global Policy Centre on Resilient Ecosystems and Desertification, which serves as its institutional home and provides strategic direction. This centre focuses specifically on addressing the challenges of land degradation, desertification, and ecosystem resilience—issues closely aligned with BES-Net's mission. ### Funding and Financial Support BES-Net receives financial support from three government agencies, each bringing resources and perspectives from their respective national contexts: The **Federal Ministry for the Environment, Climate Protection, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety** (Germany) represents one of Europe's largest economies and a leader in environmental policy. Germany's funding reflects its strong commitment to international biodiversity conservation and its position as a major player in global environmental governance. The **Stockholm Resilience Centre** in Sweden contributes both funding and scientific expertise. The Centre is internationally recognized for its work on social-ecological systems and resilience thinking, bringing cutting-edge research perspectives to BES-Net's activities. The **Norwegian Environment Agency** represents Norway's substantial investment in international environmental conservation. Norway is known for its significant contributions to biodiversity funding through various multilateral mechanisms, and its support for BES-Net reflects this broader commitment. ### Fields of Work and Focus Areas BES-Net concentrates on three interconnected domains: **Biodiversity** encompasses the variety of life on Earth at all levels, from genes to ecosystems. BES-Net addresses biodiversity conservation, the drivers of biodiversity loss, and strategies for maintaining and restoring biodiversity in terrestrial, freshwater, and marine environments. **Ecosystem Services** refers to the benefits that humans derive from ecosystems, including provisioning services (food, water), regulating services (climate regulation, flood control), cultural services (recreation, spiritual values), and supporting services (nutrient cycling, soil formation). BES-Net promotes the integration of ecosystem services thinking into policy and practice. **Capacity Building** represents the network's approach to strengthening the abilities of individuals, institutions, and systems to effectively address biodiversity and ecosystem challenges. This includes technical training, knowledge transfer, institutional development, and supporting the implementation of international commitments. ### Digital Presence and Communication BES-Net maintains a comprehensive online presence designed to reach diverse audiences across different regions and language communities: **Website (https://www.besnet.world/)** serves as the central hub for information about the network, its activities, resources, and opportunities for engagement. The site has been operational since 1990, making it one of the longest-running digital platforms in the environmental field. **Twitter (@besnet_undp)** provides real-time updates on network activities, events, and relevant developments in the biodiversity and ecosystem services field. The account was established on December 9, 2015, and has been active in sharing news and engaging with the environmental community. **Facebook (besnet.world)** offers another channel for reaching broader public audiences, sharing visual content, and building community engagement around biodiversity issues. **YouTube Channel** features video content related to biodiversity and ecosystem services, including recordings of events, educational materials, and awareness-raising content. The channel, launched on December 9, 2015, has grown to include 14 videos organized into 29 playlists, attracting 1,205 subscribers and nearly 374,000 total views as of December 2025. **LinkedIn** provides a professional networking platform connecting individuals and organizations interested in biodiversity and ecosystem services, facilitating professional exchanges and career opportunities in the field. ### Language and Geographic Reach BES-Net operates in both English and French, reflecting the network's commitment to reaching audiences in different regions. English serves as the primary language for global environmental governance and scientific discourse, while French extends the network's reach to Francophone Africa, a region of significant biodiversity importance and active environmental policy engagement. This bilingual approach helps ensure that valuable knowledge and resources are accessible to practitioners and policymakers beyond traditional Anglophone networks. ### Relationship to Wikimedia Projects BES-Net appears in Wikidata (property ) with a sitelink count of 158, indicating extensive cross-referencing with Wikimedia projects. The network is also noted as being on the focus list of WikiProject PCC Wikidata Pilot/University of Washington, suggesting its relevance to academic and research applications within the Wikidata community. ### Impact and Influence The network's influence operates through several mechanisms: **Knowledge Synthesis and Dissemination:** BES-Net aggregates and communicates scientific findings, policy developments, and practical experiences from around the world, making complex information accessible to diverse audiences. **Network Building:** By connecting organizations and individuals working in related fields, BES-Net facilitates collaboration, prevents duplication of effort, and enables the exchange of lessons learned. **Capacity Development:** Through training, workshops, and technical assistance, BES-Net helps build the skills and institutional capabilities needed for effective biodiversity management. **Policy Influence:** By bridging science and policy, BES-Net helps ensure that policy decisions are informed by the best available scientific evidence and that scientific research addresses policy-relevant questions. **Resource Mobilization:** The network helps connect potential funders with promising initiatives and supports the development of fundable project proposals. ### Institutional Context BES-Net exists within a broader ecosystem of international environmental agreements, institutions, and networks. It supports implementation of the Convention on Biological Diversity and its Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety and Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit-sharing. The network also relates to other major environmental frameworks including the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (which addresses land degradation and ecosystem restoration) and the Paris Agreement (which recognizes the role of ecosystems in climate mitigation and adaptation). Within the UN system, BES-Net is part of broader efforts to integrate environment and development objectives, connecting with the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021-2030) and supporting the post-2020 global biodiversity framework. The network's positioning within the Global Policy Centre on Resilient Ecosystems and Desertification specifically links it to UN efforts to address land degradation, which affects billions of people worldwide and threatens ecosystem function and biodiversity. ## References 1. [Source](https://www.besnet.world/about) 2. [Source](https://www.besnet.world/) 3. YouTube API