Understanding and monitoring pollinator diversity is essential to addressing the ongoing decline of insect populations across Europe. The EU-funded EPIC-Bee project is strengthening the capacity of experts to identify pollinator species accurately, bridging the gap between field observation and taxonomic expertise.

Through dedicated training activities and knowledge exchange, the project aims to develop a critical mass of para-taxonomic experts capable of identifying bee species across all EU Member States. Since many pollinators cannot be reliably identified in the field, EPIC-Bee is building the necessary capacity for both field and laboratory work to ensure robust, standardised data collection and interpretation.

EPIC-Bee contributes directly to the EU Pollinator Monitoring Scheme (EU-PoMS) and the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 by developing harmonised methods, training resources and collaborative networks that support national and European initiatives tackling pollinator decline.

With a focus on biodiversity monitoring and skills development, EPIC-Bee seeks to:

• Build capacity among researchers, practitioners and citizen scientists for accurate pollinator identification and monitoring.
• Develop and implement coordinated training programmes that combine field and laboratory techniques.
• Strengthen collaboration and knowledge sharing between institutions, experts and monitoring networks across Europe.
• Support the long-term sustainability of pollinator monitoring efforts as part of the EU’s broader commitment to biodiversity conservation and ecosystem resilience.