Mission & Objectives
Collecting information on the geographical distribution, abundance and structure of selected wildlife species populations relevant for livestock and human health
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Enhancing European Capacity for
Wildlife Pathogen Risk Assessment
Accurate risk assessment of pathogens with implications for both human and livestock health necessitates comprehensive data on the presence and abundance of wild species, which often serve as reservoirs for these pathogens.
In Europe, various countries and organizations diligently collect spatial data on the distribution and abundance of wildlife. However, disparities exist in the methodologies employed, the types of data acquired, and the accessibility of repositories, making cross-comparison challenging.
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA)
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), through its support of ENETWILD, is championing a project aimed at aggregating comparable data at a pan-European scale. The primary goal is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of disease risks shared among wildlife, livestock, and humans. Such data not only serve critical roles in risk assessment but are also indispensable for effective conservation and wildlife management initiatives.
ENETWILD seeks to enhance European capabilities in monitoring wildlife populations by developing standardized protocols for data collection, validation, and ultimately establishing a centralized data repository. The overarching objective is to streamline the diverse datasets currently available, fostering a more coherent and collaborative approach to wildlife disease monitoring.
Over the coming years, ENETWILD will concentrate its efforts on specific objectives pertaining to wild boar populations, with the ultimate aim of contributing to a more robust and unified system for wildlife pathogen risk assessment throughout Europe.
DATA HARMONIZATION​
A Long-Term Endeavor with ENETWILD
Leading the Way
Achieving harmony in data collection across Europe is an ambitious, long-term project, and ENETWILD stands as the inaugural step in this pivotal journey. The overarching aim is to standardize the European data framework concerning specific species and topics, notably distribution and abundance, creating an environment conducive to aggregating comprehensive datasets from across the continent.
ENETWILD’s role is pivotal in establishing a foundation for harmonization.
By developing and implementing standardized protocols for data collection, validation, and storage, the project sets the stage for a unified approach to data management in the realm of wildlife disease monitoring.
This harmonization initiative is not merely a technical undertaking; it represents a strategic move towards fostering collaboration among European countries. The establishment of a standardized European data framework will not only facilitate the aggregation of diverse datasets but will also pave the way for more efficient cross-border collaboration in the critical domain of wildlife pathogen risk assessment.
As we embark on this journey, ENETWILD serves as a beacon, guiding us towards a future where harmonized data collection becomes the norm, laying the groundwork for a comprehensive understanding of wildlife populations and their role in the intricate web of pathogen dynamics.
