Comprehension of local biodiversity is an essential first step to nature conservation in quarries

In order to implement the slogan "Think globally, act locally!" in the context of environmental challenges, it is important to know local biodiversity. This is the first step, a kind of "zero level," from which we can develop strategies for managing biodiversity and natural resources.

The aim of the project is to create the Atlas – Identification guide of terrestrial insects from the Shakh-Tau quarry, Russia.

This user-friendly identification keys with illustrations will cover most insects of quarry, especially keystone, flagship and endangered species. There will be instructions to answer the questions: what is this insect? What is its scientific name? How to distinguish between similar species? Such simplified approach will make it possible to any amateur and interested person to recognize insects of the quarry and surroundings. This will increase the involvement of general public in the problems of nature conservation. This Atlas will facilitate local biodiversity surveys, thus greatly improve the knowledge of biodiversity values present and serve as a basis for improved project design of both new quarries and planned rehabilitation.

From interest to local biodiversity to its comprehension and protection – exactly this algorithm we plan to test and later disseminate upon other quarries around the world.