Identifying species is vital for measuring and preserving biodiversity, especially as habitats undergo rapid change. Accessible identification keys make it possible for amateur nature enthusiasts and school students to get involved in 'Citizen Science' by surveying species in their local area.

The EU recognises the role that interactive identification keys can play in generating knowledge and understanding our environment and is therefore funding KeyToNature though the EC Content Plus funding programme.

KeyToNature brings together 14 partners from 11 EU countries, including leading centres in biology, education and information technology. The Natural History Museum is the UK partner.

The project includes associate members, who share similar aims and collaborate with project partners. In the UK OPAL, the Open Air Laboratory Network has joined as an associate member and is promoting a KeyToNature key as part of a nationwide Lichen survey.

Keys will be made available throughout Europe on a variety of platforms, including laptops and mobile phones. They will be free to use for schools and universities.

You can get involved by helping us to test new keys or joining your organisation as an associate member.