Natural history collections worldwide house roughly 2.5 to 3 billion specimens. Currently, less than 40% of the GBIF-mobilised primary biodiversity data records are based on specimens.

To speed up progress in discovery, digitization and mobilisation of natural history collections data, GBIF has initiated a ‘Global Strategy and Action Plan for Mobilisation of Natural History Collections Data’ and has developed a Training Manual on Digitisation of Natural History Collections Data. Also, GBIF’s Seed Money Awards scheme supports digitization and quality enhancement projects focusing on natural history collections.

GBIF, through its Participants, also hosts workshops and training events aiming at building capacity in digitising and mobilising natural history collections data.