In order to ensure the quality of the BioVal transdisciplinary research process and knowledge integration in the best possible way, the ZTG accompanies the collabora-tive project with a formative evaluation. In the formative evaluation, the quality of the participation processes and knowledge integration (mutual learning, knowledge transfer) is examined, as the quality of these processes influences the medium and long-term effectiveness of BioVal. Characteristic for the formative evaluation is that it starts with the beginning of the project and is understood as part of the cyclical processes of joint learning through experimentation, reflection and improvement. The joint reflection on processes, (interim) results as well as hindering and facilitat-ing factors for the successful implementation of the solution approaches is a central element to ensure a forward-looking approach to risks and the practical relevance of the developed solution approaches.

The formative evaluation addresses the following research questions: Which meth-ods prove to be suitable for inter- and transdisciplinary integration? What influence does the transdisciplinary approach have on the handling of risks in the living labs? Which methods and approaches used in the project are relevant to impact? What mechanisms of knowledge utilisation can be observed in the biodiversity working group? Which procedures of knowledge transfer are suitable for this? The evaluation basis is formed by success criteria and impact expectations to be worked out together with the practical actors. The structural integration of the evaluation activities is based on the integration in the network, the activities of the living labs and the meetings of the biodiversity working group.