Policies on nature conservation require quantitative data on the extent of habitats and their degree of fragmentation. Information about the spatial distribution of habitats and landscapes in Europe is largely lacking. Sander Mücher's research showed that, in combination with additional environmental data sets, it is now possible to quantitatively model the spatial extent of widespread habitats and landscapes. Satellite imagery in combination with environmental data sets provide the necessary information. However, it is difficult to detect from space gradual and small changes.
Remote sensing results in a synoptic overview, but needs field surveys of relatively small areas for validation and calibration. The developed methodologies for field surveying and spatial modelling thus are complementary and reinforce each other effectively. They can be be implemented in other parts of the world with relative ease.