Our research topics

Our research focuses on the major challenges facing our environment, including the declining health of our oceans and rivers, the impacts of climate change and the loss of wildlife and habitats. We operate at a range of scales from global to local and in partnership with a large network of research organisations.

OUR RESEARCH TOPICS

NATURE IN CITIES

We’re working with city councils, businesses and communities to create greener, healthier and safer cities.

Our climate-proof cities programme operates across the globe to improve climate resilience using nature-based solutions.

Naturehood is an exciting, innovative engagement and science programme that aims to reconnect people with the wildlife on their doorstep and increase biodiversity in our towns and cities

Freshwater pollution

FreshWater Watch is our global freshwater citizen science tool, which has been used in countless projects to study and address nutrient pollution. We keep developing our tool and are expanding our research programme.

We have recently launched Plastic Rivers, a programme to better understand and tackle plastic pollution before it reaches the ocean.

Advancing citizen science

We are continually innovating to make our science more impactful and to stay at the forefront of the global citizen science movement. We lead and contribute to a range of projects that advance the field of citizen science by researching its impact on society, sharing expertise and developing new technological tools.

Sustainable Agriculture

We’re studying the environmental impact of farming practices and agricultural supply chains. Our aim is to drive environmentally sustainable practices that also ensure food security for local people.

Coasts

We’re filling knowledge gaps on key marine species and the effects of climate change. The data we collect will help protect our oceans for future generations to enjoy. Through the CoCoast partnership, we’ve helped generate over 240,000 data points to be given directly to decision-makers and managers of Marine Conservation Zones.

Advancing citizen science practice

Find out more about citizen science

Our research topics