New partnership will explore the importance of managing land-use

The University of Exeter has partnered with the National Trust in a bid to help protect the natural world. 

The joint iniative will aim to provide science-based research that will help to inform land use decision making.

The focus will be on planning and managing the inevitable transformation of landscapes with the aim to make sure that they work best for people, place, nature and future generations.

The researchers will explore how both organisations can respond and adapt to environmental and cultural change, while also supporting wildlife and improving wellbeing through nature.

The researchers will also collaborate with communities, with oppurtunities for cross-disciplinary research, knowledge exchange and engagement at an international level.

The collaboration will focus on three main themes: rethinking: how to reverse declines in nature and adapt to climate change; regeneration: managing changing multifunctional landscapes and exploring novel approaches and management techniques; and reconnection: engaging people in conservation.

Professor Rosie Hails, nature and science director, the National Trust, said: ‘We are delighted to be launching a new, national partnership with the University of Exeter which will build on our successful collaboration to date, support us to develop our research capability, and help us to address the challenges we face in caring for nature and culture through high-quality research.

‘Lockdown has shown the value of our natural spaces for people, this partnership will help shape how we look after the natural and cultural heritage of our countryside and coastlines to make sure that nature, beauty and history are for everyone.’

Sean Fielding, University of Exeter director of impact, innovation and business, added: ‘Together we hope to generate innovative new thinking to solve the huge challenges faced in conserving, protecting and engaging others in natural capital and landscape stewardship, cultural heritage, and ecological citizenship.

‘We can engage experts from across the whole University including natural and social sciences, the arts and humanities to complement the National Trust’s wealth of experience and skills.’

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