Why it matters

The interests of government, society and the environment are inextricably linked. Each citizen depends on having a productive, healthy and resilient environment that contributes to the UK’s prosperity and wellbeing. From tackling challenges such as climate change, to seizing the opportunities offered by clean growth, environmental science lies at the heart of many key government actions and initiatives, such as the Industrial, Clean Growth and Clean Air Strategies and the 25-year Environment Plan.

What we did

NERC science has underpinned government policies for over 50 years and enabled the UK to take the global lead on a whole range of critical issues. We work hand in hand with government, business and wider society to identify sustainable new ways of boosting prosperity and escaping poverty, and to produce practical solutions to real-world challenges with an environmental dimension. Our funding for world-leading environmental science and scientists, combined with our support for long-term, large-scale research, provides government with robust, independent evidence and advice from experts that not only underpins policies and services but also enables the UK to meet its international commitments. We also ensure government rapid access to research infrastructure and expert advice during emergencies.

Below, we present a selection of impacts and benefits that our investment in cutting-edge environmental science has delivered across the remit of government.

NERC solutions delivered across the public sector benefit UK economy and society