Research (2017-2023)

To develop metrics for assessing Biodiversity Recovery that are applicable at multiple scales from individual businesses to regional and national levels. An effective framework to downscale progress towards global commitments on biodiversity recovery to national and sectoral scales is urgently needed to close the gaps between commitments, implementation and impact. This work will also provide new insights into the bioeconomy as it will explore new potential land uses for wetland areas to encourage more sustainable land management practices.

Deliver a data driven platform to assess the success of peatland rehabilitation on ecological health (biodiversity recovery), water quality and climate mitigation potential and to identify the role that degraded peatlands can play in the bioeconomy in Ireland. Researching and publishing on peatland rehabilitation approaches, compiling evidence for success and identifying alternative land uses within the Irish bioeconomy. Links to indirect implications for other industries (e.g. water treatment). We will provide a platform for wider community groups and industrial partners to protect biodiversity, offset emissions find new/novel ways to sequester carbon in these ecosystems and contribute to enhanced water management and quality at catchment scales.

To determine the effectiveness of pollinator restoration measures in Irish agricultural landscapes, both for pollinators and for other biodiversity and ecosystem services. To use a living labs approach to ensure effective stakeholder engagement and transfer of knowledge. To develop rapid assessment evaluations to measure pollinator restoration, and develop transferable approaches for different actors at a range of scales

Over-arching aim: To engage in highly impactful research bringing together experts and researchers in the natural sciences, agriculture and business, to investigate how best to design a funding structure that: 1) provides the most efficient means for corporates to fund nature-positive action on farms. 2) provides the funding needed for farmers to undertake nature-positive actions on their farms. 3) leads to the most ecologically advantageous outcomes (up-scaling from the successful Burren Programme to improve farmland biodiversity in Ireland).

To address challenges of financing biodiversity recovery in an integrated multi-disciplinary way, using Farming for Nature as a model system to develop and test innovative approaches, including financial investment, payment for ecosystem services, natural capital accounting and stakeholder engagement.