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Marine environment

The science of Natural England: now and then

Image shows two geological mounds of tall craggy rocks standing on the edge of a grassy cliff. The sea can be seen in the distance. The area is Axmouth To Lyme Regis Under Cliffs Site of Special Scientific Interest

By Dr Tim Hill, Chief Scientist at Natural England Science, evidence and evaluation sit at the heart of Natural England. Our teams work across a range of ecological, earth, economic and social sciences. With a strong focus on collaboration with …

The pathway to seabird recovery in England

Posted by: and , Posted on: - Categories: Biodiversity, Marine environment, Natural England, Seabirds, Wildlife
Chesil Beach and The Fleet SPA. Little tern adult at nest with two chicks.

Dr Alex Banks – Principal Specialist, Ornithology & Nick Williams – Principal Adviser, Marine Strategy England is a special place for seabirds. Our cliffs, beaches, marshes and offshore islands provide nest sites for around 20 species, including charismatic and iconic …

Environmental Improvement Plan one year on: Driving Nature recovery on land and sea

Puffin, atlantic puffin, Scientific name: Fratercula arctica with a beak full of sand eels. Perched on a lichen covered rock. Blue sky background. Facing left. Horizontal

By Alan Law, Deputy Chief Executive, Natural England This time last year, Defra’s Secretary of State launched the Environmental Improvement Plan to an audience of nature conservation bodies and the media in the nature rich setting of Camley Street Natural …

Reflections from COP 28 – Nature recovery for a secure future

Tony Juniper, Chair of Natural England, with Angélica Mendes, of WWF Brazil

The COP28 climate summit has concluded in Dubai with an agreement headlining on the need for a global journey away from fossil fuels. Behind the high drama of the oil, coal and gas economy were discussions about other subjects, including …

Allonby Bay Coastal Connections Project: exploring and celebrating our coastal heritage

Image shows houses behind a grassy bank of the sea.

Our vision at Natural England, is of thriving nature for people and planet. Our aim is for everyone is able to enjoy nature’s benefits and act for the environment, wherever they live. We want to support people in recognising the …

Government takes a step forward for marine nature recovery

Posted by: , Posted on: - Categories: Marine environment, Marine Net Gain, Natural England

By Jonathan Burney, Director of Marine Strategy and Government Advice The Government have released their response to the public consultation on the principles of Marine Net Gain (MNG). This exciting, emerging area of marine policy offers opportunity to accelerate marine …

How many mussels in Morecambe Bay? Understanding the value of mudflats and sandflats for birds, humans, and the ecosystems we share

Posted by: and , Posted on: - Categories: Marine environment, Monitoring, Natural England

By Louise Whatley, Marine Ecology Specialist and Elizabeth Mitchell, Senior Advisor for Engagement and Impact  As summer sets in in earnest, millions of us will head to the coast. In between dropping our ice-creams on our feet and taking a …

Celebrating World Ocean Day 2023: Building Partnerships for Planet Ocean

World Ocean Day illustration banner

World Ocean Day is an annual event celebrated on 08 June that not only serves as a day of observance but also fosters collaboration and encourages year-round conservation action. This global celebration unites individuals and organisations from around the world, …

POSEIDON: Changing the game for offshore wind and nature

Posted by: , Posted on: - Categories: Biodiversity, Climate change, Marine environment
Collection of new seabed (benthic) data in the North Sea

By Alex Fawcett and Victoria Copley, Marine Strategic Solutions Principal Advisers Offshore wind development is a vitally important part of the UK government approach to tackling the climate crisis and addressing energy security. This priority sits alongside the urgent need …

Hot off the press: Natural England’s research to support offshore wind

Posted by: , Posted on: - Categories: Climate change, Marine environment, Science and evidence
Offshore wind turbine

By Mike Burke, Head of Programme – Sustainable Development Natural England has just published several research reports to inform and support the sustainable development of offshore windfarms, contributing to economic growth and energy security. This package of research will provide …