Ecosystems, Global Change and Sustainability
Ecosystems are dynamic systems that respond to a wide range of natural and anthropogenic drivers. Human activities are affecting ecosystem structure and functioning with far reaching consequences for human society. The research under this theme embraces basic research into the processes that underpinning ecosystem structure and functioning but also applied research to improve natural resource management and assess its socio-economic impact, especially on rural communities. The assessment of impacts of environmental change and pollution on species and ecosystems and the sustainable management of natural resources (through agriculture, forestry and fisheries) are key research areas. The School draws on a unique breadth of expertise to enable a fully integrated approach to these challenges. Researchers in this theme communicate closely with environmental policy makers, managers and industrial partners to maximise the positive impact of their work.
Researchers within this theme seek to address the following key objectives by focusing on a series of specific questions.
1. Understand the processes underpining ecosystem structure and function.
2. Assess and predict the impacts of environmental change on species and ecosystems.
3. Provide a scientific basis for sustainable management of natural resources.
4. Assess the socio-economic impact of natural resource management on rural livelihoods and communities.
For further information please contact Dr. Jennifer McElwain