Case studies - NERC science meeting business needs
NERC-funded science is benefitting a wide variety of businesses, often as a direct result of collaborations between a business and NERC researchers. The case studies below provide examples of such collaboration and the outcomes for business.
All 'NERC science meeting business needs' case studies in one document (1MB)
Transforming the insurance industry
A 5% reduction in average insured losses from storms alone would save the insurance industry up to £130m a year. NERC's catastrophe weather modelling is being used in reinsurance models to prevent the unexpected accumulation of risk. more about transforming the insurance industry
Partners: Willis Research Network, Reading University
Marine renewables - commercial and environmental success
NERC-funded researchers proved the commercial viability of new tidal energy technology by demonstrating the sustainability of SeaGen in Strangford Lough. The turbine is now licensed to operate 24 hours a day. more about marine renewables' commercial and environmental success
Partners: Marine Current Turbines (SeaGen), regulators, Sea Mammal Research Unit
Protecting UK infrastructure from space weather
NERC provides daily short and long-term forecasts of space weather and solar activity, so action can be taken to protect infrastructure and the millions of pounds-worth of satellites on which our complex society depends. more about protecting UK infrastructure from space weather
Partners: National Grid, satellite operators, British Geological Survey, British Antarctic Survey
Green pesticide
Researchers identified the potential of a fungus as a 'green' pesticide that could save millions of pounds in damaged crops and prevent environmental damage. It has been licensed and is being sold by a biotechnology firm. more about green pesticide
Partners: Novozymes BioAg, Fargro, Swansea University
Cloud research highlights threat to aircraft fuel systems
Research on cloud formation led scientists to help aircraft engineers understand how droplets of 'supercooled' water in jet fuel can cause ice to form in aircraft engines. Though rare, ice can cause engine failure. Knowledge from this research provided Airbus Operations with new insights and research for application to aviation safety. more about how cloud research highlights threat to aircraft fuel systems
Partners: Airbus, Asymptote Ltd, Leeds University
Further examples of how NERC science has been used by business and policymakers can be found in a series of economic valuation reports and policy specific case studies.
Our Science Impacts Database summaries, which pull together brief examples of how our science has been used in specific business and policy areas, may also be of interest.