Environmental science themes
At the heart of NERC's science strategy (published in November 2007) are plans to deliver the science needed to provide solutions to the global environmental challenges that the world is facing today and will face in the future.
NERC has identified seven themes under which this science will be delivered.
We have appointed theme leaders who are developing action plans which will help us to meet those responsibilities.
Theme leaders are experts in their chosen theme and their ability to lead and influence strategic partnerships will help us to respond more effectively to the challenges of environmental change. Each theme leader is consulting with the research community and stakeholders on their action plan. This may take the form of web consultations, focus groups or town meetings, depending on the needs of each theme.
NERC's governing Council approved the first phase of the theme action plans in July 2008, the second phase in November 2009, and the third phase in May 2011.
Developing the fourth phase of theme action plans
Three of NERC's theme leaders will be leaving before the completion of the next phase of theme action plans (TAPs). The fourth phase of TAPs is due to be agreed by NERC Council in May 2013, and theme leaders have already made considerable progress in developing their plans.
NERC will cover the further development of these three TAPs until May 2013 via the establishment of three ad hoc groups. The ad hoc groups will work closely with the relevant theme leaders until their departure. The membership of the ad hoc groups is below.
Sustainable use of natural resources
(Theme leader - Professor Louise Heathwaite)
- Professor Richard Bardgett, Lancaster University
- Professor Jim Skea, Imperial College
- Professor Bridget Emmett, Centre for Ecology & Hydrology
Environment, pollution & human health
(Theme leader - Professor Roy Harrison)
- Professor David Fowler, Centre for Ecology & Hydrology
- Professor Stephen Holgate, University of Southampton
- Professor David Kay, Aberystwyth University
Earth system science
(Theme leader - Professor Tim Jickells)
- Professor Harry Elderfield, University of Cambridge
- Professor Mike Stephenson, British Geological Survey
- Dr Pamela Kempton, NERC Swindon Office
The following pages contain details about each theme leader, the theme they are championing and its action plan.