Research Themes
The work of UK BRAG has addressed
a number of major cross-cutting themes, building upon the
recommendations of the Biodiversity Research Working Group (BRWG)
and responding to new, developing areas of research.
The threat of climate change to the UK’s biodiversity is
recognised, but impacts are understood only partially. While some
mitigation measures may be possible, there is a need to explore
options to enable adaptation to change.
There needs to be an improved understanding of the mechanisms
and processes that underpin ecosystem function, in order to more
fully comprehend the role that biodiversity may play in maintaining
such processes.
A better knowledge of genetic variation will help guide policy
and practical action for biodiversity conservation and restoration,
and has assumed a greater importance in the face of environmental
change.
Non-Native Species (NNS) may present a serious threat to the
UK’s biodiversity. It is important to understand their status and
trends, identify drivers and pressures, and initiate management and
legislative responses.
Social sciences and environmental economics have much to
contribute to the process of delivery for the UK BAP and
commitments at the European level. The need for true
interdisciplinary research is recognised and must be
facilitated.
Knowledge, best practice and tools need to be developed to
enable management for biodiversity at a range of spatial scales, to
address the wider landscape and integrate with sustainable
development objectives.
Reliable biodiversity information depends upon development of
robust approaches to biodiversity measurement, identifying
negative impacts and evaluating the success of the actions we
take.