JNCC is delighted that Dave Stone, our Chief Scientist, has been recognised on the ENDS Report Power List 2026, as a public sector leader.
The ENDS Power List names the 100 UK environmental professionals who have made the greatest impact over the past two years – as nominated by their colleagues, clients and competitors. The list is intended to be a celebration of the vast amount of talent that exists in the environmental profession and as an opportunity to shine a light on the work of those delivering positive change.
Dave’s leadership has greatly strengthened the role of science within JNCC – improving our impact and delivering our “Together for Nature” Strategy.
As co-Chair of the Chief Scientists’ Group, he led efforts to make this network of senior scientific leaders from UK’s Statutory Nature Conservation Bodies more strategic and impactful.
Trained as a plant ecologist, Dave is respected as an interdisciplinary environmental scientist for over 30 years of public sector experience at the science:policy:delivery interface. He is trusted at the most senior levels of government to advise on the evidence of biodiversity loss to national security, economic prosperity and societal wellbeing, and serves as an expert advisor to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).
Dave is deeply committed to building stronger links between JNCC and academia, and a supportive leader: mentoring colleagues within and beyond JNCC. He highlights the rewards of public sector work to schoolchildren who might not otherwise consider STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) careers.
JNCC Chair, Dr David Cooper, said: "I warmly welcome this recognition of Dave in this year’s ENDS Power List. As JNCC’s Chief Scientist, he brings strong scientific leadership to our work and to Committee discussions, ensuring that robust evidence underpins decision-making at the highest levels. His role as Co-Chair of the Chief Scientists’ Group, a key sub-committee of the Joint Committee, further strengthens the strategic impact of our work across the UK’s scientific community. This recognition reflects his outstanding contribution to JNCC and the wider environmental community.”
On hearing the news, Dave said: "I am humbled. Addressing the biodiversity crisis needs decision-makers to have the best available interdisciplinary evidence. This recognition is acknowledgment of the robust science produced by all my colleagues at JNCC to make to make a positive difference for nature and people."
To find out more about the 2026 Power List, visit ENDS Report Power List 2026 (note access may require sign in).
Congratulations Dave!
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