Seize the moment to shape conservation policy

The UK faces unprecedented environmental challenges and huge political change. That gives researchers an opportunity and a duty, says Hazel Norman.

The future of biodiversity and conservation in the UK is uncertain. On a global scale, climate change, consumption, competition for resources and a growing human population have a heavy impact on nature and wildlife. At the national level, we are experiencing major political and societal change, driven in part by Brexit but also by a shift in public attitudes toward environmental issues.

Decisions made in the next couple of years will influence how we use our environment for many generations to come. First of all, we need to ask who nature is really for and what role we need and want it to play in the country’s future. The answer will help policymakers set priorities and guide scientific research to underpin those decisions.