Database to map out eco-projects

Academics at York University have conducted a nationwide survey to bring together details online for the first time of projects which map out some of the most important benefits that nature can bring.

The Ecosystem Service Mapping Gateway provides information about projects and activities underway across the country to study the ways in which the environment provides natural services such as regulating climate, maintaining healthy soils and reducing pollution. Organisations including local authorities, wildlife trusts, universities and community groups along with about 50 projects covering topics such as flood control, wild species diversity and pollination are listed on the gateway, which has been funded by Natural England.

Dr Zoe Austin, research fellow at the university’s Environment Department, said: “The database brings together information on mapping initiatives into a single, searchable site. This will allow people working on similar projects to see where there might be opportunities for collaboration and information sharing.

“The information will also contribute to national and local environmental planning issues helping to inform decisions about how our landscapes should be used and developed.”

The database has been developed as part of the university’s Biodiversity and Ecosystem Service Sustainability Directorate, a six-year research project funded by the Natural Environment Research Council. Further projects and more detailed case studies will be added to the Ecosystem Mapping Gateway over the next few months. The database is available at http://www.nerc-bess.net/index.php/bess-news/114-new-ecosystem-service-mapping-gateway.

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