Natural Heritage Research and Development

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  Research:

Is the scientific backbone of Natural Heritage. It underpins the work of all the units within Natural Heritage, whether this research is carried out by our own staff, academic institutions or by other means.

Development:

Is the glue which holds the scientific information base together. It involves the use and management of the data we gather.

We define research and development as:

"Knowledge and data acquisition, analysis and development, underpinning biodiversity and earth science action and access to and enjoyment of the countryside".

It should be stressed that research and development activity in Natural Heritage is not restricted to that which we procure. A large amount of research and development is carried out by in-house staff.

For more information about the future direction of our research please go to Natural Heritage Research and Development Strategy (.PDF466Kb) or alternately follow the publications tab above and search for research and development.

The information gathered through research is used on a daily basis by Natural Heritage staff to:

• Inform the delivery of the Northern Ireland Biodiversity Strategy.
• Make decisions on the impact of development on nature conservation, landscape and countryside matters.
• Inform the development of environmental policy.
• Formally protect or designate sites.
• Inform the monitoring and management of designated sites.
• Monitor changes in the natural environment as a whole.
• Facilitate sustainable use and enjoyment of the countryside.