BU signs agreement with government centre to advance environmental work

BU has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Centre for Environment, Fisheries, and Aquaculture Science (Cefas) to support and research environmental areas of mutual interest.

The agreement provides a framework to discuss and investigate research areas in aquatic sciences, environmental management and ecosystem services to help shape policy and conservation efforts.

Cefas, an agency of Defra (the UK Government’s Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs), are experts in marine and freshwater science. Bournemouth University has expertise in protecting and preserving a sustainable environment, and the partnership will bring the strengths of both organisations together for public benefit.

Activities will include exchanges of relevant scientific and technical information, visits, training, and collaborative research and projects, including those that enhance the capabilities of both organisations. This includes making use of facilities and expertise, where appropriate, to train staff and to assist in protecting and monitoring the natural aquatic resources and their associated environments and services, providing consultation and advice to technical departments and any ancillary activities designed to strengthen links, share appropriate scientific and technical knowledge or other relevant information in relation to new or improved technologies and best practices.

Professor Robert Britton is a fish ecology expert at Bournemouth University. He said, “This partnership will allow us to lend our expertise to help preserve our environment and support conservation efforts to ensure that our marine and freshwater environments, and the life that call it home, remain protected. We’re delighted to be partnering with Cefas for the benefit of the environment and all who enjoy it.”

Professor Britton also leads the [email protected] research cluster, with more information on the BU website. Jonathan Gillson, Team Leader of Salmon & Freshwater Team, will give a lead to the partnership from Cefas.