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Project title

Sectoral IMpacts on Sectoral Impacts on Biodiversity and ecoSYStem services (SIMBIOSYS)

Primary Funding Agency

Environmental Protection Agency

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

University of Dublin, Trinity College (TCD)

Lead Applicant

Jane Stout

Project Abstract

Biodiversity and associated ecosystem services are fundamental to humanity but are threatened by human activity in a range of sectors. This project will quantify impacts of key sectoral activities (in particular: cultivation of bioenergy crops, road landscaping and aquaculture) on genetic, species and landscape biodiversity and the ecosystem services they provides, including pollination, biological pest control, carbon sequestration and resistance to alien species invasion. In addition, we will test methods for mitigating impacts, carry out in-depth strategic reviews in order to inform national policy decisions, and make recommendations for future strategic research and management. By combining the expertise of 11 researchers from 6 research institutions, training 5 PhD students, employing 3 post-doctoral researchers and a graduate research assistant, this project will greatly enhance Ireland?s capacity for integrated biodiversity research at national and international levels. This project will deliver 5 PhD theses, at least 20 peer-reviewed publications in high quality international journals, several presentations at national and international conferences, publicity materials (including a website) and both technical and non-technical reports. In addition, this project will close the gap between researchers and policymakers in order to inform environmental policy.

Grant Approved

�1,610,717.78

Research Hub

Natural Environment

Research Theme

Sectoral Impacts on Biodiversity

Start Date

02/04/2008

Initial Projected Completion Date

02/10/2012