The UK Network of Environmental Economists and the Natural Capital Initiative recently hosted a joint seminar to discuss changing policy priorities and uncertainty post-Brexit. Chaired by Joan Walley, Chair of the Aldersgate Group, participants “included economists, environmental scientists and others working for private companies, public agencies and NGOs covering a wide variety of sectors including water, agriculture and insurance.

The UK has a proud tradition of evidence based policy making, including for the environment. While there has never been a time evidence influenced all decisions, the pressure on this tradition has been rapidly increasing. Changing policy priorities and the role of public sector in and alongside the markets, and cuts to research budgets cause this pressure. Brexit brings added uncertainty.

We – the communities the UKNEE and the NCI represent – will be stronger if we produce policy options, not only evidence; if we cooperate and if we speak out.” The link takes you to the seminar report and ideas for further actions and events.

Amongst the plethora of Brexit-themed events is an Environment After Brexit conference at Bournemouth University on 11 April.