Examples of Environment and Sustainability Research
As an interdisciplinary research institute, the ESI works on many projects that bring diverse perspectives together to shed light on some of the major challenges the planet is facing.
In looking for solutions to problems of environmental change, our researchers tackle an extensive range of topics: some solutions are technological, others might relate to land use, and sometimes they depend on a change in human behaviour. Most involve combinations of all three.
We combine multiple, in-depth local and regional studies to provide insights into how environmental growth can be achieved more broadly, and work in partnership with an array of stakeholders to further their strategic ambitions
in this regard and to deliver practical solutions for them.
The ESI links closely with other Institutes and Centres of Excellence across the University researching Environmental Intelligence. More information on the University's wider work can be found here.
BEE-STEWARD: A tool for supporting resilient pollinator populations
Understanding the decline of key pollinators, and trying to predict their distribution and survival in agricultural landscapes. Read more.
Lagas
Lagas is being developed through the Tevi, SWEEP and other projects to support environmental growth in Cornwall. A unique environmental intelligence platform, it brings together cutting-edge environmental research and stakeholder engagement through high resolution mapping and associated tools. Read more.
Basking shark satellite tracking
Tracking the movements of basking sharks to help conserve their populations and maintain healthy marine ecosystems. Read more.
Growing Communities Through Nature
Exploring how we can use nature-based options to reduce the impacts of climate change at a local level, by getting people involved with their local green spaces and encouraging community actions. Read more.
Caught in the act of protest
Creating an international, inter-university network of research teams to examine the dynamics of collective action and protest. Read more.
Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV)
Renewable Energy experts are developing a pioneering new technique that could accelerate the widespread introduction of net-zero energy buildings through the latest Building Integrated Photovoltaics. Read more.
The Ecolight Project
The University of Exeter’s Environment and Sustainability Institute (ESI) is conducting one of Europe’s leading research projects into the impact of artificial lighting on plants and invertebrates specifically and, more broadly, on the environment. Read more.
Sustainable Clothing
The clothing industry is the world’s second largest polluter. The ESI is bringing together researchers from across the region to examine the problems created by ‘fast fashion’ and find rounded, interdisciplinary solutions to make the industry more sustainable. Read more.