NOC scientists contribute transformative insights to collaborative research programme

The National Oceanography Centre (NOC) continues to lead the way in collaborative research. 

Research led by NOC scientists features prominently in the publication of the Sustainable Management of UK Marine Resources (SMMR)’s final report. 

The programme, which ran from 2021 to 2025, has delivered transformative insights into how the UK can better value, manage, and protect its marine resources. Through cross-sector collaboration, innovative tools, and inclusive knowledge systems, SMMR helped to reshape how the UK values, manages and protects it marine resource. 

Two NOC-led projects feature in the final report:

• Co-Benefit Solutions for Resilient Coast (Co-opt) 
  The UK’s coasts provide essential ecosystem services and support the livelihoods of millions, but also pose a risk to society due to the increasing threat of coastal flooding and erosion. The Co-opt project sought to build a better common understanding of coastal systems, working across disciplines, sectors and communities.
• Restoration of Seagrass for Ocean Wealth (ReSOW) 
  The ReSOW project mapped habitats and explored the cultural and ecological value of seagrass, leading to the development of the UK’s first National Seagrass Ocean Accounts Framework. 
  Seagrass is a vital marine ecosystem that underpins coastal biodiversity, improves water quality, and plays a key role in mitigating climate change. Despite its importance, seagrass has suffered dramatic declines since the 19th century, with losses reaching up to 95% in some regions.

Dr Claire Evans, a marine biogeochemist at NOC, was the lead researcher on the ReSOW project. She said: “Our objective was to establish a practical pathway for restoring these habitats and we have gone some way to achieving that. This research has significantly enhanced both the scientific understanding and the real-world application of seagrass restoration strategies.” 

These SMMR studies highlight how interdisciplinary research can deliver practical solutions to complex marine challenges, aligning with the UK’s commitment to sustainable ocean governance. 

NOC’s Dr Laurent Amoudry was the principal investigator for the Co-opt project. He added: “Our work has already made a significant impact on local coastal management strategies. While there is more to do, we are providing decision-makers with solid evidence to guide the development of coastal schemes that better support our coasts and coastal communities.” 

Read the full report here: https://www.smmr.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/SMMR-FINAL-REPORT_VF8_DIGITAL.pdf