Behind the lens
‘We are using diverse expertise and evidence-based strategy to reach new audiences and influence decision makers to take action. Together, we can unleash impact.’
Accelerated action is needed to address climate change and nature loss. In 2024, the world reached the threshold of +1.5˚C of warming, and the business sector is retreating from its climate and biodiversity commitments. The University of Exeter’s Nature and Climate Impact Team, led by Professor Gail Whiteman, will use innovative communication techniques and cutting-edge science to create effective impact pathways and push for systemic change.
During New York Climate Week in 2024, Exeter honorary graduates (DSc, 2022) André and Rosalie Hoffmann (BA Geography, 1982) generously announced a £3.3 million gift to ensure that Exeter’s interdisciplinary research on climate risks and solutions was translated into real-world impact. The Hoffmans said: “We believe that the combination of academic excellence and collaborative action will drive the practical, systemic changes needed to protect our planet for future generations. We trust that this initiative will inspire business leaders and policymakers to take decisive action for the wellbeing of nature and humanity.”
Leading this team is Professor Gail Whiteman, the inaugural Hoffmann Impact Professor for Accelerating Action on Nature and Climate. As well as her work as a Professor of Sustainability at Exeter, Gail is also the founder of Arctic Basecamp and Climate Basecamp, registered not-for-profit science outreach platforms. Arctic Basecamp hosts an annual event alongside the World Economic Forum’s annual meeting in Davos to raise awareness of polar climate change and its impact beyond the poles.
An ‘Impact Professor’ is a unique role with a primary focus on mobilising action and engagement in addition to undertaking academic research. Reflecting on the opportunities ahead for the team, Professor Gail says: “Our team of scientists, communication experts and researchers are on a mission to unlock climate and nature-positive action across sectors. We are using diverse expertise and evidence-based strategy to reach new audiences and influence decision makers to take action. Together, we can unleash impact.”
André and Rosalie Hoffmann.
“We trust that this initiative will inspire business leaders and policymakers to take decisive action for the wellbeing of nature and humanity.”
The Nature and Climate Impact Team is unique and includes Research Impact Fellows and Communications Impact Fellows, coordinated by Senior Research Project Manager, Katie Cooke, alongside Gail.
So, with such a broad scope, where will the team start?
Katie explains: “By focusing on key industry sectors such as food, consumer packaged goods / electronics, and digital technologies in the first two years, the team will be able to bridge the gap between the scientific understanding of systemic change and the practical methods of delivery. There are currently insufficient tools available for business leaders to understand their impacts on nature and our climate; to be able to commit to change at Board level; or to measure progress against their ambitions to be nature and climate net-positive.”
Crucially, the team will also share knowledge broadly to ensure there are opportunities for others to learn from best practice.
The team will start by identifying key collaborators then develop effective communication tactics and impact pathways across sectors which can accelerate action on nature and climate. The overall aim is that this will be a rolling programme over the next five years, where the team can build momentum and create real impact where we need it most.
For more information about the team or funding opportunities, please contact:
Meet the team
Meet the team
Professor Gail Whiteman
Director
An award-winning science communicator and social science expert who focuses on how decision-makers interpret and respond to systemic global risks.
Katie Cooke
Senior Project Manager
An experienced Higher Education research programme manager, who excels in managing complex, large-scale research initiatives and fostering partnerships.
Frances Kendall
Senior Communications Impact Fellow
Frances combines an academic background and a focus on food systems with extensive experience in storytelling, film, strategy, and foresight including roles at the BBC and Oatly.
Josh Ayers
Research Impact Fellow
Josh has a PhD in Environmental and Climate Justice and brings nearly 20 years of international experience as a climate professional rooted in systems thinking and nature-positive approaches.
Cora Taylor
Research Impact Fellow
Cora has a background in chemistry and environmental science and policy. Recently she has worked with start-up Volta Greentech, tackling climate change by reducing methane emissions from cows.
Marcos Antonio de Oliveira
Research Impact Fellow
Marcos has experience in innovation, entrepreneurship and startups as well as a PHD in Computer Science; his primary interest is applying data science to climate change.
Anna Wych
Project Coordinator
Anna brings over 15 years of experience in live sports broadcasting, where she delivered high-profile projects and built a reputation for operational excellence.
