Universities and place based nature recovery.

Sussex Bay is proud to work with the region's three universities, the University of Brighton, the University of Chichester and the University of Sussex, helping to connect research, education, innovation and community action in support of place based, nature led recovery. Our partnerships bring together academics, students, local communities, businesses and public sector organisations to better understand the relationship between nature, people and the economy across our 100-mile coastline. Together, we are helping to build the evidence, skills and partnerships needed to support a thriving Sussex Bay for future generations.

The University of Sussex continues to play an important role in marine research and evidence-led nature recovery. Dr Valentina Scarponi and a team of early career researchers lead aspects of the marine monitoring associated with the Sussex Kelp Recovery Project. Their work includes sediment analysis and ecotoxicology linked to kelp recovery and restoration. A dedicated Kelp Lab has been established, with research helping to improve our understanding of the environmental, ecological and long-term recovery benefits associated with marine habitat restoration.

The University of Brighton brings strengths in applied research, environmental science, community engagement, health, design and place based innovation. Sussex Bay values opportunities to work alongside Brighton colleagues to explore how nature recovery can deliver wider social, economic and wellbeing benefits for coastal communities. This includes helping to ensure that environmental recovery is inclusive, locally relevant and connected to the everyday lives of residents.  A PhD researcher is overseeing the science aspects of a new artificial reef at Shoreham Port.

The University of Chichester is a key strategic partner and the lead university in the development of our emerging Centre for the Blue Economy. Together, we are exploring how education, skills, enterprise and innovation can support nature recovery while creating opportunities for coastal communities. This work seeks to connect marine science, business clustering, culture, education and investment, helping unlock the potential of the blue economy across Sussex.

Sussex Bay also works with academics from across the UK on the interface between blue and green natural capital, systems thinking, place leadership and community participation. We recognise that the challenges facing our coast require collaboration across disciplines and sectors, and universities play a vital role in bringing together knowledge, evidence and innovation.

Dean Spears, Head of Sussex Bay, completed the Sussex MBA while working full time, developing interests in place based leadership, systems change and environmental recovery. Dr Lewis White, Sussex Bay-funded Seascape Research Delivery Lead, works closely with university partners across the region to support the delivery of research and evidence that can inform practical action on the ground. We are very grateful for the desk-space provided on the Sussex campus.

We are grateful to University colleagues for their continued support and collaboration as we work together towards a thriving Sussex Bay, where nature, people and the economy flourish side by side.