Researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders got together for the Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture (ENRA) Science, Evidence and Policy Conference 2025 on the 3rd of October. The event focused on shaping the upcoming ENRA Research Strategy 2027–2032, which aims to strengthen collaboration, embed impact, and ensure research continues to address Scotland’s most pressing environmental and rural challenges.
The conference highlighted how impact must be built into projects from the start, using frameworks such as Theory of Change and by developing practical decision support tools and living labs that connect researchers with communities. Building impact into projects throughout the project timeline, from initial project idea to completion and beyond, is something CREW has already established with its impact strategy – a strategy highlighted in our upcoming Autumn newsletter.
CREW’s AI and flood forecasting project, led by the University of Strathclyde and requested by SEPA, was showcased as an example of science addressing real-world challenges through innovation and co-production. The project explores how Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning could be safely and effectively integrated within existing systems. In his opening remarks, Professor Mat Williams, Chief Scientific Adviser (ENRA), emphasised the importance of building impact networks and developing research that delivers meaningful outcomes for policy and practice. This project was also highlighted in a recent RESAS (Rural and Environment Science and Analytical Services Division) lunchtime seminar alongside a project establishing the feasibility of using wastewater to monitor psychoactive substances as an early warning system for public health.
Despite some of those invited not being able to make it or attendees having to leave early due to Storm Amy, discussions remained lively throughout, with panels stressing the need for clear communication, transparency, and co-development with end users.
The consultation for the ENRA Research Strategy 2027–2032 is still open until the 24th October 2025. You can respond the consultation through the following link: Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture (ENRA) research strategy 2027-2032: consultation - gov.scot