For the past two years, Simon Potts, Professor of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services, has been playing a major role in improving worldwide policies for the conservation of pollinators and their sustainable use for crop pollination. Professor Potts’ work came through his co-chairing of the UN Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES).
Professor Potts co-chaired a team of 77 internationally-recognised experts to produce an 800-page landmark report aimed at scientists and technical advisors, as well as a Summary for Policy Makers, which was adopted by 126 IPBES signatory countries. The report’s policy recommendations – to improve risk assessments for pesticides, increase pollinator habitat protection and better manage commercial pollinators – were adopted by all 196 signatory countries to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). Professor Potts’ combined IPBES and CBD activities have benefitted policy makers, industry leaders and UK growers and suppliers, who are adopting new practices to protect pollinators. The public’s understanding was enhanced via a number of events, including a flagship event at Kew Gardens that attracted 6,000 visitors. And the work continues: Professor Potts will chair an update in 2018, and is working with the UN to develop a peerdriven process whereby the global community of experts can put forward new evidence as it becomes available.
Shortlisted for the University Research Engagement and Impact Awards 2017
First published: June 2017