The MoU builds on our existing relationship, which includes two members of UEA academic staff – Prof Ben Garrod and Dr Jeff Price – our Vice Presidents. 

The strategic partnership formally recognises shared areas of interest and a joint commitment to addressing the ecological and societal challenges of our time; as well as providing further opportunities for collaboration in areas including research partnerships, knowledge exchange, and skills development for students and staff.  

UEA is renowned for its pioneering research in environmental and biological sciences and climate change, and the campus itself is a hotbed of biodiversity, providing a home for over 5,700 species – making the University a fitting partner for our work. 

We have also recently become a signatory of UEA’s Civic Charter, which outlines shared values, responsibilities and commitments to the region. 

Natalie Bailey, our Director of Engagement, and guest judge for UEA’s 2025 Innovation and Impact Awards, said:  

‘We look forward to collaborating closely with UEA to protect and restore nature across Norfolk. By partnering with academic researchers, we can ensure our work is evidence-based and informed by the latest science, and we are excited to explore new and creative ways to help people engage in wildlife conservation. 

‘Together, we will work towards a sustainable future where environmental stewardship, public engagement, and cutting-edge research work hand in hand to create a wilder Norfolk for generations to come.’ 

The signing of the MOU by Prof Julian Blow, UEA Pro-Vice Chancellor for Research & Innovation, and Eliot Lyne, our CEO, took place in The Enterprise Centre on UEA campus.  

Prof Julian Blow, UEA Pro-Vice Chancellor for Research & Innovation, said: ‘I am delighted to see UEA’s relationship with Norfolk Wildlife Trust blossom into a formal agreement. At its heart, this partnership is about joining forces to address the urgent challenges facing nature today — from biodiversity loss and climate change to the need for more inclusive and meaningful engagement with the natural world. 

‘Through this agreement, we’re creating a framework that enables us to collaborate more strategically and more effectively — combining Norfolk Wildlife Trust’s deep-rooted work in conservation with UEA’s world-leading research and teaching.’ 

Our collaborative activities will initially focus on four key themes: 

1. Biodiversity, species and habitats  

2. Climate change, nature-based solutions and economics  

3. Technology for nature conservation  

4. People and nature – participation, inclusion, and engagement 

This will allow us to collectively build on our respective strengths and fulfil our joint ambition to create bigger, better and more joined up landscapes across Norfolk where wildlife thrives and everyone can enjoy easy access to and connection with nature.  

Together, we will drive meaningful change for nature, for communities, and for future generations.