Environmental & Energy

UK Scientists Unite for Seabed Survey Off South-West Coast

The UK Centre for Seabed Mapping (UK CSM), comprising over 30 public sector organisations, will conduct a four-week seabed mapping survey (CSM2026) from 20 April to 19 May 2026. The survey will deploy 26 scientists from 11 member organisations aboard Research Vessel Cefas Endeavour to collect hydrographic, geological, and environmental data along the UK's south-west coastline.

Green-winged Orchids, Adders, Skylarks at Somerset Reserve

Natural England published a press release promoting spring visitation to the Mendip National Nature Reserve in Somerset, England. The reserve, declared in October 2023 as the 2nd in the King's Series of National Nature Reserves, spans over 1,400 hectares and includes habitats from rocky gorges to wetlands. Visitors are encouraged to explore between April and early June to view orchids, adders, skylarks, and bats.

Coast Path Route Variation Proposals for Titchwell, Norfolk

Natural England has submitted proposals to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs to vary the approved route of the King Charles III England Coast Path at Titchwell in Norfolk. The public comment opportunity closed on 15 April 2026. Objections will be forwarded to an independent planning inspector who will make a recommendation to the Secretary of State.

£90 Million Species Recovery Programme Funding Announced

The UK government has announced £90 million in funding for threatened species recovery in England, comprising £60 million for Natural England's Species Recovery Programme over three years (2026-2029) and £30 million for the national forest estate. This represents more than double previous funding levels. The announcement includes the new "Wild Again: Restoring England's Wildlife" campaign to coordinate species protection efforts. Successful projects will be confirmed by Natural England in May 2026.

£60 Million Species Recovery Programme Funding Announced for England

The UK government has announced £60 million in funding over three years for the Species Recovery Programme administered by Natural England, more than double previous funding. An additional £30 million will support species recovery on the national forest estate. The first five species to benefit are the turtle dove, diamond-backed spider, Eurasian oystercatcher, red-billed chough, and glutinous snail. A new campaign called "Wild Again: Restoring England's Wildlife" will consolidate government conservation efforts.

UKAEA Fusion Strategy 2026-2030, Targets, Economic Benefits

UKAEA launched its 2026-2030 organisational Strategy for the UK's national fusion laboratory, aligned with the UK Government's Fusion Strategy. The strategy sets 2030 objectives including supporting completion of STEP Fusion prototype detailed design, increasing UK companies in global fusion supply chains, completing research facilities at Culham Campus, and growing the fusion workforce. Fusion is projected as a multi-trillion pound global industry in the latter half of the century.

Global Fusion Guide for SMEs Launched

UKAEA and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero launched the Global Fusion Guide for SMEs on 14 April 2026. The guide provides UK businesses with practical steps to collaborate with and supply to fusion developers worldwide as the sector moves from laboratory research toward demonstration power plants. Over £100 billion is expected to flow into global fusion development between 2026 and 2035, with 68 private fusion companies currently operating alongside major public programmes. UK SMEs with capabilities in engineering, manufacturing, robotics, advanced materials, digital systems and specialist services are the primary audience. The guide aims to help businesses understand where opportunities are emerging and how to engage with the global fusion sector, including those with no prior fusion experience.

UKAEA and National College Launch CROSS Robotics Training Centre in Cumbria

UK Atomic Energy Authority and the National College for Nuclear and Clean Energy have launched CROSS (Cumbria Robotics Operations Skills Centre) in West Cumbria. The facility will provide hands-on robotics and automation training for the UK's nuclear and clean energy workforce. UKAEA has provided over £700,000 of robotics equipment through its FOSTER programme to support the training centre.

UKAEA Fusion Strategy 2026 to 2030

The UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) published its first strategy since 2024 when UK Fusion Energy Ltd was established as a subsidiary. The strategy outlines how UKAEA's National Fusion Laboratory will deliver foundational research, technology, and innovation to support the UK fusion sector through world-leading expertise. UKAEA invites thoughts and ideas from partners in the UK and internationally on this new strategic approach.

UKAEA Launches Fusion Diagnostics Centre of Excellence

UKAEA has launched the Diagnostics Innovation Centre of Excellence (DICE) at its Culham Campus in Oxfordshire to develop advanced measurement technology for fusion energy. The centre leverages decades of UK experience in fusion diagnostics from machines including JET and MAST Upgrade. DICE has already secured contracts worth over £10 million with 10 organisations and will serve as a hub for collaboration between UK industry, international fusion partners, and other sectors including medical research.