Source · Select Committees · Environmental Audit Committee
Recommendation 60
60
Acknowledged
Establish dedicated long-term funding mechanisms for transformative Antarctic research projects.
Recommendation
We recommend that the Natural Environment Research Council and UK Research and Innovation establish dedicated funding mechanisms to support transformative Antarctic research, with substantial time commitments extending to at least ten years for large-scale projects. The current reliance on short-term funding cycles (typically three to five years) is ill-suited to the logistical realities of Antarctic research and contributes to inefficiencies. Longer funding horizons would not only improve the delivery of complex science programmes but would also make better use of infrastructure and personnel, reducing waste and increasing impact. (Recommendation, Paragraph 261)
Government Response Summary
The government accepts the recommendation for NERC and UKRI to establish dedicated, long-term funding mechanisms for transformative Antarctic research but offers no specific plans for implementation.
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
. The Government accepts this recommendation.