Professional & public bodies

Association for Heritage Interpretation

Bringing together people actively involved or concerned with interpretation of natural and cultural heritage.

Chartered Institute of Ecology & Environmental Management

Representing and supporting ecologists and environmental managers for the benefit of nature and society.

CLA Country, Land & Business Association

For owners of land, property and business in rural England and wales.

CNCC Council for Nature Conservation & the Countryside

Statutory advisor on nature conservation and natural beauty to the Department of Agriculture, Environment & Rural Affairs (DAERA) in Northern Ireland.

DEFRA Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs

UK government department responsible for safeguarding the natural environment, supporting the food and farming industry, and sustaining a thriving rural economy.

English Heritage

‘Exists to help people understand, value, care for and enjoy England’s unique heritage.’ Sponsored by the Department for Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS).

Environment Agency (England & Wales)

‘We work to create better places for people and wildlife, and support sustainable development.’

Forest Service Northern Ireland

Covers forestry education, forest industry, forestry and the environment and forest planning. Part of the DAERA.

Institute of Chartered Foresters

The Institute of Chartered Foresters is the Royal Chartered body for foresters and arboriculturists in the UK. It works to foster a greater public awareness and understanding of forestry in order to serve a variety of commercial, recreational, environmental and scientific interests.

JNCC Joint Nature Conservation Committee

Advises the UK Government on UK & international nature conservation to maintain & enrich biological diversity & conserve geological features. UK BAP Priority Species: the most threatened & requiring conservation action, and protected areas.

Ministry of Defence: Sanctuary magazine

The MoD’s annual sustainability magazine – covering sustainable development and the sustainable management of the natural and built assets across the Defence estate, and how the MOD is undertaking its responsibility for stewardship of the estate in the UK and overseas.

National Parks UK

Guides to the UK’s 15 national parks: independent bodies funded by central government to conserve & enhance the natural beauty, wildlife & cultural heritage of their land. Also FAQs for students.

Natural England

‘We’re the government’s adviser for the natural environment in England, helping to protect England’s nature and landscapes for people to enjoy and for the services they provide.’ (overseen by DEFRA). National Nature Reserves in England links to all the official nature reserves in England.

NatureScot

Scotland's nature agency. Protects and promotes Scotland’s natural heritage.

Northern Ireland Department of the Environment

Responsible for waste, water, pollution, biodiversity, historic environment, land & landscapes, etc.

OPAL Open Air Laboratories Network

UK-wide citizen science initiative that allows you to get hands-on with nature, whatever your age, background or level of ability. Activities, resources & national surveys collecting important scientific data. Events & workshops.

Scottish Countryside Rangers’ Association

Professional membership charity supporting countryside rangers in Scotland.

Scottish Environment Protection Agency

‘Our role is to help protect and maintain Scotland’s vital environmental resources.’

Scotland’s National Nature Reserves

Find a reserve or see the research and other work undertaken.

Whitley Fund for Nature

Offering awards & grants to outstanding nature conservationists around the world. ‘Supporting projects founded on good science, community involvement … champion passionate individuals who are committed to precipitating long-lasting conservation benefits on the ground.’