Ecology Academy Podcast
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Top 10 Ecology Academy Podcast Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Ecology Academy Podcast episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Ecology Academy Podcast for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Ecology Academy Podcast episode by adding your comments to the episode page.
#44 - NatureSpace Partnership and District Licensing with Sarah Garratt and Andy Buxton
Ecology Academy Podcast
03/31/24 • 57 min
In this insightful episode of the Ecology Academy podcast, we explore the fascinating world of district licensing in ecological conservation with Sarah Garratt and Andy Buxton from NatureSpace. We delve into Sarah's contribution to NatureSpace's strategic licensing approach and Andy's role in the conceptualization of district licensing. Additionally, we discuss the importance of data in ecological research and predictive modelling's role in conserving Great Crested Newts.
We uncover the rigorous data collection process at NatureSpace and its amalgamation with species distribution modelling for newt conservation. Learn about our noteworthy strides in district licensing schemes and the remarkable improvements in landscape suitability for newt habitats.
The episode unearths NatureSpace's successful collaborations with reputable organizations such as the Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust and the University of Kent's Durrell Institute for Conservation and Ecology (DICE). We also delve into the benefits offered by district licensing to developers, both in terms of cost-saving and environmental impact.
We highlight the dedicated efforts of NatureSpace in creating and restoring habitats and the long-term management strategies with Natural England. Listen in as we explore the science-led approach of district licensing and how it promotes a collaborative outlook for multiple stakeholders.
The episode wraps up with the future of NatureSpace, integrating district licensing with biodiversity net gain (BNG) for better conservation outcomes, and how the district licensing scheme can benefit the advice given to developers by ecological consultants.
If you are a developer looking for practical solutions to ecological impacts and survey challenges, this enlightening conversation offers valuable insights and strategies. Join us as we unravel district licensing schemes with NatureSpace!
NatureSpaceWebsite: https://naturespaceuk.com/
The ‘old’ standard licensing route for great crested newts through Natural England often takes many months, without any specified deadline and requires a large amount of evidence to be submitted during the process. This option can often result in huge delays to development timelines and has gained great crested newts an unwelcome reputation.
Our District and Organisational Licence Schemes offer a simple and quick alternative, which is also available all year-round. Unlike Standard Licensing there is no need to wait for the seasonal survey window (March – June), there is no requirement for additional survey information to be provided and we can deliver a site assessment within just 10 working days.
Our Natural England approved impact assessments ensure developers pay fair and proportionate fees for their proposed development impacts, with money going straight into habitat creation, delivered by our NGO partners off-site. These compensatory habitats are created in strategic locations for newts, away from the pressures of development. Our partners create, manage and monitor these aquatic and terrestrial habitats for at least 20 years, ensuring a sustainable future for newts.
#43 - Great Crested Newt Surveys Using Detection Dogs, with Nikki Glover at Wessex Water
Ecology Academy Podcast
03/18/24 • 40 min
Welcome to an enthralling episode of the Ecology Academy Podcast, where host Richard Dodd is joined by special guest Nikki Glover, a Senior Ecologist at Wessex Water renowned for her innovative newt detection techniques. Our dynamic conversation delves into Nikki's essential contributions to large-scale development infrastructure projects, her diverse career path, and her unique use of detection dogs for ecological conservation.
Nikki gives a detailed account of how her passion for ecology sparked during her Animal Behaviour studies, which led her to a pivotal role in preserving the Great Crested Newt population. With her licensed Springer Spaniel, Freya, Nikki has redefined the detection methods for this amphibian species, paving the way for potential implementation of these techniques across diverse species.
Gain an inside look into the complicated process of gaining a license for newt detection dogs, including the obstacles faced and knowledge gained. Nikki’s commitment and determination in this process are truly inspiring, offering valuable insights to budding ecologists and conservationists in the field.
This episode further analyses detection dogs' importance for ecological conservation, with a focus on their implementation within Wessex Water’s operations. Discover how the licensing process works, the potential for expanded recognition of dog detection in licenses, the challenges of public interest and media attention, hilarious anecdotes, and the critical balance between dog handling and ecological work.
We also explore the intricate aspects of the licensing and registration process for detection dogs used in conservation, factors affecting the application’s success, the benefits of a 'joined-up' approach towards conservation, and the creation of guidelines for Great Crested Newt detection. Learn about the worldwide collaboration in conservation, the potential of detection dog symposiums, and the opportunities for first-hand observations of their work.
Tune in to this must-listen episode of the Ecology Academy Podcast, perfect for anyone interested in ecological conservation, innovative study methodologies, and intriguing career paths in the field!
#27 - Taking Action on Your Goals and How to be a Better Manager
Ecology Academy Podcast
01/09/23 • 32 min
We all need to make plans, but more importantly take action in implementing them!
This episode is not aimed to help you set goals, but instead it is focused on how to be a better manager. Whether you are a first line manager or a senior executive, we all need the tools to help us support ourselves and others.
If you're just starting out, you can download a copy of our Skills Wheel and Guidance Notes which will help you to make a start in recognising your areas of strength as well as those areas that could benefit from a little extra focus.
If you are new to 'managing' people then what support have you received to enable you to deliver the best results for your team, your company, and for you? Do you know what management style you need to use, when to use it, and why? Can you do so consistently? These are the questions that you need to ask yourself in how competent a manager you are and what action you may need to support you and others.
The Ecology Academy is developing a management training course for those new to, or soon to be, managing people. We recognise that management is not innate and needs to be developed over the entire duration of your time as an ecologist. This is not something you can learn after 1 day of training!
If you are interested in participating in our management training courses, then email us with an expression of interest to find out more at: [email protected].
The podcast is available on all major streaming platforms, just search for 'Ecology Academy'.
If you have any recommendations for a future podcast topic, or would like to appear on the show, please do get in touch at [email protected]. We would love to hear from you!
How to get in touch
You can follow us or get in touch via our socials or at [email protected]
Website: https://training.ecologyacademy.co.uk/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ecology-academy/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ecologyacademy
Instagram: @ecology_academy
Twitter: @ecology_academy
#24 - UK Habitat Classification System and the Digital Ecologist: interview with Paul Losse, Salix Ecology
Ecology Academy Podcast
10/03/22 • 40 min
Welcome to the first episode in a brand new season of the Ecology Academy podcast!
In this month's episode we focus on delivering everything you need to know about the UK Habitat Classification System (UKHab) and why, as a digital ecologist, it matters.
Our Guest
Our guest on this episode is Paul Losse of Salix Ecology.
Paul worked as a Conservation Officer and Senior Specialist (land management and conservation) for English Nature and Natural England for 10 years. His roles have included providing advice to land owners on ecology, wildlife legislation, conservation land management, and carrying out habitat surveys. He has provided training and guidance to developers and local authorities on cases where nature conservation and protected species issues arise.
Paul also has nine years experience as a training consultant in the public sector.
Paul is the instructor on our popular training course, Introduction to QGIS for Ecologists.
UK Habitat Classification System
The UK Habitat Classification System was launched in 2018 and is a free-to-use, unified, and comprehensive approach to classifying habitats. It has been designed to provide a simple and robust approach to survey and monitoring for the 21st century.
The new classification, which covers terrestrial and freshwater habitats, is flexible enough for use in a wide range of survey types from walkover surveys of small urban sites to regional and national scale rural habitat mapping.
The classification, which includes a comprehensive Professional Edition and an abridged Basic Edition, will be a valuable tool for species and habitat research, ecological impact, ecosystem services, and biodiversity net gain assessments.
Ecology Academy News
Our popular 'Career Accelerator for Aspiring Ecological Consultants' course is back and we are ready for a brand new cohort of motivated students. This eight week online modular course kicks off on 17 October 2022 and will enable students/recent graduates/career changers to take significant steps towards achieving a permanent position as an ecological consultant in the UK.
To find out more about the course, or to enrol today, please click here.
Don't forget that you can follow us or get in touch via our socials or at [email protected]:
Website: https://training.ecologyacademy.co.uk/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ecology-academy/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ecologyacademy
Instagram: @ecology_academy
Twitter: @ecology_academy
#26 - What is Biodiversity Net Gain and the Biodiversity Metric? Interview with Dr Nick White, Natural England
Ecology Academy Podcast
12/05/22 • 54 min
During this episode, host Richard Dodd interviews Dr Nicholas White, Principal Adviser on Net Gain for Natural England, and discusses what skills we need as ecologists to help deliver Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG). We get to hear Nick's insights into the Environment Act and the delivery of BNG, the newly updated biodiversity metric, standards, and guidance, as well as marine net gain!
Our Guest
Nick works across Government (at both a national and local level), and with developers, NGOs, and academia to advance policy, practice, and standards around net gain (including biodiversity, natural capital, and environmental net gain).
The current focus of Nick’s work is on biodiversity net gain legislation, the biodiversity metric, and biodiversity net gain standards and guidance, as well as working on the evolving approach to marine net gain.
As a non-ecologist, Nick is interested in how biodiversity and the natural environment can contribute towards wider social and economic benefits, and has a strong interest in green infrastructure, especially in relation to urban areas and its ability to enhance wider (grey) infrastructure resilience.
Nick enjoys engaging with different sectors and seeking opportunities to help secure the delivery of shared outcomes and has previously worked in the health, cultural, and charitable sectors.
This Episode
During the interview Richard and Nick discuss; how the biodiversity metric tool is not to be used as a decision-making tool, the need to bring ecologists on board at the earliest opportunity, the difference between a S106 Agreement and a Conservation Covenant, where to seek out training, and the advantages of on-site and off-site BNG delivery for developers.
We also talk about landowners offering land to help developers deliver BNG and the commercial incentives to doing so, the biodiversity off-set register, management plans, and monitoring.
This was a great discussion, and the Ecology Academy are very grateful to Nick for offering up his time to talk with us on the podcast.
The Ecology Academy will soon be launching our own Biodiversity Net Gain Fundamentals training course, so be sure to check that out if you would like to run through a case study on how to use the biodiversity metric.
The podcast is available on all major streaming platforms, just search for 'Ecology Academy'.
If you have any recommendations for a future podcast topic, or would like to appear on the show, please do get in touch at [email protected]. We would love to hear from you!
How to get in touch
You can follow us or get in touch via our socials or at [email protected]:
Website: https://training.ecologyacademy.co.uk/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ecology-academy/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ecologyacademy
Instagram: @ecology_academy
Twitter: @ecology_academy
#25 - Career Guidance with Tilly Tilbrook: great advice from application through to interview
Ecology Academy Podcast
11/07/22 • 60 min
This month’s episode is from a discussion which was recorded as part of a live Q&A session for students at Nottingham Trent University during the delivery of our six-week Career Accelerator for Aspiring Ecological Consultants course for 2nd and final year students studying for a BSc in Wildlife Conservation.
Throughout the six weeks, students gained a thorough understanding of; the role of an ecological consultant and ecological consultancy, planning policy and legislation relevant to their work as an ecological consultant, considerations of what to put into a quote that would go to a client, preliminary roost assessment, preliminary ecological appraisal (both theoretical and practical application), protected species surveys and licensing, using QGIS to generate a habitat plan, report writing for ecological consultants, and finally, career guidance.
It was for this final career advice session that Tilly Tilbrook, Director at Integrated Environmental Solutions Ltd, kindly joined to share her expert insights on the recruitment process and what she looks for in candidates coming through as early career ecologists.
Our Guest
Tilly Tilbrook is a Chartered Ecologist who has worked in the industry since 2002. Her background includes working for local government, Natural England, and both small and large environmental consultancies. She founded Integrated Ecological Solutions Ltd in 2009, partly through a desire to work more ethically. Over the past thirteen years, she has employed many freelance and early career ecologists, and is part of the CIEEM working group looking at employment issues in the sector.
During this recording we discuss the job advert, job application cover letter, CV, interview process, and finally some extra thoughts on obtaining missing skills where time and/or money may be limited.
Resources
Here is a non-exhaustive list of ways to bolster your CV through online training courses suitable for early career ecologists looking to work in the UK. Some are free, others are not.
*Free*
Join this Facebook group to learn more about QGIS. It's not comprehensive and you will have to search for what you're looking for, so if you are looking for a more complete introduction then we do have a QGIS training course aimed at beginners (see *paid*).
Watch Joshua Styles MCIEEM’s excellent webinar on Botanical Surveys for Development.
The Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM) often run free webinars or occasionally for a small £3-5 fee for non-members.
Recordings of free-to-attend webinars can be found on CIEEM’s YouTube and a list of paid-for recordings can be found under the ‘Webinars’ subheading of this webpage - a link is sent after access has been purchased.
There's also other early careers guidance on CIEEM’s website here: https://lnkd.in/dKSjmRCU.
Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (ARC) Trust have several free online training courses here: https://lnkd.in/ddfpTW4D.
*Paid*
Ecology Academy has a range of courses covering many different topics, including; Introduction to QGIS for Ecologists, Introduction to Bryophytes, Preliminary Ecological Appraisal Fundamentals, or for university/group courses (or individuals at certain times of the year) there is the Career Accelerator for Aspiring Ecological Consultants.
The Arboricultural Association has training on Bats in Trees.
The Field Studies Council also offer a variety of courses both online and across their many field centres:
#33 - The Role of an In-house Ecologist: interview with Rosie Pope, Foster + Partners
Ecology Academy Podcast
07/03/23 • 44 min
In this interview Richard talks with Rosie about her role as an in-house ecologist. Together they discuss the differences between the role of working as a 'clean' consultant ecologist and those of the in-house 'expert' within a company or organisation. The challenges of working in a creative and visual way, as opposed to the more text-based reporting.
Rosie PopeRosie Pope is the first in-house Ecologist at Foster + Partners. Having worked in consultancy previously, Rosie speaks about the challenges involved in carving out this new role. She discusses the way she works with the Architects and other specialists to try and achieve positive outcomes for biodiversity. Rosie is currently on Maternity Leave with her baby daughter.
Our courses CoachingCoaching is a powerful, transformative relationship designed to empower you to realize your personal and professional potential. As a business and life coach, we work with you to explore your goals, challenges, and fears, guiding you to uncover roadblocks and empowering you to create solutions from within.
Whether it's navigating career changes, improving relationships, or building confidence, coaching provides you with sustainable tools, insights, and strategies to self-improve, adapt, and thrive in any circumstance. It's an investment in your future, acting as a catalyst for you to stride forward with confidence and clarity, and transform your dreams into reality.
Register your interest here: https://training.ecologyacademy.co.uk/courses/career-coaching
Employee coursesAre you an employer or looking for a career as an ecologist?
We run our popular 'Career Ecologist' Course. A course that is tailored to the needs of your employees and the individual. No two courses are exactly the same!
The course can cover technical skills, such as 'preliminary roost assessment' or 'preliminary ecological appraisal' fundamental training. We also cover the equally important transferable skills such as 'people management' and 'information management'.
To find out more either click on the course link (https://training.ecologyacademy.co.uk/courses/early-career-ecologists) or email [email protected]
#32 - Measuring What Matters: an insight into data analysis with Jez Smith of Eco-Explore
Ecology Academy Podcast
06/05/23 • 65 min
Richard talks on today's show with Jeremy Smith on why we should take data seriously. On the show Jez tells us why we need to think and ask more questions to help solve real life problems such as biodiversity loss.
Jez Smith
Jez is a research ecologist for the British Trust for Ornithology using data analysis to help understand the trends in bird demography.
He is also one of the directors at Eco-Explore a company founded by ecologists who provide training in Data Analysis to consultant ecologists, NGO’s, PhD students, conservation scientists and government departments.
His background has often involved data analysis in one way or another and also ecology and Jez has a passion for teaching and helping people identify where understanding data better can help them.
About Eco-Explore
Eco-explore Community Interest Company is a scientific research and communication enterprise, established in 2010.
A start-up grant from Caerphilly Borough Council, and close links with Cardiff University and the Wildlife Trusts of South and West Wales, have enabled us to diversify into a variety of roles:
- Guided walks and Wildlife Events; citizen-science, collecting biodiversity data and experiencing Wales’ wonderful wildlife
- Overseas expeditions; making discoveries and aiding conservation
- Environmental consultancy; providing data and advice on a range of conservation issues
- Data analysis; teaching statistics, data analysis consultancy and publishing our own data analysis guidebook
- School, Undergraduate and graduate training; with Cardiff University – hosting school work experience placements, university Professional Training Year placements, and co-supervision of PhD projects
- Promoting local conservation; practical conservation, grant funding and campaigning
- Supporting conservation NGOs; Eco-explore is a not-for profit organization – revenue is used to support joint projects in collaboration with conservation NGOs, primarily with the Wildlife Trusts Wales and through the Welsh Wildlife Partnership scheme, helping to conserve Wales’ wildlife for future generations.
Connect via:
Twitter: @Ecoexplore
Facebook: Eco-Explore Community Interest Company
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/eco-explore-community-interest-company/
New courses in 2023: http://www.eco-explore.co.uk/statistics-training/
#28 - Exploitation of early career ecologists: Interview with Paul Whitby, Ecology Co-op
Ecology Academy Podcast
02/15/23 • 58 min
Career exploitation refers to situations in which an employer or work environment takes advantage of an employee for their own benefit, often at the expense of the employee's well-being and long-term career prospects. This can take many forms, such as paying employees less than they deserve, not providing adequate opportunities for growth and development, or assigning them work that is outside of their job description or skill set.
Furthermore, career exploitation can lead to feelings of burnout, job dissatisfaction, and a lack of motivation to continue working in a particular field. It can also limit an employee's future career opportunities by not providing the necessary skills and experience to advance to higher-level positions.
So how can early career ecologists, with maybe only a limited knowledge of the work of an ecological or environmental company identify the signs of exploitation, and if found what can they do about it?
Well, helping us to understand this topic is our guest today, Paul Whitby, Managing Director and Principal Ecologist at The Ecology Co-op.
How to avoid exploitation in ecological consultancy?
If you want to avoid exploitation in your career, and help create a better industry for other aspiring ecologists, here’s some suggestions for what you can do:
- Understand what you value from your career. Why are you doing it? Depending on your reasons, are there any trade-offs you would be willing to make and to what threshold?
- Do your research and due diligence. Do your online research, ask questions, or seek answers about the company or organisation you are looking to work for. Try talking to previous employees to make sure the role you’re considering will meet your expectations.
- Create your own career opportunities. Don’t limit yourself to what you see advertised. Identify your goals and companies / organisations or people that could be a match, and reach out to them.
- Report inaccurate advertising or mistreatment. If you’ve done your research and an experience doesn’t provide what was promised, this is exploitation. If a company, organisation, or individual is mistreating its employees, this is unacceptable and should be reported to the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM).
Our Guest:
Paul is a Chartered Ecologist with fourteen years’ experience working as an ecologist and environmental consultant. His career began in Cheshire working on a number of large projects including gas pipelines, waste recovery centres, Liquid Natural Gas installations, and other commercial developments. After a short spell working back in his hometown of Petworth, Paul set up Azure Ecology in 2009, a small independent ecological consultancy working with a network of sub-contractors across south east England.
Paul founded The Ecology Co-operation in March 2014 to replace Azure Ecology and accommodate the expanding team of ecologists. Paul has working experience with a wide variety of British terrestrial wildlife and has managed projects of all sizes including writing Ecological Impact Assessments (EcIA), working as an expert witness at planning enquiries, and completing 23 Farm Environment Plans as part of Higher Level Stewardship applications across seven different counties. He has survey licenses for bats, dormice, and great crested newts and has held a number of European Protected Species licenses.
Aside from ecology, Paul’s interests include rugby, vegetable gardening, free diving, and pretending to be good at DIY.
Team Leadership Training for Ecologists:
Also, why not join us on 16 March at 11:00am for a FREE 45-minute Discovery Webinar to find out more about 'Team Leadership Training for Ecologists' from our course partners.
Register your interest here: https://training.ecologyacademy.co.uk/courses/discovery-webinar-team-leadership-training-for-ecologists
How to get in touch
You can follow us or get in touch via our socials or at [email protected]:
Website: https://training.ecologyacademy.co.uk/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ecology-academy/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ecologyacademy
Instagram: @ecology_academy
Twitter: @ecology_academy
#42 - Diving Deep into Newt Conservation with Specialist Jon Cranfield
Ecology Academy Podcast
03/04/24 • 55 min
Welcome to the Ecology Academy podcast hosted by Richard Dodd. In this episode, we delve into the transformative journey of Jon Cranfield, a herpetofauna specialist and director of Herpetologic Limited. Starting from his childhood passion for ecology, we journey through his extensive experience dealing with protected species and examine his commitment to ecological conservation through his role with Hampshire Isle White Amphibian and Reptile Group.
The episode unwraps in-depth talks about John's concerns on mitigation strategies, the need for innovative thinking, and biodiversity considerations. It highlights new insights into Great Crested Newt conservation and discusses different licensing routes, their implications, and their impact on both development projects and wildlife.
Explore the importance of understanding specific needs and adapting to scenarios in the process of newt conservation. Spotlights are also thrown on the challenges posed by rigid guidelines and the balance in considering factors like the cost, inclusion of other ecological elements, and achieving responsible development through effective conservation measures.
We examine case studies of successful mitigation sites and discuss how advancements in technology are influencing the new conservation landscape. The use of environmental DNA for pond monitoring and the efficiency of detection dogs in finding newts in terrestrial habitats are discussed and evaluated.
The episode also dives into the role of Natural England policies, long-term follow-up management, and monitoring in achieving successful newt conservation. It concludes with a deep discourse on modern conservation strategies, acknowledging the demands of managing ponds, the concept of creating new ponds, and the wider complexities involving newt conservation.
The podcast winds up with an overview of an upcoming workshop on Adder Ecology Survey and Mitigation and some prudent advice to budding ecologists about blending traditional techniques with technological advancements. The episode ends on an inspiring note, emphasizing the need for active practitioners in linking ecology and people.
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FAQ
How many episodes does Ecology Academy Podcast have?
Ecology Academy Podcast currently has 53 episodes available.
What topics does Ecology Academy Podcast cover?
The podcast is about Nature, Podcasts, Science, Business and Careers.
What is the most popular episode on Ecology Academy Podcast?
The episode title '#44 - NatureSpace Partnership and District Licensing with Sarah Garratt and Andy Buxton' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on Ecology Academy Podcast?
The average episode length on Ecology Academy Podcast is 47 minutes.
How often are episodes of Ecology Academy Podcast released?
Episodes of Ecology Academy Podcast are typically released every 28 days.
When was the first episode of Ecology Academy Podcast?
The first episode of Ecology Academy Podcast was released on Jun 24, 2021.
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