NERC - Planet Earth

The science we support is amazing. Our researchers study every aspect of our planet, and how humans are changing it - from the poles to the tropical rainforests, and from the depths of the ocean to the edge of space. Planet Earth brings you the latest stories, pictures and videos about their work.

Protecting biodiversity in palm oil

News that chocolate, bread and dried fruit all share a common ingredient with household detergents and cosmetics might sound both unlikely and unappetising. However, palm oil is used in each of these and many more everyday products.

13 November 2018

The plastics journey: Where are we now?

While plastics have many benefits, plastic waste is a serious form of pollution, particularly in our oceans. Here we take a look at the history of plastics and where we are now.

8 Nov 2018

From "trivial issue" to primetime TV: A researcher's journey through plastic

It is a rare TV programme that has the instant impact of David Attenborough's Blue Planet II.

8 Nov 2018

I'm a bat biologist

Better cocoa crops for better livelihoods

Flood research by numbers

How can we work with nature to reduce flood risk?

It is a tale of survival for plants and insects

Clear biodiversity commitments made by nearly one third of the world's biggest companies

Tiny fossils reveal how shrinking was essential for successful evolution

Scientists closing in on source of Shetland tsunamis

Keeping satellites in the sky

Under the faultlines

Unlocking the mysteries of life giving microbes

New technology models cities' air quality in under 10 minutes

Sydney rock oysters shrinking due to coastal acidification

Genetic toolkit gives periwinkles seashore advantage

Scientists take to the skies to measure emissions from Greater Manchester moor fires

Why is the UK's honeypot shrinking?