Interests and expertise
My research focuses on solutions that tackle multiple environmental, economic and social problems at once, and identifying and mitigating the trade-offs that can arise. I focus mainly on nature-based solutions, natural capital, ecosystem services, green infrastructure, and the multiple benefits of climate adaptation and mitigation actions. My work includes developing methods of mapping and assessing land cover and natural capital, exploring land-use trade-offs and identifying evidence-based policy options that can meet climate, biodiversity and socio-economic goals. I have worked closely with Local Authorities and other stakeholders in the UK to develop and apply these methods in a way that can support decision-makers. I use a range of methods including Geographical Information Systems (GIS), spreadsheet models such as FABLE, and systematic literature reviews.
Background
My first degree was in Natural Sciences (University of Cambridge) followed by an MSc in Exploration Geophysics. I worked for 15 years as a senior environmental consultant, specializing in climate change, transport, energy and waste management policy. I was then a freelance consultant and writer for a few years, and wrote The Climate Bonus: co-benefits of climate policy, which explores the additional benefits that society can gain through tackling climate change, including cleaner air, biodiversity protection, a more resource-efficient economy and healthier lifestyles. I joined the University of Oxford in 2014.
Key Publications
- Jones, S. et al. (2023) “Pathways to achieving nature-positive and carbon–neutral land use and food systems in Wales”, Regional Environmental Change, 23(1).
- Smith, A. et al. (2022) “Sustainable pathways towards climate and biodiversity goals in the UK: the importance of managing land-use synergies and trade-offs”, Sustainability Science, 18, pp. 521–538.
- Acreman, M. et al. (2021) “Evidence for the effectiveness of nature-based solutions to water issues in Africa”, Environmental Research Letters, 16(6).
- Choi, C., Berry, P. and Smith, A. (2021) “The climate benefits, co-benefits, and trade-offs of green infrastructure: A systematic literature review”, Journal of Environmental Management, 291.
- Seddon, N. et al. (2020) “Understanding the value and limits of nature-based solutions to climate change and other global challenges”, Philosophical Transactions B: Biological Sciences, 375(1794).
- Smith, A. et al. (2017) “How natural capital delivers ecosystem services: a typology derived from a systematic review”, Ecosystem Services, 26(A), pp. 111–126.