There is a major programme of decommissioning of North Sea energy installations planned over the next 20 years and beyond. However, there is a limited evidence base to support environmental management strategies for decommissioning. This programme will address this by tackling critical gaps in scientific understanding of the role these man-made structures play in North Sea ecosystem structure and function.
This research programme, supported by NERC and the Centre for Environment, Fisheries & Aquaculture Science (Cefas), will address the overarching question of 'How critical are man-made structures in the North Sea to ecosystem structure and function?'
Indicative dates relating to the programme are:
- May 2019 - Release of announcement of opportunity for proposals to address the programmes three science challenges
- August 2019 - Closing date for proposals
This information on the planned timetable is provided in good faith to help researchers prepare to respond to this funding opportunity. However, this timetable may be subject to change and timing cannot be guaranteed until the announcement of opportunity is published.