British Ecological Society
The British Ecological Society is the oldest ecological society in the world, working to promote and advance the science of ecology through publications, events, grants, and policy work.
Company facts
- Founded
- 1913
- Headquarters
- United Kingdom
- CEO
- Hazel Norman
About
Through groundbreaking research and global collaboration, the British Ecological Society (BES) is at the forefront of advancing ecological science to address the planet's most pressing environmental challenges. As the oldest ecological society in the world, established in 1913, the BES has a long-standing tradition of fostering innovation and supporting the ecological community. The society champions the development of novel methodologies and technologies to understand complex ecosystems. By publishing a portfolio of world-leading scientific journals, such as the 'Journal of Ecology' and 'Methods in Ecology and Evolution', the BES provides a platform for disseminating cutting-edge discoveries and fostering scientific discourse. These publications are pivotal in driving forward our understanding of everything from biodiversity and climate change to ecosystem function and conservation strategies. The society actively promotes the use of advanced analytical tools and reproducible research practices, offering guides and workshops on data management, reproducible code using technologies like R and version control systems like GitHub, ensuring that ecological science is transparent, robust, and impactful. The British Ecological Society is dedicated to building a dynamic and inclusive global community of ecologists. With a membership spanning over 120 countries, the BES convenes experts, early-career researchers, and practitioners through a diverse range of events, from large-scale annual meetings to specialized symposia and workshops. These gatherings are crucial for sparking interdisciplinary collaboration and forging partnerships that lead to innovative solutions. A key focus is translating scientific evidence into tangible action. The BES actively engages with policymakers, businesses, and the public to ensure that decisions affecting the environment are informed by the best available science. Through strategic initiatives and policy work, the society influences change and promotes a world where nature and people can thrive. By investing in the next generation of ecologists through grants, training, and career development opportunities, the British Ecological Society is ensuring a continuous pipeline of talent dedicated to pioneering the future of ecological innovation and stewardship.