Emma Shuttleworth

Emma Shuttleworth is a lecturer in physical geography at the University of Manchester. Her research concerns the restoration of mires and peatlands, such as The Great North Bog, described as one of the 'five great projects to protect nature', and she is active in promoting public understanding the field of geomorphology.
Shuttleworth holds a PhD from University of Manchester and an MSc from University of Liverpool.
Peat is an effective form of natural carbon capture and Shuttleworth works to explain how large-scale restoration and nature recovery in our landscape are vital to combat climate change. "Peatland restoration is about multiple benefits, it's not just about the flood control, it's not just about the ecosystem recovery, it's not just about the carbon. So, to me, it's a bit of a no brainer to invest in peatland restoration." Hers is the first project to combine peatland research, conservation charities and landowners' engagement in a partnership constructing 'hundreds of dams out of stone, wood or coir (Sri Lankan coconut husks)' which encourage deeper channels and natural vegetation growth. This approach has been able to show concrete results within months, in particular the rapid expansion of native Sphagnum moss to absorb excess water and the project's improvements have in a short period increased the biodiversity of birds, amphibians and mammals. It is estimated that this project has reduced water flow by 57% and saved 48m tonnes of carbon release from peat degradation. and 2019.. Shuttleworth since 2019, is an associate editor of the academic journal Mires and Peat.
She developed and tested a novel way of engaging the public with flood planning and emergency responses, reported in Downpour! - Climate change communication through interactive immersive street games'

Main Menu

See Also

Main Menu