• Project Dates: 2010 - 2011
• Project Leader: Jeremy Franks
• Staff: Mark Whittingham and Steve Emery
• Sponsors: ESRC/RELU

The aim of this research project was to explore whether collective contracts would increase the ecological effectiveness of agri-environment schemes (AES). Species’ range and the scope of landscape are typically larger than individual farms, so why are AES options struck with individual farmers on a farm-by-farm piecemeal basis? Collective contracts would allow neighbouring and near-neighbouring land mangers to jointly enter agreements to conserve and protect the environment. The research generated insights into the ecological benefits of collective contracts; the barriers land managers face in working with neighbours to improve the environment, and the role conservation NGOs might play in helping them overcome these barriers.