My research focuses on how to reconcile biodiversity conservation with meeting human food needs and other land-demanding activities; the costs and benefits of retaining intact ecosystems; and identifying what works in conservation.
I collaborate closely with conservation practitioners and with colleagues in other disciplines, including economics and psychology. In my book Wild Hope I argue that cautious, evidence-based optimism is vital in tackling environmental challenges.
I helped establish the Student Conference on Conservation Science, the Cambridge Conservation Forum, the Cambridge Conservation Initiative, Earth Optimism and the Cambridge Centre for Carbon Credits. I currently co-chair a Royal Society programme on delivering sustainable, land-efficient farming for people and the planet.
Student Conference on Conservation Science
Cambridge Centre for Carbon Credits
University of Cambridge Conservation Research Institute
Recent Media
Royal Society Environment Prize Lecture
Professor Balmford gave a lecture on 'Feeding the world without costing the earth' following the award of the Royal Society's first Environment Medal. The award recognised his groundbreaking contributions to conservation science, having built transformative partnerships and redefined the landscape of conservation education.
Farming Today interview
Professor Balmford was interviewed for BBC Farming Today on his 2050 vision for the UK countryside. The interview is available here:
Wild Hope TV Series
A series of TV programmes, aimed at inspiring audiences with positive stories about protecting our planet from biodiversity loss and climate change, is available to view on the PBS YouTube channel.
The series was inspired by the work of Professor Andrew Balmford and his book Wild Hope.
Each half-hour episode looks at bold interventions, unexpected alliances, and nature’s resilience revealing how local action can spark powerful change and provide a refreshing dose of hope in an increasingly cynical world.
The series was made by HHMI Tangled Bank Studios and can be viewed here: