Chris Short

Chris Short is an Associate Professor in Environmental Governance at the University of Gloucestershire, specializing in land-water management, climate change adaptation, and collaborative community solutions. His work bridges policy, ecology, and community engagement across the UK and Europe.

Education:

• MPhil in Sociology, The Open University (1996)
• HND in Rural Resource Management, Seale Hayne College (1987)

Research Focus: Over 30 years of research addresses agricultural transitions, biodiversity loss, and inclusive environmental governance. Key areas include integrated catchment management, common land preservation, and nature-based solutions. He emphasizes participatory approaches to address global challenges like climate change and environmental decline.

External Roles:

• Chair of Upper Thames Catchment Partnership (2013–present)
• Board Member of Gloucestershire Local Nature Partnership (2015–present)
• Chair & Director of the Foundation for Common Land (NGO)
• Member of Defra’s National Stakeholder Group on Common Land and Social Science Expert Panel

Professional Recognition:

• Evaluator for the Ostrom Award
• External Examiner for Environmental Sustainability and Planning courses at Birmingham City University

Labs/Teams: Oversees research at the Countryside and Community Research Institute, addressing global issues such as food security, biodiversity loss, and climate change through interdisciplinary projects.