Paul Lunt

Dr. Paul Lunt serves as Associate Professor in Environmental Science at the University of Plymouth's School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences. He holds multiple leadership roles including Programme Leader for the MSc Environmental Consultancy and Academic Lead for Carbon Offsetting and Knowledge Exchange within the Net Zero Exchange Project. Previously, he directed the ERDF-funded Low Carbon Devon Project (2019-2023) and served as Head of Environmental Science (2012-2017).

Professor Lunt's research spans environmental science with particular focus on climate change impacts, peatland and wetland conservation, ecological restoration, and carbon management. His work addresses critical environmental challenges including biodiversity conservation in temperate rainforests, oak woodland restoration, and sustainable management of freshwater ecosystems. He specializes in translating scientific findings into practical environmental solutions for policy and industry applications.

His recent publications reveal a strong emphasis on climate change adaptation strategies, particularly examining how environmental factors like soil saturation affect ecosystem restoration efforts. His research combines field studies with modeling approaches to address pressing issues in peatland conservation, freshwater ecology, and urban biodiversity management.

• Chartered Environmentalist (CEnv., 2005-present)
• Full Member of the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM, 2004-present)

Professor Lunt has supervised numerous doctoral and master's students working on diverse environmental topics including riverine environments, water vole reintroduction, heathland restoration, climate change impacts on oak woodlands, and eco-engineering of coastal structures. He leads significant research projects including the 'Effects of wetland management on aquatic biodiversity' project (2025-2029) where he serves as Principal Investigator.

He actively contributes to environmental policy through roles on the Defra South-West Lowland Agricultural Peat Task Force and as an expert panel member for NordForsk's 'Nordic University Cooperation.' His work bridges academic research with practical environmental management through knowledge exchange initiatives and collaborative projects with government agencies and environmental organizations.