creating environmental improvements through biodiversity

5 DISSEMINATION & IMPACT OF
ALSF RESEARCH
Many ALSF reports are difficult to obtain, and the lack of an effective central
ALSF database means that opportunities for dissemination and cross-linking
between different themes are limited. Collation of reports into a central,
searchable website would be very beneficial.
There is huge variation in the dissemination and promotion of ALSF reports by their authors. A standard
means of dissemination (such as a website), or minimum requirement for dissemination of reports to
relevant parties, would be of use.
Sustainable Aggregates Creating Environmental Improvements through Biodiversity
The impact of reports reviewed in this sub-theme was also variable. This is addressed for each report in the
‘Impacts (Actual)’ and ‘Impacts (Potential)’ sections of the report summaries (Annex 2). In general, a high
impact was achieved for biodiversity where :
• Information or good practice from wider sources was collated and disseminated (e.g. Cripps et al. 2004,
Davies, 2006)
• A report itself provided an example of good practice and / or made recommendations for improvements
to the current situation (e.g. Ryland et al., 2005, Worcestershire County Council)
• Novel means of addressing blocks to habitat creation / enhancement were provided (e.g. Harris, 2004)
• Specific research issues were addressed (e.g. Fisher et al., 2004, Robinson et al., 2004, Walls, 2004, Walls
and Brown, 2004)
While some reports were well disseminated, the overall impact of all the reports would be further increased
by wider dissemination and easier accessibility.
The After Minerals website (www.afterminerals.com) provides a forum for all issues relating to biodiversity
and minerals site restoration. Links could be made between this and a central ALSF website, to further
increase information accessibility and sharing of expertise.
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