Tim uses a range of research methods to tackle issues in restoration ecology and corporate sustainability. Two major themes of his work are:

Ecological functioning of restored ecosystems

Billions of dollars are being invested worldwide in ecosystem restoration as a strategy for combatting declines in biodiversity – but nobody really knows how well it’s working. Restoration programmes can successfully re-establish some elements of biodiversity – but particularly in tropical marine systems, little is known about whether these restored ecosystems deliver the same ecosystem functions and create the same socio-economic opportunities as healthy ecosystems. This research evaluates the goals and progress of ecosystem restoration, with the ultimate goal of improving the effectiveness of this emerging management tool.

The role of the private sector in rebuilding nature

Restoring degraded ecosystems is an urgent obligation globally, and the private sector has a critical role to play in this effort. Businesses have both significant resources and major incentives to restore nature, but many corporate environmental efforts are hampered by poor planning, a lack of evidence-based intervention models, inadequate monitoring and reporting, and “greenwashing” practices. This research evaluates the effectiveness of current business-led restoration programmes and assesses how corporate sustainability strategies should most effectively balance restoration alongside other nature-positive actions. By increasing the rigour with which corporate sustainability efforts are designed, we can maximise the benefits that they provide for nature and people worldwide.