EPA Research Impact Case Study: Building Capability
Summary: EPA Research 2030 is designed to be agile, responsive, and flexible, and aims to deliver timely and impactful research to support policy and decision making, and to address knowledge gaps in existing and emerging environmental pressures. The EPA Research Impact Case Studies provide examples and insights from EPA-funded projects and the impact they have achieved.
Impact Summary
- Developed Capability: Trained and developed researchers in the area of Catchment Management in Ireland, with project members going on to join the staff of national implementing Agencies and Government Departments.
Strengthened Evidence Base: Advanced the conceptual understanding of hydrological and contaminant transport pathways in Irish catchments, including the role of artificial drainage and transition zones. This informed EPA’s Water Framework Directive (WFD) implementation.
Developed Innovative Decision-Support Tools: Delivered catchment management support tools which have supported local authorities, researchers and catchment managers in implementing targeted, evidence-based water quality actions.