The Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) is the UK’s statutory adviser on nature conservation. It gives robust, scientifically based advice to the UK government, the UK’s devolved governments, and UK overseas territories and crown dependencies. It helps convert scientific research into advice for decision-makers to preserve nature for future generations to enjoy. Its expertise and dedication since 1991 have improved biodiversity and sustainability both in the UK and overseas. Nature restoration and preservation bring health benefits, uplift communities, and conserve the unique environments that shape the UK’s identity. The JNCC was established via the Environmental Protection Act 1990 (EPA). It began operations in 1991. The Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 (NERC) subsequently reshaped it and provided for it to form a company limited by guarantee to provide administrative and corporate support. As well as advising the government, the JNCC’s responsibilities include collaborating with volunteer groups to monitor biodiversity, identifying prospective marine protected areas and creating habitat maps.
