Elliot Colley joined Forest Research in December 2022. Prior to joining FR, Elliot obtained his MSc in Behavioural Science from Durham University in 2021, having previously gained a bachelor’s degree in Human Geography from Aberystwyth University in 2020.

Elliot’s MSc dissertation explored the impacts of primed values on the uptake of pro-environmental behaviours within the farming community in the UK. His research methodology incorporated a comparative analysis of competing values, measuring the impact these had on intent to engage in sustainable land management practices. Elliot is keen to contribute to research that builds effective policy, especially in meeting the UK’s net-zero targets. His academic research aimed to improve communication strategies through establishing pathways to encourage self-transcendent behaviours.

At Forest Research, Elliot is incorporating his expertise across a range of qualitative and quantitative research methods to improve public engagement with urban treescapes, assess the social dimensions of tree planting, and improve and protect the state of the UK’s trees and plants.