University of Leicester

Landscape Decisions

Supporting Smarter Landscape Decisions

Landscapes serve many functions, making it crucial that environmental policies support diverse needs while avoiding unintended consequences. The University of Leicester leads the Landscape Decisions programme, coordinating 59 research projects across the UK. Working with government departments, conservation groups and researchers, the team combines mathematical modelling, ecosystem analysis and social insights to build robust evidence. Their work helps farmers, policymakers and land managers make smarter, more sustainable choices about land use, ensuring decisions benefit both people and the environment.

 

Illustration of three students standing in a forest, examining a map together, surrounded by green foliage and tall trees under a bright, softly lit sky.
Illustration of a cow grazing in a field next to plants and flowers, with data charts and graphs integrated into the scene, and a ladybird perched on a blade of grass.
Illustration of a plane’s shadow cast over a patchwork of green farmland, with a farmer standing nearby and buildings and trees scattered across the landscape.

Illustrating Landscape Decisions

The Landscape Decisions team asked us to create an animation explaining how their research supports better land use and environmental policy across the UK. We designed vibrant, textured landscapes using expressive brushwork to bring the narrative to life, while keeping the character designs simple to maintain clarity and focus. The final animation makes complex ideas accessible and engaging, helping land users, policymakers and the public understand the importance of evidence-based decision-making in shaping sustainable, multi-functional landscapes.

 

 

Illustration of two people observing plants and sunflowers growing inside a glass dome, with bees flying around, set against a landscape with wind turbines and fields in the background.
Child kneeling inside a small wooden teepee-style shelter surrounded by tall grass, trees, and a wooden fence, under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds.
Illustration of a child lying on grass, drawing a picture on paper with crayons, surrounded by trees, with the text "A voice to influence decision making" above.