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Our evidence briefings highlight research findings and their relevance in key policy areas. The views expressed in the evidence briefings are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the ESRC.
Evidence has revealed that the quality of education varies widely between and within countries. Educational standards can be negatively affected by a number of issues - with school management identified as one of the key factors.
Research suggests that higher education levels are associated with higher levels of political interest, social trust, health and wellbeing. Policies aimed at encouraging higher education should not only target the young, but also increase the uptake and positive valuation of education across the lifespan.
Victims of childhood bullying are at increased risk of poorer health, wealth and social relationships in adulthood. More effective intervention to prevent bullying could reduce long-term health and social costs for individuals and society.
Heating accounts for around a third of UK greenhouse gas emissions, and is a major challenge to meeting carbon reduction targets. Heating networks – which can supply heat from a number of central sources through a network of pipes with hot water – can be a cost-effective low-carbon alternative, while reducing energy costs for households, businesses and public sector buildings.
Ecosystem services such as drinking water, flood alleviation and recreational space are difficult to value in traditional economic terms, and in the past society has not been prepared to pay for the use of land toward these wider benefits. Researchers have examined the effectiveness of 'Payment for ecosystem services' schemes.
Price promotions are a key driver of grocery shopping behaviour and consumer spending. An analysis of the type of foods that are sold on price offers show promotional bias towards sugary, fatty and salty foods - and particularly ‘buy one get one free’ deals are heavily skewed towards unhealthy products.
High levels of inactivity are closely associated with low income, low education and local area deprivation. The large socio-economic gaps suggest that current health campaigns may not be reaching those who need them most.
Researchers have analysed how transport infrastructure improvement affects the economic performance of firms, workers, local areas and regions. The findings show that improved infrastructure has a positive impact on local areas in terms of business and employment - but not at the level of individual firms.
Fast-growing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can help economies to recover from recession, by creating new jobs and introducing innovations. A review of SME growth indicates a need for partnerships and a regional focus, and highlights the value of holistic support measures for sustained growth.
Basing substantial gas investment on the assumption of low prices and large unconventional reserves is a risky option. A preferable, lower risk option would be a ‘dash for smart gas’ – with targeted use of natural gas in areas where it offers the greatest impact in decarbonising the power sector.
