Surrey Research Park welcomes the Prince of Wales to showcase environmental innovation

Our member, Surrey Research Park (UK), recently received a visit from The Prince of Wales. He visited the Park to champion environmental innovation at NatureMetrics, a finalist in 2024’s prestigious Earthshot Prize. The company’s innovative technology enables organisations to measure and report on their impact on nature, providing critical data to better protect and sustain ecosystems.  

Prince William began his visit with a live demonstration of eDNA collection from one of Surrey Research Park’s biodiversity-rich ponds – a haven for freshwater fish and wildfowl. Joining him on the visit was NatureMetrics founder Kat Bruce, as well as a scientist and local school children.  The Prince of Wales’ visit comes at a pivotal moment for the company, which recently secured £20 million ($25 million) in Series B investment, supported by The Earthshot Prize’s investment platform Launchpad.   

Commenting on the visit, Caroline Fleming, Director of the Surrey Innovation District ecosystem at the University of Surrey, said: “It’s always exciting to welcome a member of the royal family to Surrey Research Park, and this visit was particularly special as it not only highlights the expertise of businesses at the Park but also the incredible biodiversity here. It’s the perfect backdrop to NatureMetrics’ work, which exemplifies innovation to identify and protect habitats and safeguard the health of our planet.” 

As part of Surrey Research Park’s dynamic innovation ecosystem, NatureMetrics has played an active role in knowledge-sharing and community engagement. The company has contributed its environmental expertise to the Park’s Environmental, Sustainability, and Governance (ESG) group, supporting fellow tenants in their sustainability initiatives and been active in promoting career and learning opportunities for students. 

Surrey Research Park highlights innovative companies like NatureMetrics through initiatives like a panel discussion for the Surrey Women’s Entrepreneurship Network, which is chaired by them, and the "Women of Surrey Research Park" campaign. These efforts, featuring leaders from NatureMetrics including CEO Dimple Patel and Chief Scientific Officer Juliet Jones, showcase Surrey Research Park’s commitment to supporting talent, diversity, and innovation.