bird's-eye view photography of river

Ecology & Science

At AJEC, we are driven by an ecosystem-based approach that emphasizes the connection between people and the natural world. We take a holistic view of the environment, considering its ecological, cultural, social, recreational, and economic importance.

Our team of environmental experts is well-versed in both ecology and regulatory frameworks. We collaborate closely with clients to navigate the compliance process, ensuring that any environmental impacts are carefully assessed and managed through strategies like avoidance, mitigation, restoration, or offsetting.

Environmental Assessments & Reporting

  • AJEC has played a key role in shaping policy development related to environmental assessments, establishing frameworks that have become standards in the Middle East.

  • We not only contribute to these frameworks but also provide practical guidance to help clients meet these standards.

Our ecological solutions are designed to be practical, implementable, ecologically sensitive, and environmentally sustainable, ensuring that our clients can effectively address their environmental challenges while adhering to established guidelines.

Terrestrial Ecology

  • At AJEC, we offer comprehensive support in terrestrial ecology, providing expertise in the assessment, management, and restoration of terrestrial ecosystems.

  • Our services include conducting detailed habitat assessments, biodiversity surveys, and ecological impact evaluations to understand the intricate relationships between flora, fauna, and their environments.

  • With a focus on evidence-based practices, we utilize the latest scientific techniques and methodologies to develop sustainable management plans that enhance ecosystem health and resilience.

  • By collaborating closely with stakeholders, we ensure that our strategies are tailored to meet the specific needs of each project while promoting biodiversity conservation and ecological balance across diverse landscapes.

We can help with:

Flora Assessment

We offer comprehensive flora assessment services, including quadrat sampling, to accurately evaluate the composition, distribution, and abundance of plant species in a given area:

  • Quadrate sampling is a scientific method that involves examining small, representative plots to gain insights into the vegetation dynamics of larger ecosystems.

  • Our expert team can conduct detailed vegetation surveys, identify native and invasive species, and assess the health and diversity of plant communities.

  • This data is crucial for informing ecological restoration, conservation efforts, and environmental impact assessments.

Whether you need to monitor the success of habitat restoration, track changes in biodiversity, or meet regulatory requirements, we provide tailored solutions to suit your project's needs.

Mammal Assessment

We offer a wide range of mammal assessment services, utilizing various methods to gain comprehensive insights into ecosystems. Our services include:

Our integrated approach combines these methods to provide a comprehensive picture of both flora and fauna, contributing to conservation planning, habitat restoration, and environmental impact assessments. Whether your project requires a quick survey or an in-depth ecological study, we deliver tailored, science-based solutions to meet your objectives.

Bats Assessment

We specialize in bat assessments by utilizing advanced techniques such as installing full-spectrum bat detectors to monitor bat activity. Our bat assessment services are essential for:

  • Pre-development surveys to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

  • Biodiversity assessments to monitor the health and diversity of bat populations.

  • Conservation efforts to protect endangered bat species and their habitats.

  • Habitat restoration projects where understanding bat usage can influence management plans.

In addition to installing detectors, we analyse the data collected to provide detailed reports that inform decision-making and conservation planning.

Whether it's for environmental impact assessments, mitigation strategies, or habitat management, our bat detection services offer precise, science-driven insights to protect these vital nocturnal species.

Walkover Surveys

Camera Traps

Sherman Traps

We utilize full-spectrum bat detectors to monitor bat activity and presence in various habitats

Avifauna Assessment

We provide comprehensive avifauna (bird) assessment services, employing the latest and most effective techniques to accurately assess bird populations, species diversity, and habitat use. Our approach is tailored to meet the specific needs of each project and includes:

Walkover Surveys

Point Count Surveys

Vantage Point Surveys

In addition to traditional methods, we incorporate the latest technology, such as acoustic monitoring devices, to capture bird calls and drones for surveying inaccessible areas. These advanced tools enhance our ability to gather detailed and accurate data on bird species and their habitats.

Bird Nest Surveys

We offer specialized bird nest surveys, employing thorough search techniques to identify active nests in various habitats, including bushes, shrubs, and trees. This service is essential for ensuring compliance with wildlife protection regulations and minimizing disturbance to nesting birds during development or land management activities.

Our bird nest surveys involve:

  • Detailed Habitat Search

  • Species-Specific Knowledge

  • Timing Considerations

  • Legal Compliance and Conservation

  • Mitigation and Recommendations

Our bird nest surveys are designed to help clients meet their environmental and legal obligations while supporting the conservation of bird populations. Whether you’re conducting a development project, habitat management, or ecological restoration, our surveys provide essential data to safeguard nesting birds and contribute to the overall protection of avian biodiversity.

Reptiles Assessment

We provide comprehensive reptile assessments, employing a range of methods to accurately assess reptile presence, diversity, and habitat use. Our reptile surveys are designed to identify species in various environments, ensuring that ecological impacts are minimized during development or land management projects.

Our approach includes:

Walkover Surveys

Active Searches

Nocturnal Surveys

Indirect Evidence

Trapping & Monitoring

Insects Assessment

We provide thorough insect assessments, utilizing a variety of techniques to assess the diversity, abundance, and ecological significance of insect populations in a given area. Our insect surveys are designed to capture a wide range of insect species, ensuring comprehensive data collection for ecological studies, environmental impact assessments, or conservation projects.

Our methods include:

Pitfall Traps

Malaise Traps

Sweep Netting

Light Trapping

Beating & Shaking

Targeted Sampling for Pollinators

Assessment of Tree Translocation

We offer comprehensive assessment and translocation services for native trees to ensure their protection and preservation during construction or development projects.

Our expertise in this area helps minimize ecological impacts while allowing for continued development in an environmentally responsible manner.

Here’s how we approach the assessment and translocation of native trees:

  • Pre-Construction Tree Assessment

  • Translocation Feasibility Study

  • Detailed Tree Translocation Plan

  • Translocation Execution

  • Post-Translocation Monitoring and Maintenance

a lone tree in the middle of a desert
a lone tree in the middle of a desert

Marine Ecology

  • We offer comprehensive Marine Ecology services aimed at understanding and preserving the intricate ecosystems of our oceans and coastal areas.

  • Our team of marine ecologists employs advanced methodologies to assess the health and biodiversity of marine environments, including habitat mapping, species surveys, and ecological monitoring.

  • We focus on the interactions between marine organisms and their habitats, providing insights into the impacts of human activities, climate change, and pollution on marine ecosystems.

  • Through tailored assessments and research, we help clients develop effective management strategies that promote sustainable practices, enhance marine biodiversity, and protect vital resources for future generations.

  • Whether it’s for development projects, conservation efforts, or regulatory compliance, we are dedicated to supporting the health and resilience of marine environments.

Epi-benthic Ecology

Epi-benthic Ecology surveys designed to assess and monitor the health and biodiversity of critical marine habitats, including coral reefs, seagrass beds, and various benthic environments. Our team employs state-of-the-art techniques and equipment to gather detailed ecological data, enabling effective management and conservation efforts. Here’s how we can assist you with these surveys:

  • Survey Planning and Design

  • Advanced Data Collection Techniques

    - Drop-down Cameras

    - Diving Surveys

    - Photography and Videography

  • Comprehensive Data Analysis

Plankton Sampling & Analysis

Plankton Sampling and Analysis is a critical component of aquatic ecology, providing essential insights into the health and dynamics of marine and freshwater ecosystems.

  • Our comprehensive plankton sampling services involve collecting water samples using specialized nets or traps to capture both phytoplankton (plant-like organisms) and zooplankton (animal-like organisms).

  • We analyse these samples in the laboratory to identify species composition, abundance, and biomass, which are vital indicators of ecosystem health and productivity.

  • Through detailed data analysis, we can assess nutrient cycling, food web dynamics, and the impacts of environmental changes, such as pollution and climate change.

  • By providing accurate and timely information on plankton populations, we support effective management and conservation strategies for aquatic environments, helping to ensure the sustainability of these vital ecosystems.

Macro-benthic Infauna Sampling & Analysis

Macro-benthic infauna sampling and analysis involves the collection and examination of small aquatic organisms living within sediment layers on the seafloor, which play a crucial role in marine and freshwater ecosystems.

  • This process typically includes deploying specialized sampling techniques, such as grab samplers or core samplers, to gather sediment samples from various habitats.

  • Once collected, the samples are processed in the laboratory to identify and quantify the diverse infaunal species present, allowing researchers to assess the ecological health of aquatic environments.

  • By analysing the composition and abundance of macro-benthic infauna, scientists can infer water quality conditions, sediment stability, and overall ecosystem function.

  • This valuable information supports environmental management and restoration efforts, helping to ensure the sustainability of aquatic habitats.

Marine Mammal, Birds & Reptiles Monitoring

Our Marine Mammal, Birds, and Reptiles Monitoring services are designed to assess and protect the diverse wildlife that inhabits our coastal and marine environments.

  • Through a combination of field surveys, observational studies, and the latest tracking technologies, we gather critical data on species distribution, population dynamics, and habitat use.

  • Our dedicated team employs methods such as boat-based surveys for marine mammals, aerial surveys for seabirds, and ground-based monitoring for reptile populations, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of these ecosystems.

  • This monitoring not only aids in identifying conservation priorities but also supports the development of effective management strategies to mitigate human impacts, enhance biodiversity, and promote the overall health of marine and coastal habitats.

green coral reef under water
green coral reef under water
white starfish on sand underwater during daytime
white starfish on sand underwater during daytime
A seagull sitting on a rock near the ocean
A seagull sitting on a rock near the ocean

Contaminated Land

  • AJEC’s specialists in the investigation and management of contaminated soil play a crucial role in preventing harmful substances from affecting workers, communities, future landowners, and the surrounding environment.

  • If a site has been previously utilized for industrial activities or other operations that may have caused ground contamination, it is highly likely that an investigation will be necessary to assess and address any potential risks.

Restoration Planning

  • AJEC's foundational vision is to co-create thriving ecosystems for future generations. Central to this mission is our commitment to restoring degraded environments.

  • Through our catchment services, we focus on rehabilitating damaged areas, enhancing biodiversity, and improving water quality.

  • Our efforts aim to restore equilibrium in these ecosystems.

  • We achieve this by developing flexible engineering and scientific solutions tailored to address the challenges faced by our natural environments.

Integrated Catchment Management

  • Catchments are intricate networks of variables, and effective planning for their future requires an understanding of what makes each catchment unique.

  • Our integrated catchment planning approach considers the interconnections within ecosystems and the relationships between these ecosystems and people, encompassing cultural, social, recreational, and economic values.

  • By addressing land use, water quality, and biodiversity in a holistic manner, we develop comprehensive catchment plans that promote the overall health of these areas, ensuring sustainable outcomes for future generations.

Environmental Policy

  • Given the numerous variables in our environment, the policies designed to protect and restore it can be equally complex.

  • AJEC not only interprets environmental policies but also consults on and provides data that informs these policies as independent experts.

  • Our consulting work gives us valuable insights into how to interpret and implement national and local government policies, enabling us to assist our clients in understanding the implications for their projects, assets, and organizations.