David John Eldridge

I am an ecologist working on global issues that affect plants, soils and humans in drylands, which cover 40% of Earth's surface. I have a PhD in soil ecology and have published widely on the management of drylands, particularly semi-arid woodlands in Australia and overseas. Over the past two decades my research has focused on four key areas: how native and exotic animals affect plants and soils, the impacts of woody plant expansion into grasslands, livestock grazing and its effects on environmental quality, and the importance of biological soil crusts for stable healthy ecosystems. I am an Editor of two international journals, run writing workshops for students, and am passionate about plain English speaking.