MARINE AND ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCE CONSERVATION CONSULTANTS LIMITED

Marine and Environmental Resource Conservation Consultants (MERC) is a specialist ecological consultancy that delivers marine, coastal and terrestrial environmental services to clients in Ireland, across Europe and worldwide. Founded in 2004, the firm brings together a team of highly experienced natural scientists who combine extensive research expertise with practical field knowledge to support sustainable development and conservation outcomes.

MERC's core specialisations include detailed surveys, mapping and assessment of marine and coastal habitats, as well as terrestrial ecological investigations required for planning and regulatory compliance. The consultancy also offers dedicated advice for renewable-energy projects, particularly wind and wave initiatives, helping developers navigate the environmental considerations essential to harnessing Ireland's abundant marine energy potential. A notable collaborative effort is the Marine Energy Environmental Research (MEER) programme, formed with the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group and ANIAR Ecology to address research gaps for the emerging wave-energy sector while safeguarding marine biodiversity.

Operating from Galway, MERC works closely with a diverse client base-from government bodies and energy developers to conservation organisations-providing scientifically robust solutions that balance development ambitions with the long-term health of Ireland's marine and terrestrial ecosystems.