Met Office Contributes £56 Billion to UK Economy

Met Office Contributes £56 Billion to UK Economy

An independent economic study has revealed that the Met Office is projected to deliver £56 billion in benefits to the UK economy over the next decade. This translates to a return of nearly £19 for every £1 of public investment, highlighting the significant economic value the Met Office provides to the UK.

The increasing importance of accurate, timely weather and climate information for government, industry, and the public has never been more evident.

Science Minister Lord Vallance stated: “This report offers compelling evidence that the Met Office will contribute to economic growth over the next decade. From providing early warnings about extreme weather to offering insights into the effects of climate change, the Met Office’s meteorological services enable businesses, emergency responders, and the public to make informed decisions, ensuring safety and success.”

The report underscores the Met Office’s role as both a leader in scientific excellence and a driver of economic growth. The study identified five key areas where the Met Office has a broad impact:

  • Weather forecasts, warnings, and advice for the public, government, and civil contingency groups, along with specialized data like space weather forecasts and dispersion modelling.
  • Climate projections and services that support industries and government in mitigating and adapting to climate change.
  • Weather and climate services tailored to industries such as aviation, energy, water, and transport.
  • Scientific research, technological innovation, and partnerships that advance weather and climate science.
  • International collaborations and public engagement that build global understanding of weather and climate.

Met Office Chief Executive Penny Endersby emphasized: “Weather and climate influence every part of national life, and this independent research highlights the significant value we provide to the UK. We take pride in delivering such a high return on investment and will continue enhancing our capabilities to help people stay safe and thrive.”

The Met Office, the UK’s national weather and climate service, serves over 1,200 public and private sector clients, generating more than £330 million in revenue annually. It enjoys high levels of trust, with 97% of emergency responders and 83% of the public relying on its information.

Alan Lovell, Chair of the Environment Agency, commented: “With climate change, timely and reliable weather data is essential. This research underlines the Met Office’s value in supporting communities across the UK, particularly in providing flood warnings and enhancing national resilience through our partnership.”

The study, conducted by London Economics, is part of the government’s efforts to ensure value for money from taxpayer-funded services. The report concluded that for every £1 of public funding, the Met Office delivers £18.80 in economic value, alongside substantial non-monetized benefits. Dr. Charlotte Duke, Partner at London Economics, noted: “The study advances our understanding of how the Met Office’s sophisticated services translate into economic gains for the UK.”

As the demand for its services grows, the Met Office continues to play a crucial role in both UK and global scientific and economic progress. Combining world-class expertise and innovation, the Met Office remains central to meeting the evolving needs of government, industry, and citizens today and in the future.

These findings emphasize the importance of sustained investment in the Met Office, ensuring its leadership in weather and climate science on both national and international stages.