About SPUN
The Society for the Protection of Underground Networks (SPUN) is a global nonprofit dedicated to protecting the underground fungal networks that sustain life on Earth. By advancing research, mapping underground biodiversity, and advocating for conservation, SPUN is helping reshape how scientists, policymakers, and the public understand the critical role fungi play in healthy ecosystems.
The Challenge
SPUN was generating world-class scientific research, but translating complex ecological research into stories that would resonate beyond the scientific community required a strategic communications partner.
Following a successful initial campaign where 120+ pieces of coverage was secured, SPUN returned to Yulu in 2025 to support the launch of its Nature-published research and the ‘Underground Atlas’ – the world’s first global map of underground fungal biodiversity. Together, the goal was to increase global awareness of underground biodiversity, strengthen SPUN’s reputation as a scientific leader, and engage policymakers, researchers, funders, and environmental audiences around the world.
Our Approach
Yulu developed and executed an international communications strategy spanning North America and Europe. The work included:
- Strategic media relations
- Science and environmental communications
- Executive thought leadership
- Story development for science, climate, technology, and mainstream media
Impact
Across two international campaigns, Yulu helped establish SPUN as one of the world’s leading voices on underground biodiversity.
Highlights included:
→ Coverage in The New York Times, Nature, The Guardian, Smithsonian Magazine, Inside Climate News, Yahoo, MSN, and numerous additional international publications.
→ Successful global launch of the Underground Atlas, the world’s first map of underground fungal biodiversity.
→ Increased visibility among researchers, policymakers, conservation organizations, funders, and environmental leaders.
→ Strengthened SPUN’s position as a trusted authority advancing biodiversity conservation through science.
Why This Matters
Healthy underground fungal networks are essential to life on Earth. They connect plants, store carbon, improve soil health, cycle nutrients, and help ecosystems adapt to climate change. Despite their critical role in supporting biodiversity and food systems, these underground ecosystems have historically been overlooked in conservation efforts.
SPUN’s research is changing that. Through the Underground Atlas, scientists, governments, land managers, and conservation organizations now have a powerful new tool to identify biodiversity hotspots, inform conservation decisions, and better protect the ecosystems that sustain life above ground.
Services
- Environmental Public Relations
- Science Communications
- Media Relations
- Strategic Communications
- Executive Thought Leadership
- Communications Strategy
- Launch Communications
Looking to elevate your environmental story?
Whether you’re launching groundbreaking research, advancing climate solutions, or building support for biodiversity conservation, Yulu helps purpose-driven organizations translate complex science into compelling stories that build credibility, influence decision-makers, and inspire action.
Let’s talk.
