Within the context of a university or college, biodiversity can make the world of difference to the environment in which we teach, learn and work. Physical and mental health outcomes of green space and initiatives play a role in our sense of self and institutional culture and ambitions- it may also influence retention and recruitment of students and staff.
Biological diversity encompasses the variation of life on earth and in its simplest form, it is measured by the number and variety of species in an area. Globally, the rate of loss is recognisably a serious concern that requires concerted international action to prevent an irreversible pattern of ecological damage. Whilst the science may feel abstract and distant to some roles within the sector, it truly effects us all.
If you would like to learn more about managing biodiversity at your institution then why not view our Biodiversity Guide. This practical guide is supported by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Global Universities Partnership on Environment and Sustainability (GUPES).
To connect with like-minded EAUC Members, join the EAUC's Biodiversity Community of Practice. This group is for EAUC members only.
Two videos from Ellen MacArthur Foundation about the biologist and ecologist at the design table. Products and processes which use nature as mentor, model and measure.
A presentation on the benefits of worm digesters including site requirements, critical factors, types of digesters, warming tubes and the vermicomposting process.
The Government's Behavioural Insights Team has published a report setting out how they can use behavioural insights to help people save energy and money.
The Oxford Brooks environmental report 2005 which covers the entire university and draws together examples of good environmental practice/behaviour.
The introduction of the Hazardous Waste Directive in July 2005 brough new obligations for sites producing 200kg of hazardous waste each year
A case study from the University of Warwick on the investment of new halls of residence and the integration of sustainability within them.
A case study from the University of East Anglia about their travel plan which has delivered a range of initiatives leading to car use being reduced by 12%.
The University of Aberdeen is working with the Creative Waste Exchange to divert material from landfill to community groups and other organisations such as schools that are able...
A guide to promote improved biodiversity management and good practice in the HE sector based on a project by HEFCE.
A case study about Queen Margaret University’s Corstorphine Campus which was relocated and how it embraced the challenge to deliver the most sustainable campus in the UK.
The modern, eco-friendly library represents a significant investment in the future of their students. The building, in the centre of the campus, is designed to be conductive...
A case study of Elmwood College which used the golf course and farm as living/working educational resources to increase environmental awareness.
After 10 years of research and development with Stafford-based company Talbott's Heating Ltd, the BG100 biomass generator began testing at Harper Adams in December 2005
A short talk on the environmental values of urban green walls focusing on the animal biodiversity, air quality, building insulation (thermal, noise and light) and human well-being.
The first Biodiversity Action Plan from the University of Brighton which lead to the development of actions and a programme of events set to improve biodiversity across campuses.
UK National Ecosystem Assessment: Synthesis of the Key Findings is the first analysis of the UK natural environment in terms of the benefits it provides to society and...
Elmwood College has adopted an innovative approach for meeting the requirements of the ISO14001 Environmental Management Standard. It uses curriculum as a mechanism for...
A case study about biodiversity enhancement activities at the University of Exeter.
ThinkBIG: How and why landscape-scale conservation benefits wildlife, people and the wider economy report sets out why a move towards a landscape-scale approach is needed
A briefing document prepared by ECUS Environmental Consultants (October 2011) which discusses the proposed revisions to ISO14001: 2004 Environmental Management Standard.
YouthXchange Guidebook on Climate Change and Lifestyles, published by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the United Nations...
Biodiversity 2020: sets out the strategic direction for the next decade for England’s biodiversity policy on land (including rivers and lakes) and at sea.
A comprehensive presentation on how to understand, produce, plan and implement biodiversity whilst engaging key groups in the institution.
EAUC Member responses to a request for information to help plan the introduction of bee hives on a city centre campus.
Examples of how four institutions manage biodiversity on their campus.
DEFRA's web pages on biodiversity which includes information about protecting biodiversity and ecosystems at home and abroad
A self assessment toolkit developed to promote consistent good-practice in Estates Management by enabling a good-practice standard
A case study from Harper Adams University regarding the introduction of alternative method of energy: photovoltaics.
A EAUC Member only resource which provides a 20 minute 'introduction to sustainability' elearning module to use as an engagement tool.