Durham University, United Kingdom

Enhancing biodiversity at Durham

Durham University has developed a comprehensive Biodiversity Strategy, with a target to achieve Biodiversity Net Gain by 2032. Our ambitious strategy has already delivered results, from identifying seven species of moth rarely recorded in 25 years, trialling different approaches to wildflower meadows, working to re-introduce Black Poplar, the rarest tree in the UK, and achieving ‘Gold’ accreditation from Hedgehog Friendly Campus. 

The development of the strategy has seen a collaboration between the Estates & Facilities Directorate and the Department of Biosciences, with three summer internships to develop our baseline and action plan, funded by Estates. We have also identified opportunities for partnership, working with the Wear River’s Trust to promote awareness of invasive species to local landowners.

Our strategy has highlighted the species richness of our estate, with 983 different plants, birds, mammals and insects identified. We have shared key findings on the iNaturalist platform and delivered talks to key stakeholders and schools across County Durham. 

What the Judges Thought

A very impressive and comprehensive biodiversity strategy, showing demonstrable biodiversity benefits, collaborative research opportunities and engagement with local NGOs and regional initiatives. This will be an exemplar strategy for others to follow as they develop biodiversity strategies. 

What it Means to Win

“Preserving biodiversity ranges from our Botanic Garden, to volunteering and outreach programmes with local schools. We are one of the founder members of the Nature Positive Universities Network. Winning this award would inspire our communities to strive towards a common goal of preserving our beautiful environment for future generations to enjoy.”

Professor Karen O’Brien, Vice-Chancellor and Warden 

Top 3 Learnings

1. We benefitted from using in-house expertise from our Department of Biosciences.
2. We found that biodiversity can help to support other strategies, especially health and wellbeing.
3. Local organisations and groups can share their expertise to help you develop your strategy.