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. 

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.