University of Worcester

Protecting and enhancing biodiversity at the University of Worcester for over a decade

We are committed to protecting and enhancing biodiversity, contributing to local and global efforts to address the biodiversity crisis. In 2009 the University of Worcester established a collaborative group to monitor, record and enhance the biodiversity of the University’s grounds. It sought to promote biodiversity through learning, research and voluntary activities for staff, students, and the local community. Membership of the Strategic Biodiversity Management Group is drawn from both internal (grounds’ staff, academics, and students) and external stakeholders. Our Biodiversity Action Plan has engaged the local community with biodiversity enhancement as well as providing an effective device for establishing and reviewing targets and advising the University senior leadership.

The initiative is an overall strategy to protect and enhance biodiversity on the university grounds and beyond. We have approached this by introducing policies, guidelines, and management actions.  We have introduced commitments to measure, report and compensate for any damage to biodiversity caused by the university’s operations.

What the Judges Thought

The University of Worcester has taken a robust data-driven approach to monitoring progress towards nature-related outcomes. Judges were impressed with the inclusive, stakeholder-led approach to change and implementation.

What it Means to Win

“The University is very proud to win this Award. We have been working to embed sustainability in our daily work for nearly two decades, taking initiatives large and small, individual and as a community. Systematically reporting, working in partnership and inclusively are all crucial to achieving the progress we need.”

Professor David Green CBE DL, Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive

Top 3 Learnings

1. Our projects set a benchmark for collaborative working, engaging research, teaching, grounds management and working with local communities. 
2. Bringing together staff and students from across the University that all have different reasons for wanting to boost biodiversity; from making space for wildlife, addressing the climate crisis, to promoting good mental health.
3. We have inspired others to make a difference in the wider community and at home.