In recent years, several initiatives have been taken to this end, which have mainly contributed to creating support and awareness. However, because of the urgency, a structural approach is needed. A biodiversity policy plan was drawn up in 2020. The biodiversity project group, with broad representation from Radboud University and Radboudumc, draws up an annual programme and ensures structural implementation of the measures.
Biodiversity plan for the campus
The decline in biodiversity and the related climate problems are so serious that this is considered a broad social problem. Radboud University, together with the Radboudumc, is therefore working on restoring the biodiversity of the campus.
Goals
The biodiversity policy is in line with one of the pillars of the joint sustainability ambition of Radboud University and Radboudumc: creating a healthy environment. The main goals are:
Biodiversity restoration
The aim for the next 10 years is to develop the campus in such a way as to create favourable conditions for biodiversity restoration. Measures aim to naturally provide sufficient food, moisture, safety and reproductive opportunities for the various species on our site, appropriate to the ecosystem of the campus and surrounding natural areas.
Climate adaptation
Radboud University also wants to counter the negative effects of climate change, this is called climate adaptation. Natural adaptations to the grounds can prevent excessive drought, heat and flooding. The forest on Houtlaan, for example, will then be better protected against periods of severe drought and fire risk.
Nature-inclusive building
An objective is also to design and use the campus in such a way that this too leads to strengthening biodiversity. Radboud University wants to build nature-inclusively. Buildings will have more nesting opportunities for insects, birds and mammals such as bats. Damage caused by construction will be 100% compensated. The ultimate aim is to use no raw materials at all that are harmful to humans and animals.
Interaction between human and nature
Sometimes we seem to forget that we humans are part of nature and this is perhaps the main cause of the issues surrounding biodiversity and climate change. In its communication, Radboud University will therefore pay specific attention to the interaction between humans and their natural environment.
Monitoring
To measure the effectiveness of the policy measures, various measuring instruments will be used. Such as a dashboard, the Biodiversity Yardstick (IPC/Green Space) and inventories of plant and animal species by students and university staff.
Contact information
- Organizational unit
- Campus & Facilities
- Theme
- Sustainability