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School climate action guide and template

Biodiversity

A healthy ecosystem is one with a rich variety of habitat, plants, and species. This is what is meant by biodiversity. Healthy ecosystems help tackle climate change and help us be more resilient to the effects of climate change.

Biodiversity can be increased by:

  • expanding and re-greening spaces in your school; or
  • enhancing existing green spaces
  • Create meadows, orchards, ponds and hedges within their grounds
  • Install bat boxes and nest/habitat boxes for birds and bumblebees
  • Plant Alder buckthorn, Birds-foot trefoil and other food plants for butterfly caterpillars
  • Plant nectar-rich flora to provide food for bumblebees and other insects
  • Create loggeries and insect hotels
  • Plant native trees
  • Install and maintain ponds
  • Undertake species surveys and monitoring
  • Educate pupils about nature and wildlife conservation.

Increasing biodiversity within schools has many additional benefits. Green spaces offer learning opportunities like getting pupils and staff outside for lessons. Growing plants and being involved in gardening is proven to help confidence for students and increase skills and knowledge. Access to green space can also have a positive impact on the wellbeing and mental health of students and staff.