ĢƵ

Nature Positive University

Become a Nature Positive University

In 2022, ĢƵ joined hundreds of universities in signing the , a commitment to start a nature-positive journey by establishing a biodiversity baseline, deciding on targets, taking action and reporting annually. Subsequently, in 2023, ĢƵ launched its inaugural Biodiversity Plan, which marked a milestone in the University’s commitment to biodiversity. The plan sets out the University’s goals to monitor, protect and enhance biodiversity.

Read ĢƵ's Biodiversity Plan

Actions to foster biodiversity

By 2030, ĢƵ aims to manage 30% of its green space to foster biodiversity. To do so, the University will increasingly rely on a differentiated space management approach for its exterior spaces. Differentiated management reallocates landscaping efforts to optimize the maintenance of green spaces in a manner that is appropriate to each space’s use.

This includes, for example:

  • Adapting mowing frequency
  • Targeted invasive species control
  • Added planting

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifies a university as Nature Positive?

A Nature Positive University is committed to halting its negative impact on ecosystems and enhancing its overall positive effect on nature through restorative actions. The criteria for a university to be considered Nature Positive may differ depending on its capacity and ambition, however the core goal remains the same: to contribute meaningfully to nature conservation and restoration. To explore more about what it takes to be a nature positive university check out their website

How can I find out more about ĢƵ’s biodiversity?

By paying close attention to the different forms of life present around you, no matter how small or large, you will find that biodiversity is everywhere. To support your exploration of Downtown Campus, Macdonald Campus, the or the Morgan Arboretum, we recommend downloading a biodiversity identification app like You will be able to record your own biodiversity observations and consult previous sightings. If you visit the Morgan Arboretum, try using the scavenger hunts available (Fall and Winter versions) to enrich your experience! In addition, you can review the results of the and look forward to ĢƵ’s upcoming Biodiversity Atlas, an interactive repository of ĢƵ’s biodiversity baseline.

What do we mean by “green spaces managed to foster biodiversity”?

We define biodiversity spaces as green spaces that welcome a large proportion of indigenous species, pollinators and/or incorporate three layers of vegetation cover (ground cover, shrub and canopy), including thematic gardens and permaculture or urban agriculture spaces. We consider green spaces to be ‘managed to foster biodiversity’ when their maintenance practices are altered to achieve these criteria.

Where can I track ĢƵ’s progress towards its objectives?

You will soon be able to track ĢƵ’s progress towards its objectives through the upcoming Biodiversity Atlas and, starting at the end of 2025, by consulting ĢƵ’s Sustainability Annual Report.

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