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About us
  1. Queen Mary University of London
  2. About us
  3. Sustainability
  4. Sustainable Campus
  5. Biodiversity and Ecological Enhancement

Biodiversity and Ecological Enhancement

We are working to embed biodiversity enhancement and ecological conservation into all refurbishment and new build projects as well as apply regenerative horticulture practices in our grounds management.

Biodiversity maintains a functional environment as well as resource for food, shelter, clothing and other materials. Our economy relies on biodiversity since it provides renewable economic resources and ecosystem services, medical and scientific benefits, and is priceless in term of cultural and aesthetic values. In response to the fact over 58% of global species that have been lost and approximately 30% of UK species becoming extinct since 1970, we are actively promoting the benefits of biodiversity conservation and enhancement.

The allotments are an important area of our Mile End Campus, located behind the Village Shop. This garden and allotment plots were constructed to provide opportunities for students, staff, and the wider community (including local schools) to engage with and learn more about the biodiversity and ecological systems. ​In addition we have planted a community orchard, created a number of bug hotels and hedgehog houses, and are building community raised vegetable beds.

The Figure below provide an overview of the variety of native plants that are available within our medicinal and sensory garden.

A description of plants from the medicinal and sensory garden
A description of plants from the medicinal and sensory garden

These sensory plant species appeal to the five senses of: touch, sight, taste, smell, and sound. The medicinal plants that are grown across this garden have historically been used in medicine. These medicinal plants were cultivated to give our students, staff, and visitors an insight into the medicinal value of some plants. 

One of the plots within our allotment has been set aside to be used by our Nursery for educational purposes, and some other plots are available for research by request. We are actively identifying opportunities for biodiversity conservation and enhancement.

The Students' Union runs regular volunteering sessions in the allotments and at Regent's Canal, doing gardening activities and removing litter from the canal. These events are open to students and staff.

The allotments and sensory garden are temporarily closed for refurbishment.

Commitments: Biodiversity and Ecological Enhancement

  • We will continue to engage with and support the London Borough of Tower Hamlets to enhance biodiversity across the borough.
  • We will actively explore opportunities to increase the number of native species across our Mile End Campus.
  • We will continue to improve the biodiversity of the Regent's Canal (an integral aspect of our Mile End campus) alongside the development of our new Business School.
  • We will continue to support the Regent's Canal’s clean-up events coordinated by the Students' Union.

If you would like more information, please email sustainability@qmul.ac.uk 

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