Why Nature Positive Matters for Universities
Universities are more than learning hubs; they are large landholders, research powerhouses and community influencers. The concept of a Nature Positive University recognises that institutions can move beyond merely reducing their environmental footprint to actively restoring ecosystems and enhancing biodiversity. For students, staff and the surrounding community, this shift translates into healthier campus environments, richer learning experiences and a stronger reputation for responsible stewardship.
Kent’s Path to Nature Positive
In December 2025, the University of Kent announced its pledge to become a Nature Positive University, joining a global network of higher‑education institutions committed to halting and reversing nature loss. The pledge is not a slogan; it is a structured plan that will be implemented across teaching, research, operations and supply chains.
Establishing a Biodiversity Baseline
Before setting targets, Kent will conduct a comprehensive assessment of campus biodiversity and the wider impact of its activities on global ecosystems. This baseline will cover:
- Species inventories across the 300‑acre Canterbury campus.
- Habitat mapping and ecological value scoring.
- Analysis of procurement, waste, energy use and travel patterns.
Data from the Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology (DICE) and long‑term monitoring programmes provide a solid foundation for this work.
Clear Targets and Action Plans
Once the baseline is in place, Kent will set measurable goals for the next 2–5 years. These include:
- Increasing native plant cover by 15%.
- Reducing herbicide use, including a trial ban on glyphosate.
- Implementing drought‑tolerant planting schemes that provide high pollen output.
- Enhancing woodland health through managed coppicing rotations.
Each target will be linked to a specific project, budget allocation and responsible team.
Key Actions and Projects
The Landscape and Biodiversity Strategy 2030 outlines several initiatives that will drive Kent’s Nature Positive journey:
Campus Habitat Enhancement
Projects such as the restoration of wetlands, the creation of pollinator corridors and the planting of native hedgerows will directly increase habitat quality. Students and staff can participate through volunteer days organised by the Sustainability Team.
Operational Improvements
The Estates Department is leading operational changes that reduce environmental impact:
- Adopting low‑impact landscaping techniques.
- Installing rainwater harvesting systems.
- Optimising heating and cooling to lower carbon emissions.
Supply Chain Accountability
Kent is expanding its footprint analysis to include suppliers. By setting biodiversity criteria for procurement, the university ensures that the products and services it purchases support, rather than harm, natural ecosystems.
How Students Can Get Involved
Students are central to the success of the Nature Positive pledge. Here are practical ways to contribute:
- Join the Biodiversity Working Group. The group welcomes student representatives to collaborate on projects and policy development.
- Participate in field surveys. DICE offers training sessions for students to conduct species counts and habitat assessments.
- Integrate sustainability into coursework. Many modules now include a sustainability component; students can propose projects that align with the university’s biodiversity goals.
- Volunteer for campus greening days. Check the Sustainability Team’s calendar for upcoming planting and maintenance events.
Measuring Success and Reporting Progress
Transparency is a core principle of the Nature Positive pledge. Kent will publish annual progress reports that detail:
- Baseline data and trend analyses.
- Progress against each target.
- Case studies of successful projects.
- Lessons learned and next steps.
These reports will be available on the university’s sustainability website and shared with stakeholders through newsletters and social media.
Next Steps for Prospective Students
If you are considering a degree that values environmental stewardship, the University of Kent offers a range of programmes that align with its Nature Positive vision:
- Undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Ecology, Environmental Science and Sustainability. These programmes incorporate fieldwork and research projects that contribute to campus biodiversity.
- Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology. Students can pursue research that directly supports the university’s restoration efforts.
- Interdisciplinary studies. Courses that combine biology, policy and technology provide a holistic understanding of nature conservation.
To learn more about the specific courses and how they integrate with the university’s sustainability agenda, visit the Biodiversity page or browse undergraduate programmes.
Take Action Today
Whether you are a student, a faculty member or a partner organisation, there are concrete steps you can take to support Kent’s Nature Positive journey:
- Explore the Landscape and Biodiversity Strategy 2030 to understand the university’s goals and how you can contribute.
- Book an Open Day to experience the campus’s green spaces firsthand.
- Apply for a sustainability‑focused degree and join a community that values nature.
- Share your own sustainability projects or ideas on the university’s Sustainability portal and collaborate with peers.
- Follow Kent on social media for updates on biodiversity projects and volunteer opportunities.
By engaging with these initiatives, you help the University of Kent move from a pledge to tangible, measurable outcomes that benefit both the local environment and the global community.
