The University of Plymouth
May
Biodiversity Report
University of Plymouth
BIODIVERSITY POLICY 2011
2011
1
The University of Plymouth
Foreword
The term “biodiversity” refers to the totality of genes, species, and ecosystems
in a region. Areas with dense and rich biodiversity increase ecosystem
productivity, ensuring more resistant ecological sustainability and healthy
natural environments. A healthy biodiversity provides a number of ‘ecosystem
services’ (such as nutrient storage and pollution absorption) and ‘biological
resources’ (such as food and future resources). As well as ecological benefits,
there are social benefits too, through offering research, education and
recreation. However, biodiversity is under threat due to human activities,
namely pollution and development. This results in the number of species
declining and the loss of habitats. Therefore, there is ever-increasing pressure
to increase biodiversity as it comes in to the forefront of political agendas and
policies.
University of Plymouth is an intensely occupied compact urban campus, with
dense development on one main site. This challenges the introduction of
biodiversity. Because of this, biodiversity has to be carefully considered to
ensure the maximum social, environmental and economic benefits can be
achieved. There is one outdated biodiversity species count from 2005, which
counted 181 species on campus and a further 55 in the student village site. A
full list of these species can be seen in Appendix A.
Executive Summary
Problem
-
-
The University of Plymouth campus is under biodiversity pressure since
the past years have seen increased development on Greenfield spaces.
This has happened since the late Professor Roland Levinsky began a
policy of centralising its campus activities in Plymouth, thus seeing the
development of the Roland Levinsky, Rolle, and Francis Drake Halls of
Residence buildings.
There is a perceived need to increase biodiversity awareness and
education on campus.
Strategy
-
-
-
The primary recommendation from this policy is for the Biodiversity
Steering Group outlined to meet as soon as possible to discuss the
feasibility of the operational guidance laid out in this document.
This policy outlines strategies and operational guidance, within the areas
of physical infrastructure, species selection, behavioural change &
education, and campus developments.
The campus species list shall be renewed and updated, mapped, and
monitored in order to ensure biodiversity is being maintained on campus.
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The University of Plymouth
Biodiversity at the University
University Statement
The University of Plymouth recognises that biodiversity is of utmost
importance in social, economic and environmental factors, but also well being
and understanding the value of nature. As the university has a focus on
sustainable development, through research and education, biodiversity thus
has to be fully incorporated into both the community’s and student’s learning
and experience.
Report Aims
-
To primary aim is to set up a Biodiversity Steering Group to
introduce a biodiversity policy. The remit of the steering group will
be to carry out the following aims.
-
The university will aim to maximise biodiversity on campus wherever
possible, and find opportunities to create green environments by a variety
of measures stated below and complying with EU and UK legislation
(found at http://europa.eu/pol/env/index_en.htm).
-
Environmental education, and education for sustainable development
should be incorporated in to the development of biodiversity, by providing
opportunities for students and the local community to learn about this
topic.
-
The biodiversity should provide not only environmental benefits, but also
socio-economic benefits, and wellbeing. All of which should enhance the
student experience, by promoting a recreational resource.
-
Biodiversity practices should be continually incorporated in to development
strategies, so the university acts as a beacon for sustainable development,
inspiring both students and the community.
-
The university should continue to minimise impacts outside of the estate
through sustainable procurement of materials to retain biodiversity
elsewhere.
.
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The University of Plymouth
Current Situation
The University of Plymouth campus currently has limited green space, due to
it being a compact campus in the city centre. However, they key areas of
biodiversity are within Drakes Garden, and the gardens behind Portland
Villas. Between the buildings, there are small patches of grassland, hedges, a
limited number of trees planted wherever possible, as well as planters.
The most recent biodiversity survey was conducted in 2005, and this totalled
181 plant species, within Drakes Garden, the campus walls, and trees
planted. There were also a further 55 species within the Student Village site
(see Appendix A). However, since 2005, the campus has undergone a
considerable amount of development, which results in these figures being
inaccurate.
There are approximately 15 Tree Preservation Orders, all of which along
Portland Villas, and under the responsibility of the Building Maintenance
Manager, in Estates and Facilities Management (E&FM).
The campus grounds are maintained by Planscape, an external organisation,
with a contract with £51,500 per annum. Their contract outlines the role and
responsibility of maintaining the campus grounds
5 Year Biodiversity Plan – Terms of Reference
By summer 2016, this biodiversity policy ensures the following changes are
undertaken:
-
A full list of the campus species list will be revised and mapped on
Geographical Information Systems (GIS) software using the Student
Projects Programme to monitor change.
-
The list shall then be monitored to ensure biodiversity is being sustained.
The target is to manage existing plant and animal life on campus, and look
to maintain them following the operational guidance.
-
The enhancement of biodiversity will predominantly come from large
campus developments (Drakes Reservoir and Garden). Therefore
biodiversity within these areas will be of utmost importance, and carefully
designed to avoid the loss of current biodiversity and ensure they get
maximum
potential
as
a
new
biodiversity
resource.
-
The Office for Procurement and Sustainability (OPS) should continually
work with a variety of university and community. These groups should aim
to monitor and improve the biodiversity on campus.
-
In the long term, the university will aim to promote a campus rich in
biodiversity, being well maintained and monitored, and used by students
and the community in for education and campus experience.
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The University of Plymouth
Strategies, Operational Guidance and Recommendations
Once set up, the Biodiversity Steering Group should consider the feasibility of
implementing the following strategies and operations.
Physical Infrastructure
Bird and bat boxes should be positioned wherever possible. They are
technically feasible; however selected sites should take place in proximity to
natural flora, and close to food sources. Recommended areas include the
trees along Portland Villas. See Appendix B for more information on bird
boxes.
Planters are located in several areas around campus for socio-economic and
environmental uses. These are very beneficial, and should continue to be
used wherever possible. The species of plants within them should include
native and threatened species. See Appendix C for more information on
planters.
Hanging baskets, like planters, should be used to full potential around
campus, especially in summer months when they are most aesthetically
pleasing. Infrastructure for hanging baskets should be introduced to buildings
and lampposts which are suitable for this. In other areas, hanging baskets
from freestanding frames should be investigated.
Green roofs should be encouraged wherever possible, and trialled with
available grants. Although the majority of buildings on campus are not
designed for roof gardens due to their stability and infrastructure, this should
be considered for any future developments on campus. The university should
thus investigate a feasibility study into the possibility of green roofs, and the
status of the grant for Fitzroy building. There are a number of social,
environmental and economic benefits (see Appendix D).
Vertical gardening should be promoted through climber plants along building
walls where the infrastructure is in place, or can be put in place. This has
been identified to be along the east of Scott building, but can also be situated
indoors, in well lit areas such as in Portland Square. A study should thus be
carried out regarding the feasibility of this. Climber plants generally require
little formal maintenance to thrive and quickly cover areas. See Appendix E
for more information on vertical gardening.
Small timber stacks should be created by leaving dead wood in piles. This
should be implemented wherever possible in sheltered regions, to increase
small insect and animal life.
Insect boxes should be constructed with bamboo tubes to provide habitats
and be used for educational uses.
Biodiversity should be indoors, through investing in indoor plants for offices
and communal areas. They have a number of benefits, which include
BIODIVERSITY POLICY 2011
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The University of Plymouth
removing harmful contaminants from the air, controlling humidity, increasing
positive feelings, and reducing anxiety anger and stress, as well as sound and
Carbon Dioxide. It also teaches the maintenance of personal areas.
Research should be investigated into a food waste composter, due to the
current food waste being placed in a kitchen disposer, causing detrimental
effects and negative support from South West Water. Research should
specifically investigate a “Ridan composter”, which is operated manually.
Composting food can be used on all areas of campus, including grass, and if
excess is produced, this can be given to students of members of the
community. See Appendix F for research on waste composters.
The university should not use peat free compost. Instead a viable alternative
should be investigated.
Campus Site Developments
The reservoir on the east side of campus, overlooked from the Nancy Astor
building. It is on a one hundred year lease from Plymouth City Council, and is
currently undergoing a proposed redevelopment with National Lottery
Heritage Funding. Although the current plans (as of May 2011) are very much
unconfirmed and have not been submitted, a number of factors have been
mentioned, and should be included to enhance biodiversity. When
development goes ahead, the physical impact has to be considered.
Therefore a planting strategy should be put in place, so it fits as a teaching
and learning resource. Therefore, it should be of utmost importance along
with heritage when designing and implementing plans.
Drakes Garden is located south of the reservoir, and is also on a lease with
Plymouth City Council, and included in the application for National Lottery
Heritage Funding. Within this development, biodiversity should be considered
as an integral part of the application.
Current urban green space within the campus should be protected and ring
fenced to create micro greenbelts to prevent the loss of any more green
space to development.
Species Selection
Perennials are the favoured plant type when planting in new areas. These
survive all year round, and live for longer periods of time, compared to
annuals (which only live one year). They bloom over spring and summer, and
contain a wide variety of species to enhance diversity. They are reliable in
guaranteeing colour, and only require annual maintenance.
When selecting species, campus microclimates should be taken into
consideration to provide a rich and varied environment. Campus Map A
shows microclimates caused by wind, sunshine, heat, and shade.
BIODIVERSITY POLICY 2011
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The University of Plymouth
Tree plantation is encouraged wherever possible, due to the environmental
benefits of providing a large carbon sink. Interesting species for conservation
and study, recommended from a previous biodiversity report on campus have
been suggested, and are outline in Campus Map B.
The current Tree Preservation Orders should be maintained and respected.
The Building Maintenance Manager holds these within E&FM.
When selecting species, flora which attracts small animal and bird life
should be included to further provide rich biodiversity, and thus cause a
symbiotic relationship between plans and animal life. A list of this flora can be
seen in Campus Map B.
Finally, species should also be selected which can be sustainably managed,
and should reflect Plymouth and the south west’s biological links, whilst also
being educational.
Behavioural Change and Education
Although chemical use is carried out alongside national regulations and laws,
the trialling of new chemicals should be adopted, which require longer periods
before re-spraying. Also, research into more environmentally sustainable
methods should be investigated, such as creating symbiotic relationships
between a variety of flora and fauna.
No-mow areas to increase species diversity should be continued along west
bank and the reservoir. Wherever possible, further areas should be
established, but still managed.
Placards should be planted near to, or on flora, using environmentally-friendly
tags. They should provide information about the species and origin for
students and wider community. As well as tags, further information should be
provided following the theme of the soon to be implemented ‘Geology Trail’.
This requires small metal disks planted in stones, which can be referenced to,
and provide relevant details upon biodiversity within the surrounding area.
Education should be further incorporated into campus biodiversity through
promoting the use of the Physic Garden and Skardon Garden (and also the
other species on campus). This can be achieved by ensuring the maximum
number of modules and students are gaining access to these resources.
A University of Plymouth Biodiversity Steering Group is recommended to
be involved to discuss the effectiveness of biodiversity strategies in place, and
suggested improvements to the campus. The Steering Group should include
working groups and stakeholders from the university, UPSU, external
organisations, who can work with the University of Plymouth, to promote
biodiversity together. The governance is outlined below.
Campaigns should be run to target students and explain to them the
importance of biodiversity on campus. These campaigns can be run in
BIODIVERSITY POLICY 2011
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The University of Plymouth
partnership with UPSU, during Fresher’s Week every September and Green
Week every January and aim to address:
-
The importance of biodiversity on campus and outside
The prevention of vandalism to planters
The impact and issue of littering
The impact and issue of cigarette butts and chewing gum on the ground.
The sourcing of materials should continue to take environmental factors in to
account. Consideration should be towards those issues outside as well as
inside the estate, to incorporate sustainable biodiversity on a larger scale.
This involves purchasing wood products from those retailers with Forest
Stewardship Council (FSC) kite mark.
Threats to biodiversity (such as air pollution) are to be managed by the
University’s Sustainability Policy, Carbon Management Plan, and Travel Plan.
Policy Review
The Biodiversity Policy has been written to be effective for a five year period,
from May 2011-2016.
During this time, it should be reviewed annually by the University of Plymouth
Sustainability Committee. This group shall produce an annual report
assessing the success of KPIs stated below.
Monitoring
This report states within the 5 year action plan a details species count will be
undertaken to update records and accurately monitor biodiversity. This is to
be undertaken by students, hence having academics on the Biodiversity
Steering Group to ensure students are taught and able to monitor biodiversity.
Although it is acknowledged this is a challenging task, this policy recommends
it to take place on three levels:
1. Landscape level – trends in landscape diversity, habitat availability,
landscape elements.
2. Community or ecosystem level – management actions or natural
disturbances, functions, and level of protection of areas for species
richness.
3. Species and population level – species trends, and the affect of
management actions.
The monitoring should incorporate species richness, species evenness,
disparity, rarity, and genetic variability. It should be mapped on Geographical
Information Systems (GIS) software to be monitored against. GIS manages
data relating to geographic areas, and can be used to digitally manipulate
environments. A number of students are trained in using ArcGIS; therefore
this should be the basis of this form of monitoring, to be completed by student
BIODIVERSITY POLICY 2011
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The University of Plymouth
projects offered by OPS. The KPI for this form of species monitoring has been
identified below.
Further to species monitoring, it will be necessary to asses commitment to the
biodiversity policy, and awareness and education of campus users.
Following the undertaking of monitoring, appropriate action should be taken to
suit the needs of this policy.
Communication
Communication is essential primarily for the successful implementation of
strategies mentioned, but also to keep students and stakeholders informed in
campus biodiversity developments. Ultimately, the Biodiversity Steering
Group takes responsibility of communicating their work and progress.
The Sustainability Executive Group is responsible for the execution of this
policy, and will have to ensure suitable communication is taking place, and
report on biodiversity matters. They are also responsible to communicate with
the Biodiversity Group.
Correspondence with academics is crucial for diverse species selection.
Therefore, effective communication between E&FM and certain academics
(namely John Bull and Stuart Lane) is required, to develop agreed plans
together, and continue to implementation stages to thus avoid confusion. This
is also required with external developers concerning future projects.
There also needs to be greater communication between academics and
E&FM to give a broader appreciation of what the campus has to offer, and
provide maximal opportunities for the use of Physic and Skardon Gardens.
The Sustainability Executive Group is required to communicate annual reports
upon this biodiversity policy, and actions taken as a result. The information
should be available upon the intranet:
http://intranet.plymouth.ac.uk/enviro/intranet.htm
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The University of Plymouth
Governance
Board of Governors
Sustainability Executive Group
Office for
Procurement
&Sustainability
Centre for
Sustainable
Futures
Institute for
Sustainability
Solutions Research
Biodiversity Steering Group
To be composed of: Jenny Bushrod (Chair), Stephen Sterling, Chris
Bunce, Paul Hoppins, John Bull, Stuart Lane, UPP, Andrea Roberts,
UPSU President, Ethics and Environment Officer (UPSU), Students,
Friends of Drake Garden, other community members
Responsibility
The overall responsibility of implementing the Biodiversity Policy lies with the
Sustainability Executive Group. They will approve the policy by the board of
governors, and ensure there is effective communication between all
stakeholders.
Regarding specific strategic actions recommended previously, the
responsibility lies within a number of individuals, which have been outlined in
the action plan below.
Funding
Identified Budgets
The current value of the Planscape budget is £51,500. Although the contract
has just been tendered for four years, it is renewable annually. The previous
budget was similar to the current budget, which gives an indication of what it
is likely to be over four years.
The contracts for Planscape are to be managed by OPS and E&FM. A
predicted budget of investments should be drawn up for the 5 years of this
policy, and take in to consideration funding for the strategies and operational
guidance laid out in this policy. This should be negotiated with the finance
department.
BIODIVERSITY POLICY 2011
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The University of Plymouth
The Drakes Reservoir development is seeking £500,000 from the National
Lottery heritage funding scheme which, is hoping to be matched by the
university, to be a £1 million investment, to renovate the area.
Non-Identified Costs
Within the strategies, a number of operations are recommended, which will
require non-identified costs according to their feasibility. Although the costs
are still to be determined, a table of which areas require costs are highlighted
in the action plan.
University Partnerships Programme (UPP)
After consultation with Aaron Pearce (Front of House Manager, UPP), UPP
(Plymouth) would like to be involved with the policy, and therefore agree to
follow the strategies and operational guidance laid out in this report where
practicable. Therefore the monitoring of species shall also take place on the
Student Village Site on Gibbon Street.
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The University of Plymouth
KPIs
Within the biodiversity policy, the following KPIs can be measured:
Quantitative/Qualitative
Biodiversity
Area
Action Required
Population
of New species are
animal species
selected to attract
small animal and bird
life
Flora
Fauna
Population
of An increased number
plant species
of plant species are
and
selected for
plantation
Plant diversity
Communication with
academics and
species selection
strategies
implemented
KPI
The number of
animal species
increases
compared to 2011
data
The number of
plant species
increases
compared to 2011
data
There will be a
more rich a
diverse set of
species on
campus
compared to 2011
data
Protection
of No development shall The amount of
2011
green take place on current green space is
spaces
areas of green space retained
compared to 2011
data
Freshwater
Drakes Reservoir
Marine ecology in
Physical
ecology
develops partly in to
the reservoir will
Campus
a conservation area
increase
Management
compared to 2011
data
Habitat
Physical
The number of
connectivity
infrastructure and
plant species will
species selection
increase
areas of operational
compared to 2011
guidance adopted
data
BIODIVERSITY POLICY 2011
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The University of Plymouth
Chemical use
Impact
Impact
pollution
Researching and
using more
environmentally
sustainable products
The number of
plant and animal
species increases
compared to 2011
data
of Personal and
The number of
institutional behaviour plant and animal
changes through the species increases
impact of
compared to 2011
Sustainability Policy
data
Procurement
behaviour
OPS shall only invest
in products with
sustainable kite
labels
New investments
made by OPS are
only selected if
fitting with this
criteria
Community
awareness
Education strategies
are to be
implemented
The community
are better
educated about
biodiversity on
campus
The Physic
Garden, Skardon
Garden and rest
of campus are
getting maximal
use
Students
education and
awareness for
biodiversity
increases, and
they appreciate it
Student
Human
education
Campus
Management
Student
experience
Students are
educated about
biodiversity using
practical methods
Biodiversity on
campus brings a
positive impact to the
student experience
BIODIVERSITY POLICY 2011
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The University of Plymouth
Action Plan
Action
Priority
Promoting the use of the Physic
Garden and Skardon Garden for
academic courses
Setting up a Biodiversity
Committee
Investigate the feasibility of
campaigns with UPSU, and
implement
High
Cost
Responsibility
Involved
No
E&FM, CSF
High
No
High
Yes
Investigate the feasibility of insect Medium
boxes
Investigate the feasibility of a
Medium
Ridan composter
Develop plans for the campus
Medium
reservoir
No
Develop plans for Drakes Garden Medium
No
Investigate suitable areas for
perennials, and plant them
Medium
Yes
Investigate suitable areas for
trees, and plant them
Medium
Yes
Investigate suitable flora to
attract fauna, and plant them
Medium
Yes
Investigate suitable flora relating
to Plymouth and plant them
Medium
Yes
Yes
No
Sustainability
Executive Group
Biodiversity
Group,
Education and
Welfare Sabb
E&FM,
Planscape
E&FM, Catering
Services
Development
and Alumni
Relations
Development
and Alumni
Relations
E&FM,
Academics,
Planscape
E&FM,
Academics,
Planscape
E&FM,
Academics,
Planscape
E&FM,
Academics,
Planscape
E&FM,
Planscape
Investigate the feasibility of using Medium
more environmentally sustainable
sprays
Selecting no-mow areas
Medium
No
Advertise Student Project
Opportunities and recruit
students to monitor species
Invest in materials for students to
carry out species counts
Investigate the feasibility of peat
free compost
Investigate the feasibility of
micro-greenbelts
Medium
No
E&FM,
Planscape
OPS
Medium
Yes
OPS
Low
Yes
Low
No
E&FM,
Planscape
E&FM
No
BIODIVERSITY POLICY 2011
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The University of Plymouth
Investing in placards to educate
students and the community
Continue to source materials in a
sustainable manner
Manage threats to biodiversity
through the Sustainability Policy,
Carbon Management Plan, and
Travel Plan
Increase the number of planters
Low
Yes
E&FM
Ongoing
Yes
OPS
Ongoing
No
OPS
Ongoing
Yes
Increase the number of hanging
baskets
Ongoing
Yes
E&FM,
Planscape
E&FM,
Planscape
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The University of Plymouth
Campus Map – A – Microclimates in the Campus
Key
Wind
Sunshine
Heat
Shade
BIODIVERSITY POLICY 2011
The University of Plymouth
Campus Map – B –Green Space in the Campus, and Hyperlinks to Current or Reccomended Species
Species in site walls
Current tree species on
campus
Recommended species
for Physic Garden
Recommended for
campus planting
Recommended rare and
native species
Recommended tree
species
Species at
Student Village
site
Recommended
architectural plants for
bedded areas
Recommended species
to provide habitats for
butterflies and bees
Species in Drakes
Place and reservoir
Recommended species
for planters
Recommended species for Drakes
Place and reservoir redevelopment
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The University of Plymouth
Appendices
Appendix A – List of Species on Campus
A1 - Drakes Place and Reservoir
Acer campestre
Acer palmatum atropurpureum
Acer palmatum ssp.
Acer psuedoplatanus
Achillea millefolium
Aesculus hippocastanum
Bellis perennis
Bergenia purpurascens
Betula sp.
Buddleja davidii
Carpinus betulus
Centranthus ruber
Cerastium fontanum
Chenopodium album
Conzya canadensis
Corylus avellana
Cotoneaster horizontalis
Cotoneaster sp.
Epilobium montanum
Erica sp.
Erythrosperma sp.
Escallonia sp.
Fagus sylvatica
Fatsia japonica
Fraxinus excelsior
Fushia magellanica
Geranium pratense
Geranium robertianum
Hebe recurva
Hebe x franciscana
Hosta siboldii
Hydrangea anomala petiolaris
Hypericum andrusaemum
Iris sp.
Juniperus sp.
Linaria purpurea
Mellisa officinarumPersicaria affinis
Physospermum cornubiense
BIODIVERSITY POLICY 2011
Pieris echiodes
Plantago lanceolata
Plantago major
Platanus x hispanica
Poa annua
Polygonum auiculare
Polystichum setiferum
Polystichum setiferum var.
proliferum
Privet
Prunella vulgaris
Prunus domestica
Pyracantha coccinea
Ranunculus bulbosus
Ranunculus repens
Rubus fruticosus agg.
Rumex obtusifolius
Sagina procumbens
Salix matsudana "tortuosa"
Sasa palmata
Scrophularia nodosa
Senecio vulgaris
Silene dioica
Sonchus oleraceus
Sorbus aucuparia
Stachys byzantina
Stachys sylvatica
Stellaria media
Symbolaria muralis
Taraxacum officinale
Trifolium repens
Urtica urens
Viburnum sp.
Vinca minor
Viola riviniana
Wisteria sinensis
Yucca gloriousa
The University of Plymouth
A2 - Halls of Residence (Student Village site)
Acer pseudoplatanus var.
Ilex aquifolium
Acer pseudoplatanus var.
Ilex aquifolium "varigata"
Acer sp.
Lonicera nitida
Almus cordata
Mahonia X media var.
Berberis dawinii
Oleaceae sp.
Berberis sp.
Pastinaca sativa
Berberis thunbergii
Peony officinalis
Buxus sempervirens
Phormium tenax
Callistemon citrimus
Phormium tenax "Rainbow Warrior"
Choisya ternata
Phormium tenax purpurea
Conzya canadensis
Polystichum aculeatum
Cotoneaster franchetii
Prunus sp.
Cotoneaster horizontalis
Rhus typhina
Cotoneaster salicifolius
Ribes sanguineum
Cotoneaster sp.
Rosmarinus officinalis
Cotoneaster sp.
Senecio cineraria
Elaeagnus sp.
Sorbus aria
Epilobium sp.
Sorbus sp.
Equisetum arvense
Synphorapcarpus albus
Escallonia sp.
Tamarix ramosissima
Escallonia sp.
Tilia X europaea
Geum Urbanum
Viburnum davidii
Hebe var.
Viburnum sp.
Hebe X franciscana "varigata"
Viburnum tinus
Hedera helix var.
Vicia cracca
Holcus mollis var. "albobariegatus"
Virginia Creeper
Hypericum sp.
Weigela florida var.
Hypericum tetrapterum
A3 – Campus Walls
Asplenium trichomanes
Asplenium ruta-muraira
Asplenium adiantum-nigrum
Phyllitis scolopendrium
Ceterach officinarum
Bryum capillare
Tortula muralis
Fissidens adianthoides
Ceratodon purpurescens
Anaptychia ciliaris
Caloplaca flavescens
Cladonia impexa
Cladonia fimbriata
Caloplaca marina
Caloplaca saxicola
Caloplaca thalincola
Diploicia canescens
Hypogymnia physodes
Lecanora calcarea
Lecanora dispersa
Ochrolechia parella
Parmelia caperata
Parmelia subrudecta
Physcia adsendens
Tephromela atra
Umbilicaria polyphylla
Usnea ceratina
Xanthoria parietina
Cymbalaria muralis
Linaria purpurea
Centranthus ruber
Taraxacum officinale
Umbilicus rupestris
Hedera helix
Campanula poscharskyana
Geranium robertianum
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A4 – Trees
Abies sp.
Acer campestre
Acer grosseri
Acer griseum
Acer palmatum var.
Acer palmatum var.
Acer platanoides
Acer platanoides var.
Acer pseudoplatanus
Acer pseudoplatanus var. Varigata
Acer saccharum
Acer saccharum var.
Aesculus hippocastanum
Almus cordata
Almus cordata var.
Almus glutinosa
Betula pendula
Betula pendula var.
Betula pendula pendula
Betula nigra
Betula utilis var. 'Jacquemontii'
Carpinus betulus
Cedrus atlantica f. glauca
Cordyline australis
Cordyline australis var.
Coryllis avellana
Cratagus sp.
Cratagus sp.
Cupressocyparis leylandii
Cupressocyparis leylandii var.
"Naylors Blue"
Eucalyptus gunnii
Fagus sylvatica
Fagus sylvatica var. (Fastigiate)
Fagus sylvatica var. (Purpurea)
Fraxinus excelsior
BIODIVERSITY POLICY 2011
Ginkgo biloba
Griselinia littoralis
Ilex aquifolium
Laurus nobilis
Ligustrum lucidum
Magnolia sp.
Magnolia sp.
Malus domestica
Pinus mugo
Pittosporum tenuifolium
Pittosporum tenuifolium var.
Platanus x hispanica
Prunus cerasifera var.
Prunus domestica
Prunus dulcis
Prunus sp.
Prunus sp.
Prunus sp.
Prunus subhirtella var.
Quercus ilex
Quercus palustris
Quercus robur
Rhus typhina
Robinia pseudoacacia
Taxus baccata
Salix babylonica
Salix tortuosa
Sambucus nigra
Sorbus aria
Sorbus aucuparia
Sorbus sp.
Tilia cordata
Tilia x europea
Trachycarpus fortunii
Viburnum sp.
The University of Plymouth
Appendix B –Bird Boxes
Bird boxes are
essential wherever
possible. They offer
defence against
predators and the
natural elements due
to their durability and
placement. They can
make a real difference
to the success or
failure of a breeding
species in a given
area.
Appendix C –Planters
Planters are attractive and can with
used with or without plants, and indoors
and outdoors. They are sturdy, and
easily manageable and transferrable.
Planters are made of recycled plastic.
As well as providing environmental
benefits, they have been used on
campus to control traffic flows. Although
they have been subject to vandalism on
campus before, they still prove to be
beneficial, and hopefully campaigns
should prevent this happening in the
future.
Recommended species for planters
include Agave Americana, Agave
neomexicana, Phormium sp.,
Chamaerops humils, Astelia
chathmanica, Stipa temussima,
Rubbekia hirta and Echinacea purpurea
as they can cope with drought and
require little attention.
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The University of Plymouth
Appendix D –Green Roofs
An example of a
roof garden. This
new trend breaks
up the monotony
of common roofs,
and provides
economic benefits
(retaining and
managing rain
water, insulating
heat and sound),
environmental
benefits (creating
open spaces,
providing diverse
habitats,
improving air
quality) and social
benefits (improving the aesthetic qualities, and increasing amenity space).
Appendix E –Vertical Gardening
An example of vertical gardening,
though a climber plant along a
building wall.
Vertical gardens are an alternative
way of creating environments rich
in biodiversity. They grow quickly
and can adapt to their
environments. They also act air
purification device, and are
aesthetically pleasing.
Dense flora can reduce pollution,
rainwater run-off, insulate
buildings and provide habitats for
wildlife.
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The University of Plymouth
Appendix F - Research on Biodegraders
With 4 tons of food waste being disposed of annually (76kg/week) plus garden
waste from Planscape, and raw food, composters should be capable of
composting 100-150 litres of waste each week.
F1 - Ridan Composter
This ‘Mini Ridan Composter’ is capable of composting a minimum of 80 litres
per week. The daily operation involves:
- Removing the lid, emptying food waste
- Adding the same volume of woodchips and sawdust
- Placing a bucket under the outlet
- Turning the handle (at least 5 times daily)
- Replacing the lid and emptying the compost from the bucket into a
maturation bin
The Mini Ridan Composter
-
The Ridan is 2.1m long, 1m wide and 1.5m high.
All food can be composted – raw or cooked, including meat, fish, dairy and
eggs
The Ridan composter can be sited outside, with no services or power
required and zero operating costs.
The cost to purchase the Big Ridan Composter is £1,575 plus VAT.
http://www.ridan.co.uk/
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The University of Plymouth
F2 - The Rocket Composter
This ‘Mini Ridan Composter’ is capable of composting a minimum of 80 litres
per week. The daily operation does not involve turning, because The Rocket
is powered by a single-phase 240-volt socket (using on average 12kWh per
week).
The Rocket Composter
-
The A500 Rocket composter is capable of continuously processing up to
300 litres of food waste per week.
The Rocket is 2.5m long, 0.7m wide and 1.3m high
All types of food waste can be composted – raw, cooked, meat,
vegetables, garden waste and some types of animal bedding.
Rocket composters have been used at the Universities of Salford,
Bradford, Aberystwyth and Cumbria.
BBC News article: 'Rocket composter' for uni waste (Aberystwyth)
http://www.tidyplanet.co.uk/food-waste-composters
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The University of Plymouth
F3 - The Big Hanna Composter
The Big Hanna composters are made in 5 models, the T40 being the smallest.
The T40 can compost 75-100kg, and are powered by a single 240-volt socket.
The Big Hanna T40
-
The Big Hanna T40 is 2m long, 0.8m wide, and 1.5m high.
The T40 is usually installed in housing areas, blocks of flats, and
restaurants.
http://www.necdistributors.co.uk/NEC%20-%20BIG%20HANNA.pdf
http://www.bighanna.com/
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The University of Plymouth
Appendix G – Terms of Reference
G1 - Vision, objectives, scope and deliverables
-
Aim to maximise biodiversity on campus wherever possible, and find
opportunities to create green environments by a variety of measures
stated below and complying with EU and UK legislation (found at
http://europa.eu/pol/env/index_en.htm).
-
Incorporation of environmental education, and education for sustainable
development by providing opportunities for students and the local
community.
-
The provision of not only environmental benefits, but also socio-economic
benefits, and wellbeing, to should enhance the student experience, by
promoting a recreational resource.
-
Biodiversity practices should be continually incorporated in to development
strategies, so the university acts as a beacon for sustainable development,
inspiring both students and the community.
-
The university should continue to minimise impacts outside of the estate
through sustainable procurement of materials to retain biodiversity
elsewhere.
G2 - Stakeholders, roles and responsibilities
-
Jenny Bushrod (Chair) – The Director of Procurement and Sustainability,
to chair the meetings and takes the main responsibility of ensuring the
Biodiversity Policy is implemented.
-
Stephen Sterling – The Director of the Centre for Sustainable Futures, to
bring an academic and institutional view to the Steering Group.
-
Chris Bunce – The Director of Estates and Facilities Management,
representing the view of this department.
-
Paul Hoppins – The Building Maintenance Manager, to bring a view from
Estates and Facilities Management.
-
John Bull and Stuart Lane – An academic, with expertise in ecology,
botany and biodiversity
-
UPP – To bring views from the management of the Halls of Residence
-
Andrea Roberts, UPSU President and Ethics and Environment Officer
(UPSU) – To represent the Students Union, and the voice of the students
as a body
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The University of Plymouth
-
Students – to include the views of passionate students in the
development of the campus to enhance their student experience.
-
Friends of Drake Garden and other community members – to ensure the
local community are involved in development plan, to continue to maintain
a strong rapport with the university
G3 - Work breakdown structure and schedule
The following strategies should be discussed and developed with the Steering
Group, and can be seen in more detail previously in the report.
Bird and bat boxes
Planters
Hanging baskets
Green roofs
Vertical gardening
Timber stacks
Insect boxes
Indoor plants
Food waste composting
Peat free compost
Campus reservoir
Drakes Garden
Micro greenbelts
Perennials
Microclimates
Tree plantation
Tree Preservation Orders
Flora to attract small animal and bird life
Species to reflect the south west’s biological links
Chemical use
No-now areas
Placards
Education through the Physic and Scardon Garden
Campaigns with UPSU
The sourcing of materials
Threats to biodiversity – Carbon Management Plan
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The University of Plymouth
Bibliography
This policy has been researched and compiled by Barney Smyth, a University
of Plymouth Geography student on a summer work experience placement at
the Offices for Procurement and Sustainability (OPS).
Paul Lumley, the Energy and Environment Manager at OPS, has provided
guidance and support.
Research was undertaken by assessing government policies, guidance from
QUANGOs, and other university campus policies.
As well as this, primary research was conducted with a variety of stakeholders
within the university.
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