The University of Graz attaches particular importance to the protection and care of the old tree population and to the addition of carefully selected new and replanted trees. It endeavours to increase the diversity of plants and animals, including amphibians, insects and birds, and to make this tangible for university members and the public through targeted communication measures. The University of Graz also contributes its expertise to construction projects in order to make the best possible use of green space management during the planning and construction phase in favour of biodiversity. The aim is to design the campus as an ecosystem that is adapted to future climatic challenges through careful species selection and sustainable irrigation. This should ensure that the campus remains an attractive place to spend time and a recreational area for university members and the population of Graz.
Flourishing habitat
Flower meadows, such as this flower strip planted in 2023, support biodiversity by providing nectar and pollen for bees, butterflies and many other insects. This in turn promotes the pollination of plants and helps to maintain the ecological balance.
Living deadwood
The trunk of a plane tree, which stood next to the former "Vorklinik" in Harrachgasse until August 2023, now continues to provide a valuable habitat for species-rich communities on the university campus in front of the main entrance to the Universitätsplatz 2 building. Fungi, insects, woodlice and other organisms utilise the tree and slowly break it down in the process.
A flourishing future: projects with bees
The University of Graz is committed to honey bee research in order to counteract the threats posed by climate change, such as diseases and environmental pollution. Together with the BioBienenApfel project, which is supported as part of the European Green Deal, new habitats for pollinators have been created in recent months!