Biodiversity and green space

UEL manages its green spaces to support biodiversity, improve wellbeing and enhance the campus environment.

Alongside the UEL Community Garden, several new green spaces have been created across campus, including:

  • The Wildflower Garden next to SportsDock
  • The Reflection and Relaxation Space near Docklands Library
  • The Natural Dye Garden behind the AVA Building, which supports research and experimentation with plant-based dyes

Explore these spaces on the Sustainability Map.

Student in the campus garden at our Docklands Campus

Supporting wildlife

In 2024–25, more than 1,200m² of campus grounds were transformed into wildflower meadows. These areas provide important habitats for pollinators such as bees and butterflies, while also helping to improve soil health and support carbon capture.

All new planting schemes prioritise native species and year-round support for pollinators.

Protecting habitats

Designated wilding areas are managed to support local wildlife, including Great Crested Newts, a protected species. Habitat enhancement measures are used to minimise disruption and encourage breeding and movement between habitats.

Sustainable grounds management

UEL uses an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach to reduce pesticide use across campus.

This includes:

  • Manual weeding
  • Mulching
  • Pest-deterring planting schemes
  • Organic and bio-based treatments

Low-pressure irrigation systems are also used to reduce water consumption while maintaining healthy planting areas.