University launches new Ecological Management Plan
Posted on Tuesday 26 May 2026
The new University of York Ecological Management Plan sets out a shared vision for enhancing biodiversity, sustainability and wellbeing across the University’s campuses and communities. Building on the previous plan, the updated framework broadens its scope to better connect biodiversity with the University’s core activities, including education, research, campus management and community wellbeing.
Developed through collaboration with estates planning, staff, students and local communities, the plan recognises that creating a more sustainable and nature-positive campus requires action across all areas of University life. Structured around five interconnected pillars — monitoring and management of biodiversity, education, research and wellbeing — the plan provides practical and inclusive recommendations to support both people and nature at the University.
The Ecological Management Plan also reflects a wider institutional commitment to considering the more-than-human impacts of decision-making on campus. By encouraging collaboration across students, staff, faculties and the University’s blue, green and built environments, the plan aims to help identify challenges and opportunities, pool resources and co-create solutions that benefit both the University community and the wider public good.
Staff, students and visitors can explore the two-page summary or full version of the plan to find out more, and sign up to the LCAB mailing list for updates on events, opportunities and activities connected to biodiversity and sustainability on campus. There will also be an opportunity to learn more about the plan and explore ways of connecting with nature at the upcoming York Festival of Ideas event.
- Ecological Management Plan summary (PDF
, 2,160kb) - UoY Ecological Management Plan full version (PDF , 5,200kb)
- Sign up to LCAB mailing list
- Attend our Festival of Ideas Connecting with Nature on Campus event
Many thanks go to the writing team, Directorate of Estates, the Environmental Sustainability at York (ESAY), the Leverhulme Centre for Anthropocene Biodiversity, the Sustainability Steering Group (SSG), and everyone who contributed to the campus survey and development of the plan.