Leiden Bio Science Park focuses on biodiversity: from ornamental grass to thriving nature
Neat strips of grass and perfectly manicured flowerbeds may look green and inviting, but they’re often not the best for nature. That’s why Leiden University is prioritising a comprehensive biodiversity plan over conventional greenery at the Leiden Bio Science Park (LBSP).
Buzzards, hobbies, sparrowhawks, bats, meadow browns, ruddy darters, lesser ramshorn snail and yellow rattles – these eight lucky species are set to receive extra protection under the plan, commissioned by Leiden University to enhance biodiversity at the LBSP. These species have been frequently observed in the area and thrive in the kind of natural environment the plan envisions.
Insect populations
‘In recent years, it’s become clear that natural ecosystems are under immense pressure. Insect populations are declining and bird numbers are plummeting, partly due to construction activities’, explains Joek Kruiderink, project director for area development at the university’s Real Estate Department and responsible for the development of the LBSP. ‘As a major developer in Leiden, we want to take responsibility. Greening is essential for tackling climate change, and biodiversity-focused greenery is even more effective.
The right mix of plants can help retain water and is more resilient during heatwaves, he adds, ‘The LBSP is a significant part of the city, so we have a real opportunity to make an impact.’
This isn’t just good news for nature – more biodiversity also holds economic potential for the university. It will make the park more attractive to companies and researchers who prioritise sustainability and innovation, strengthening the university’s role as a knowledge and innovation hub. The park will be not just a haven for nature but also a breeding ground for new scientific and economic initiatives. ‘For a park that aims to promote health, a biodiverse environment is a must’, says Kruiderink.
Four types of ecosystem
The plan, ready for implementation since last autumn, outlines four types of ecosystem for the park: aquatic, wooded, grassland and urban. Within these categories will be various subtypes in the park, varying from water features and flower-rich meadows to shrubland, green roofs and facades.
Bram van Schaffelaar, an ecology project leader at Ranox, the environmental contractor that developed the plan with MOSS architects, emphasises the importance of a well-thought-out approach. ‘With all the development, nature often doesn’t have the space to flourish of its own accord. We can make a significant difference by efficiently organising the available green areas.’
Continuous corridor
By efficiently, Van Schaffelaar means ensuring each type of ecosystem forms a continuous corridor rather than being scattered across the park. ‘This allows species to move freely within their environment’, he explains. ‘Right now, there are some great initiatives at the park, like eco-friendly banks, but they’re fragmented. Ornamental grasses may look nice and are planted with good intentions but they offer little ecological value.’
Positive steps have already been taken at the Campus square, where greenery is being developed with input from the Biology department, Naturalis Biodiversity Center and an external ecologist. For example, year-round biodiversity and adequate space for trees to grow have been prioritised. A green corridor is also being established along Rosalind Franklinpad. However, existing areas like the Campus Square will be reviewed to ensure they align with the new vision.
No quick fixes
How long will this transformation take? ‘That depends on what we find’, says Van Schaffelaar. ‘This isn’t a quick fix. People often want to see mature trees right away, but large trees struggle to adapt to new environments, whereas saplings grow more successfully and will eventually surpass the larger trees. A thriving natural environment requires patience.’
Yellow rattle
The yellow rattle is the only plant included in the list of eight focus species. Although not a protected species, it plays a vital ecological role. As a semi-parasitic plant, it extracts nutrients from grasses, creating space and light for other plants to flourish. ‘This is crucial’, Van Schaffelaar explains, ‘because it allows a greater variety of plants to grow. That will make for a more diverse landscape and create the conditions for unique species, like orchids, to thrive.