Supporting Biodiversity with Onsite Habitat Development
It is widely accepted that the current rate of biodiversity loss is accelerating worldwide, with decline rate estimates ranging from 100 to 1000 times higher than naturally occurring baselines. Biodiversity experts estimate that about 30% of species have been globally threatened or driven to extinction since the year 1500.[1]
In Germany, EAS colleagues based at our facility in Niefern-Öschelbronn have initiated a project to help the efforts being made to counteract this loss, aiming to promote local biodiversity and provide animals and insects with food and shelter.
The team identified neglected green spaces extending around buildings and parking lots onsite, with the potential to serve as retreats and feeding niches for a variety of insects and other animals.
In December 2023, the greening measure began, seeing these vacant areas redesigned to create valuable habitats for insects and animals. Drought-resistant plants were carefully selected to meet the challenges of climate change.
Photo: [l] before [r] after
Approximately 16 tons of limestone blocks were introduced to the site, and a variety of habitats created amongst the new rockery including plants such as Acaena – copper carpet, Ajuga reptans - bugleherb, Ameria maritima – sea thrift, Aubrieta – purple rock cress, Carlina acaulis - silver thistle, Lavendula angustifolia - lavender, Linum perenne - flax, Origanum vulg. - oregano, Thymus ser. - Thyme, Saliva pratensis - Sage, Prizelago alpina - chamois cress, Stipa capillata - bunchgrass and many more.
Photo: Examples of newly planted species
Initially, soil was excavated from the area and the new surface covered with special granulate to create an optimal foundation for the plants. The excavated soil was later re-introduced to another area creating a small strip adjoining the excavated area, maximizing the space available for planting. This strip was sown with a flowering grass mixture of regional grasses.
Colleagues onsite are monitoring the impact of this new habitat, and have already witnessed an increase in bees and other pollinating insects!
Photo: Wild grasses
EAS Colleagues partner with a local organization "Miteinanderleben Service GmbH" https://miteinanderleben.de/ueber-uns/ , to ensure the continuous maintenance of the green spaces.
This organization supports people with additional needs, enabling them to actively participate in professional life. Together, we ensure that the new outdoor habitat remains in good condition, replacing and adding plants where necessary.
Future plans include the addition of nesting boxes for local bird-life – watch this space for updates and get in touch with any questions!
[1] source: Expert perspectives on global biodiversity loss and its drivers and impacts on people https://esajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/fee.2536
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