Working towards a biodiverse planet
The work of our researchers and students contributes to the conservation and restoration of biodiversity. But what exactly is biodiversity, and why is it so important to preserve it?
Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in a given area—whether it is your balcony, the ditch behind your house, or an entire country. It includes all animals, plants, and microorganisms living in that area, both above and below ground. All those organisms play one or more roles there, for example as a decomposer, pollinator or food source. This way, all these organisms are connected. Together, they ensure that nature continues to function properly.
Due to human activities, biodiversity is globally under pressure. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), over 45,000 plant and animal species are at risk of extinction. This is driven by factors such as habitat loss, overfishing, overhunting, pollution—such as excess nitrogen—and the impacts of climate change.
Loss of biodiversity is a problem for us all. Because nature provides clean air and water, supplies us with food, and helps protect us from flooding and drought.
Our researchers study the state of biodiversity on our planet. They explore its role in nature and the factors that drive changes in biodiversity. They also investigate effective strategies for preserving and restoring biodiversity. From the start of their studies, our students also actively engage with biodiversity, working alongside researchers to help create a more biodiverse world.
This is how we work on biodiversity
Jonas Lembrechts and his students chart biodiversity across the Netherlands
The plan is to continue monitoring for years. Lembrechts: “By measuring continuously over the long term, we can get a clear picture of biodiversity variation."
Project Aanwaaiers: gather data with your class and explore biodiversity
Classes in the final three years of primary schools in the province of Utrecht can now sign up for the project and contribute to research on plant biodiversity.
Green walls can combat urban heat and help biodiversity
Plant-covered facades can help cool cities and boost biodiversity, a new study now confirms. The study was led by ecologist Katharina Hecht.
Parasites are biodiversity too
Parasites are often overlooked in biodiversity research and conservation efforts. That needs to change, says zombie ant researcher Charissa de Bekker.
BioCliVE quantifies how biodiversity will contribute to future grassland resilience under climate change
Researchers at Utrecht University are mapping the effects of biodiversity and climate change on grassland functioning on a daily basis.
A museum with a growing collection to preserve plant diversity
Utrecht University Botanic Gardens is a museum. Like any other museum, they actively maintain their collection. How do they do this? And why is it important?
Part of the year theme 2025
Healthy Planet is Utrecht University's 2025 theme. With this innovative and highly relevant year theme, we showcase the knowledge we are developing and our collaboration with external partners. Staff and students from various disciplines contribute to the theme during the year.
