World Wildlife Day“It Is Our Job to Teach and Exchange Knowledge for the Protection of Species Diversity”

29 February 2024, by Claudia Sewig

Photo: pixabay/silviarita

The World Wildlife Day, celebrated annually across the globe on 3 March, was introduced as part of the Washington Convention (CITES) to commemorate and raise awareness about wildlife. How does Universität Hamburg promote the preservation of species diversity? Three questions for Myriam Rapior, Universität Hamburg’s biodiversity manager

Why does the University focus on species conservation?

Universität Hamburg naturally cares about conserving our ecosystems—the foundation of our life. Many researchers at our University are conducting research on species diversity. They are investigating, for instance, how society can help prevent or mitigate species extinction. As economics, politics and society depend on our knowledge of species conservation, we have an obligation to teach and share our knowledge.

How is Universität Hamburg contributing to species conservation?

The University fosters numerous terrific projects, such as the large wildflower meadow for insects and other wildlife. Also, our AG Biodiversität (biodiversity working group) is active throughout the University. Together with the Campus Development team we are, for instance, aiming to identify the potentials of species diversity on our properties and bring it to full use. We are also planning species conservation measures in and around our buildings.

Furthermore, we are organizing excursions and hands-on activities together with nature protection organizations. This is to make nature and species conservation tangible to students and staff. Besides, you can join various nature protection activities within our sustainability certification program. And we are currently initiating exchange on biodiversity between researchers across all disciplines.

How can University members get involved?

Come join our biodiversity working group and give our campus a green makeover! Email us(biodiv-lab"AT"uni-hamburg.de) and we will send you all details. Feel free to engage in our other established biodiversity projects. Wiebke Främcke, for instance, initiated a project to build wildlife habitats at the Hamburg Observatory in Bergedorf. Among other things, we already fixed a date for building a small amphibian guide fence. You can also register for various other environmental excursions. Online registration via the AG