Addenbrooke's and The Rosie Hospital Collaborate to Promote Biodiversity

Cambridge University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust has embarked on a biodiversity action week.

Switch Now, comprised of young adults with learning difficulties and disabilities, has been working closely with CUH's sustainability team to construct a bug hotel within a new wildlife garden situated near the entrance to the Rosie Hospital.

Explaining the initiative, Katie Sell, sustainability manager at CUH, said 

Biodiversity around the world is declining due to mass habitat loss and climate change. CUH has joined the fight by actively creating spaces that support our local biodiversity.

The bug hotel serves as a safe haven for various mini-beasts such as ladybirds, bees, woodlice, and spiders. It provides shelter and protection from predators, and a nurturing environment for these crucial creatures that contribute to the health and vitality of gardens.

Switch Now's co-workers visited the site in early May to plan and measure the bug hotel's location. They carefully considered the needs of insects and other inhabitants, ensuring the optimal placement of their new home.

Following the initial planning phase, the team diligently worked on the bug hotel at their St Neots workshop. They later visited the wildlife garden to install the base, construct the frame, and gather materials like pine cones to create a welcoming environment for the insects.

Rachel Northfield, head of corporate support and sustainability, expressed appreciation for the Switch Now co-workers, stating,

"We want to thank the co-workers for their amazing work on the new bug-hotel – which any woodlouse or solitary bee would be delighted to stay in. Working with community organizations like Switch Now helps us champion biodiversity and support young people in developing vital skills that will aid them in their future endeavors."

As part of the wildlife garden project, CUH's sustainability team also installed nine bird roosters across the hospital site, further enhancing the habitat and encouraging local bird species to find a safe place to nest.

To complement the biodiversity week of action, CUH staff and volunteers also took part in planting nectar-rich flowers in 10 pre-filled planters strategically placed around the hospital premises.

The planters were generously funded by Addenbrooke's Charitable Trust.

Recognizing the urgency of addressing climate change and biodiversity loss, CUH has formulated a comprehensive green plan. The Trust aims to reduce its direct carbon emissions by over two thousand tonnes by 2024 and become a net-zero organization by 2045.

For more information about CUH's Green Plan, please visit their website