News

The University of Sussex is strengthening its commitment to nature recovery and local wildlife through a new collaboration with Sussex Nature Sense. 

Nature Sense is a University-led initiative supporting habitat monitoring, biodiversity assessments and nature-recovery planning. Originally developed through the Sussex Sustainability Research Programme (SSRP), it has grown into a hands-on programme helping the University and other land managers across the Southeast take an evidence-based approach to caring for the environment. 

Understanding nature on our campus 

Set within the South Downs National Park, the University of Sussex is uniquely positioned to protect and enhance a rich natural landscape. With this opportunity comes a responsibility to better understand and support the ecosystems on our doorstep.

We’ve taken an important step forward with two new Nature Senses stations now collecting valuable data. Camera traps have already captured species such as badgers and foxes, while acoustic monitors are recording bird vocalisations. Alongside this, students and staff have been getting involved in seasonal surveys, including earthworm studies to assess soil health – with more opportunities to take part coming soon.

Over time, this monitoring will build a clearer picture of nature on campus, from soil health and carbon storage to the diversity of plants, insects, birds and mammals. These insights will help the University make informed decisions about how we manage our green spaces to better support biodiversity.

Get involved through citizen science 

This initiative isn’t just about research, it’s about community. 

We’re inviting students and staff to take part in hands-on ecological monitoring as citizen scientists. No experience is needed, just curiosity and a willingness to get involved. 

Upcoming sessions: 

Taking part is an opportunity to: 

You’ll help collect data, identify species and contribute to research that directly shapes how we care for our campus environment.