Sustainable Development Policies

14.3.3

Maintaining Ecosystems and Their Biodiversity

1. Purpose

This Policy defines the University of Thessaly’s commitment to maintaining, restoring, and enhancing natural ecosystems and biodiversity, through research, community engagement, and partnerships with industries, local authorities, and environmental organizations. It supports the protection of species and habitats, especially those under threat from climate change, urbanization, and pollution.

2. Scope

This Policy applies to all research, teaching, and outreach activities related to environmental sciences, biology, agriculture, and regional development; collaborations with governmental and non-governmental bodies; campus and field projects involving habitat restoration; and partnerships with industries for biodiversity conservation.

3. Legal and Institutional Context

This Policy aligns with: Law 1650/1986; Law 3937/2011 (Conservation of Biodiversity in Greece); Law 4936/2022 (National Climate Law); EU Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC); EU Birds Directive (2009/147/EC); EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030; Convention on Biological Diversity (1992); and UN SDGs 14 and 15.

4. Policy Statement

1. The University of Thessaly is committed to protecting and enhancing ecosystems and biodiversity through research, field initiatives, and collaboration.
   2. The University will conduct applied research, restore local habitats, and engage communities and industries.
   3. Projects must comply with environmental legislation and ethical standards.
   4. Priority will be given to ecologically sensitive or degraded areas.
   5. The University collaborates with national and international authorities and organizations.
   6. Biodiversity protection will be integrated into education, research, and campus planning.

5. Implementation and Responsibilities

– The Rector oversee this Policy.
– The Departments of  (a) Agriculture Crop Science and Rural Environment, (b) Ichthyology and Aquatic Environment and (c) Environmental Sciences lead research and field actions.
– The Sustainability Committee monitors compliance and biodiversity indicators.
– The Public Relations Office coordinates partnerships and outreach.

6. Monitoring and Review

The Policy will be reviewed every three (3) years. Indicators include biodiversity projects, restored habitat areas, biodiversity indices, and external partnerships.

7. Related Documents / References

Law 1650/1986; Law 3937/2011; Law 4936/2022; EU Directives 92/43/EEC & 2009/147/EC; EU Biodiversity Strategy 2030; Convention on Biological Diversity (1992); UN SDGs 14 & 15.