Here you can read more about what we at Skövdebostäder are doing to ensure that tenants of all ages enjoy our outdoor spaces.
How does Skövdebostäder address biodiversity today?
Here at Skövdebostäder, we do a lot to promote biodiversity, for example:
- It ensures that plants, fruits, and berries are available for as long a season as possible. This gives insects plenty of food to feast on—while allowing our tenants to enjoy beautiful surroundings.
- Creates insect hotels, bumblebee boxes, and creotopes (an oasis designed to promote biodiversity), and more.
- We use methods designed to increase biodiversity. In some areas, for example, we cut the grass with a scythe instead of using machines.
- Places or leaves firewood, brush, tree trunks, sand, and piles of rocks in the area. This provides shelter and habitat for a variety of species.
- We take care of our trees because they stabilize the soil and provide shade. They help us adapt to climate change and can contribute to our tenants’ well-being.
- We’re learning about biodiversity. For example, some of our environmental stewards will take a training course after the summer where we’ll both learn the theory and visit the areas in person.
- We are working on developing management plans that outline how to manage areas to increase biodiversity
- We check the plants we purchase for flatworms before planting them. Flatworms are an invasive species that can cause significant damage to the natural environment.
We use methods that promote biodiversity—such as mowing with a scythe.
What does Skövdebostäder want to achieve in the future?
In our sustainability strategy, we have developed the following overall goals:
- Skövdebostäder aims to increase the share of ecosystem services in our outlying areas by 20 percent by 2030 (using 2020 as the base year).
- By 2030, all areas will have outdoor environment plans, which will be reviewed and updated.
What can I do as a tenant?
As a tenant, you can help promote biodiversity in several ways—especially if you have a patio, balcony, or are gardening in a raised bed. Here are a few examples of how you can promote biodiversity while also contributing to the overall well-being of the neighborhood:
- Avoid chemical pesticides. These substances can harm insects such as bees and bumblebees. Flower bulbs are often treated with pesticides, so choose organic alternatives.
- Create a flower garden or herb garden! You can grow these in a planter or plant more flowers in your flower bed if you have your own garden.
- Have flowering plants throughout the season. Pollinating insects need food from March through October—so this is an important step
- Choose plants grown in Sweden, and remember to always check the plants and root balls for flatworms and eggs.
- If you have a garden, a birdbath is very much appreciated by birds, bees, and butterflies alike.
Why is the issue of biodiversity important?
Biodiversity is essential for all life on Earth—and right now, a mass extinction of species is underway. Functioning ecosystems protect us from disasters and are, for example, essential for a stable climate. They contribute to plant pollination, which is vital for our ability to grow food.
