Ohio State is in the process of revising websites and program materials to accurately reflect compliance with the law. While this work occurs, language referencing protected class status or other activities prohibited by Ohio Senate Bill 1 may still appear in some places. However, all programs and activities are being administered in compliance with federal and state law.

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Increase Ecosystem Services

Natural Habitats Program

As part of Ohio State's commitment to sustainability and to support learning, well-being and environmental resilience, the university has installed natural habitats across university lands. 

Facilities Operations and Development (FOD) works in collaboration with faculty, students and sustainability experts to identify key locations for natural habitat restoration and enhancement. These efforts support tree canopy, urban meadow and pollinator-friendly landscape expansions on campus.

What are Natural Habitats?

Natural habitats are areas of vegetation that have evolved or adapted to a particular geographic region. These landscapes consist of indigenous plant species that work together to form complex, interconnected ecosystems. By preserving and expanding these areas, the university enhances the ecological balance of campus while promoting biodiversity and environmental health. 

Benefits of Natural Habitats

Expanding natural habitats across university properties provides a range of ecological, social and environmental benefits, including:

  • Supporting biodiversity by creating habitat for wildlife, including insects, birds, and mammals.
  • Preventing erosion and improving stormwater management by filtering runoff and stabilizing soil.
  • Sequestering carbon through plant photosynthesis and soil storage.
  • Enhancing soil health and promoting nutrient cycling.
  • Improving air quality by reducing pollutants and increasing oxygen production.
  • Reducing landscape maintenance needs, including mowing, irrigation, and pesticide use.
  • Providing educational and research opportunities for students and faculty through campus living labs.
  • Strengthening a sense of place and cultural heritage by integrating native plant species significant to the region.

News

See All News
  • Students participating in the Jennings Rain Garden Clean-Up.

    Volunteers Help Beautify Jennings Hall Rain Garden

    On Saturday, October 8, student volunteers joined Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) staff to clean and maintain the Jennings Hall rain gardens.
  • Aparna Dial

    In the News: Aparna Dial on Protecting People and the Environment

    Aparna Dial approaches sustainability with a view through three lenses: She immigrated to the United States from India. She’s a woman in a male-dominated field.

  • Coffee Ground, Literally

    It’s one of the most iconic and majestic places on Ohio State’s campus. Whether it’s studying, taking pictures or exercising, students, faculty, staff and visitors flock to Mirror Lake, but the lake is more than just a place for Buckeyes to gather.