Gardens, whether urban or rural, now represent a significant share of the spaces available to living organisms. When thoughtfully designed and managed, they can become genuine refuges for biodiversity, particularly within highly artificialised landscapes.
Gardens & Biodiversity is a collection of mini-guides grounded in scientific ecology and intended for the general public. Its purpose is to support simple, practical, and accessible actions, while respecting the actual needs of species and the functioning of ecosystems.
These guides do not promote ornamental or recreational gardening. Instead, they present ecologically sound interventions, based on current scientific knowledge, aimed at sustainably supporting local fauna and flora.
Simple actions, real impact
Even at a small scale, certain interventions can have measurable effects on biodiversity:
- providing breeding and reproduction sites,
- creating refuges during droughts and heatwaves,
- improving ecological connectivity between habitats,
- supporting natural water and nutrient cycles.
The Gardens & Biodiversity collection focuses on actions adapted to small private gardens, courtyards, schools, and small green spaces.
First mini-guides available
💧 Creating a Mini-Pond
A step-by-step mini-guide to creating a small pond—a fully functional aquatic ecosystem. Ponds play a key role for many species, particularly amphibians, aquatic insects, and certain plant species, even though they have declined sharply across Europe over the past century.
🐦 Welcoming Birds into the Garden (in progress)
A mini-guide to understanding the essential needs of birds (food resources, breeding sites, shelter) and to implementing simple measures that support local species throughout the year.
A science-based approach
Each guide is built upon:
- knowledge derived from the scientific literature,
- a cautious approach, avoiding exaggerated claims,
- respect for local species and ecological balances.
A project, a question?
Do you have a pond creation project or would you like support in developing biodiversity-friendly practices?
📩 Contact: explorecology@gmail.com