Enhancing biodiversity in our projects
In 2022, we set biodiversity targets for our operations. Because we create long-lasting living environments, we began by defining the methods and indicators that guide the design of green areas. Our aim is to preserve as much existing nature as possible, and we have drawn up a landscape design guideline to support this work.
In 2025, we published our biodiversity roadmap, which guides how biodiversity is integrated into our business between 2025 and 2030. SRV is the first construction company to include a nature footprint target in such a roadmap. Our goal is to reduce our corporate-level nature footprint and increase our positive nature handprint in urban environments.
We follow the mitigation hierarchy to manage impacts on biodiversity. In practice, this means we first aim to avoid negative environmental impacts altogether. If avoidance is not possible, impacts can be reduced, restored or managed. As a last resort, impacts are compensated through conservation or restoration measures. SRV applies the mitigation hierarchy case by case, taking the local ecosystem and its natural values as the starting point.
Biodiversity in lifecycle-wise buildings
Urban biodiversity is not limited to natural environments. It also belongs in the built environment and in courtyards. In SRV’s lifecycle-wise concept, green roofs and diverse courtyards support both ecological and human wellbeing.
How we promote biodiversity
- We preserve existing vegetation and guide landscape design through diverse planting solutions, avoiding single-species mass plantings.
- We use seed-propagated plants to increase genetic diversity and support endangered species in traditional habitats and dry meadow environments.
- Layered vegetation provides food and nesting sites for birds and pollinators.
Benefits for the environment and people
- Maximising green surfaces and minimising hard surfaces reduces urban flooding and supports climate-resilient urban development.
- Vegetation moderates temperature extremes and helps reduce the urban heat-island effect.
- Green environments promote wellbeing, especially for children and older people.
- Early exposure to nature supports the immune system.
- Green surroundings enhance comfort and increase property value.
