By Maria Trabjerg Ulsøe, AAU Campus Services

Aalborg University (AAU) has taken a significant step towards promoting sustainability and biodiversity through the establishment of a permaculture and biodiversity garden on its campus. This initiative is part of a collaborative effort with AMU Nordjylland, aimed at advancing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The garden, located at Thomas Manns Vej 20 in Aalborg Øst, features a variety of native plant species, including perennials, fruit bushes, and trees that provide shade. It also includes a herb bed, a water basin, and a hop hedge designed to grow into a living sail. This project not only enhances the campus’s green spaces but also serves as a practical learning environment for students and visitors.

For individuals with neurodiversity, such as autism, ADHD, or other cognitive differences, sensory gardens can offer a safe and relaxing environment. These gardens can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve concentration, and promote a sense of well-being by providing positive sensory experiences. AAU’s new sensory gardens are one of many initiatives for inclusion and better well-being for everyone.

AAU’s gardener Louise Jørgensen, played a crucial role in planning and implementing the garden. The project was developed during a professional development course at Sandmoseskolen, AMU Nordjylland, in February 2024, in collaboration with instructor Catarina Testholm. This hands-on approach allows students from AMU Nordjylland to engage in real-world landscaping tasks, learning about the 17 SDGs in the process.

The garden supports various organisms and contributes to the university’s broader environmental goals. The project also highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, involving multiple educational institutions and stakeholders to achieve common sustainability objectives.

Visitors are welcome to explore the garden and experience its diverse plant life, making it a living example of how educational institutions can contribute to global sustainability efforts.