Short and Long Term Objectives

As the Princeton campus grows, we are deepening our focus on cultivating healthy habitats that are integrated into the experiential fabric of the campus and more resilient to climate change disruption. We will start with a focus on the connectivity and quality of forested habitats on campus in the context of state-wide connectivity efforts that promote the movement of wildlife across the landscape as they seek shelter, food, mates and other resources. We expect to develop this approach to include other habitat types over time.

Global Context, Local Action

Global development patterns have led to the conversion of more than half of the planet’s natural habitats, with similar patterns occurring in New Jersey, more so than any other coastal state.^1,2 Forested habitats have become fragmented, compromising the ecosystem functions of the remaining patches, limiting the movement of species and hampering biodiversity.³ Research has also demonstrated inequalities in access to green space, with disparities by income, education and race.⁴

Recognizing the value of healthy habitats for human well-being and biodiversity, especially as development pressures increase, Princeton has taken a campus-wide ecosystem approach to landscape management by expanding woodland and native meadow plantings and renewing more natural rainwater and stream flows in the landscape. The University’s greenspace offers an unparalleled community amenity, open to all.