Bright Horizons sets out plan to boost biodiversity across its UK nurseries

Ahead of World Environment Day, and as part of its Future Earth week, Bright Horizons has announced a strategic survey programme to support nature across its UK nursery estate. The initiative will use science-led data and ecological expertise to guide future environmental decisions and prioritise interventions where they can have the greatest impact. 

The programme will be delivered in partnership with environmental experts Ground Control and its Evergreen Fund, a UK-based biodiversity specialist supporting organisations to protect and enhance natural environments through research, insight and practical solutions. 

This first phase forms part of Bright Horizons’ wider Biodiversity Strategy. The initial three-month phase will combine on-site habitat surveys with wider desk-based analysis, covering approximately 90% of its UK nursery estate. It will prioritise locations with the greatest opportunity to deliver meaningful biodiversity improvements, ensuring actions are targeted, evidence-led and capable of delivering long-term environmental benefit. 

Insights from this work will inform a future biodiversity enhancement plan, support strategic decision-making and help Bright Horizons identify where targeted interventions can have the greatest impact. This could include introducing green roofs to support urban habitats, enhancing outdoor learning environments in specific regions, or taking steps to protect local species and ecosystems. 

This all sits within Bright Horizons’ broader Future Earth framework, which places sustainability at the centre of its operations and focuses on supporting biodiversity within the communities it serves. 

Philip Smith, Managing Director at Bright Horizons, said: “As we support, nurture and help to prepare the next generation, we also have a responsibility to protect the natural world they will inherit. Combining expert insight with the passion of our teams will enable us to take a more informed and impactful approach to protecting nature for the future.” 

Chris Bawtree, Nature Recovery Director – Ground Control Evergreen Fund, said: “We are excited to be working with such an environmentally forward-thinking organisation as Bright Horizons on this project. The work will deliver strategic Nature Positive outcomes across the whole portfolio of sites with the added bonus of learning opportunities for the nursery and preschool children, families and Bright Horizons’ colleagues.” 

Through this initiative, Bright Horizons aims to better understand and enhance nature across its settings, while contributing positively to the communities it serves. By nurturing nature today, the organisation is helping to shape a more sustainable future through informed, evidence-led action.