On May 22, 2026, the International Day for Biological Diversity, the College of Architecture and Urban Planning (CAUP) at Tongji University announced the completion of the University’s first bird-friendly building retrofit project. Located at the glass corridor connecting Buildings B and C, the project was designed and implemented by faculty members and students, marking an important milestone in promoting biodiversity conservation and sustainable campus development.

The initiative was led by the Biodiversity Conservation and Nature Perception Research Group of the Key Laboratory of Territorial Spatial Intelligent Planning under the Ministry of Natural Resources. Supported by a Student Innovation and Training Program (SITP), the project brought together an interdisciplinary team of students known as the “Tongji Bird Guardians” in collaboration with the university’s environmental student association.

The retrofit was developed following extensive field surveys, long-term monitoring, and site-specific analysis of bird activity across the Tongji campus. The selected location, adjacent to the Sanhaowu water area and surrounding green spaces, had previously been identified as a high-risk site for bird collisions. Based on research findings, the team adopted an internationally recognized bird-friendly design strategy featuring patterned markings applied to the glass surface. The solution effectively enhances the visibility of the structure to birds while preserving architectural aesthetics, natural lighting conditions, and everyday building functions.

Beyond its ecological function, the project also integrates design, education, and public engagement. The visual scheme incorporates representations of bird species commonly found on campus and reflects the College’s commitment to connecting architectural design with environmental responsibility. The completed installation transforms the corridor into a space that combines biodiversity protection, environmental awareness, and campus experience.

Faculty members emphasized that the project demonstrates how architectural knowledge and design expertise can contribute directly to addressing environmental challenges. By translating research into a built intervention, the project provides a valuable example of practice-based learning and interdisciplinary collaboration.

The completion of the retrofit coincides with this year’s International Day for Biological Diversity theme, “Acting Locally for Global Impact.” As Tongji University’s first bird-friendly building project, it establishes a model for future ecological improvements on campus and highlights the role that universities can play in advancing biodiversity conservation through research, design, and education.

Looking ahead, CAUP will continue to explore innovative approaches to integrating ecological considerations into planning, architecture, and urban design, contributing to the creation of more sustainable and nature-inclusive built environments.