What Can I Do: Adapt to our changing climate

While we can take measures now to curb greenhouse gas emissions, the benefits won’t be apparent for some time.

Changes to our climate over the next 30 to 40 years caused by past emissions are thought to be inevitable.

Forests and woodlands are important for climate change adaptation in two ways.

First, we must ensure that we design and manage forests and woodlands to cope with the new climate: for example, we can develop habitat networks and create natural woods that encourage animals to travel and let them, do that safely.

Second, woodlands can help both urban and rural areas to adapt to the changing climate by providing shade and healthier, more beautiful, paces to live.

Trees can also help to prevent flooding.

We need to plan ahead for these changes. In the UK, significant increases in average temperatures are expected.

Winters will see substantially fewer frosts. Summer droughts and winter flooding may become more common. Cloud cover in summer, particularly in the south, could reduce, leading to increased amounts of sunshine.

While these predictions are subject to many uncertainties, it is already clear that there will be an impact on our trees and forests.

Changes will vary from one region to another.

Scotland, northern England and much of Wales could see faster tree growth because of rising carbon dioxide levels, a longer growing season, and a generally warmer climate.

On the other hand, some areas of England may see more summer droughts which will slow the growth rates of many types of trees.

Pest and disease outbreaks could be a particular problem. Trees under stress are more susceptible to harmful insect pests and diseases.

The majority of insect pests that currently affect UK forestry are likely to benefit from climate change, through increased summer activity and reduced winter mortality.

The character of our native woods is also likely to change. We need to think carefully about the types of trees we plant in different parts of the UK, particularly if we want them to produce timber. In some parts of southern England, some native species will grow too slowly and take too long to provide timber.

If you are considering planting shrubs and trees in your school grounds or garden find out about what species will fare best for the conditions that may be expected in your area.

Consider what areas of your school ground or garden will benefit most from the shade that the trees will provide. If you know a bit about the soils in your area the website ‘The Right Trees for a Changing Climate’ has an excellent tree search tool that will help you find suitable species for your location.

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