Kew Gardens' Bold Steps to Combat Climate Change
Kew Gardens, a world-renowned botanical haven, is taking proactive measures to safeguard its future in the face of climate change. According to a recent report, over half of Kew's 11,000 trees could be at risk by the century's end due to rising temperatures and prolonged dry spells.
In response, Kew's scientists are planting resilient species from warmer climates such as southern Europe, Asia, and Central America. Species like fagres' fir, Iberian alder, cherry hackberry, and Montezuma's pine are being introduced to withstand projected climate conditions. Simon Toomer, curator for living collections at RBG Kew, assures that while the gardens will evolve, they will still be recognizable, with new species complementing the historic landscape.
Native species like oak and birch might still thrive if sourced from warmer regions, with seeds already being collected from countries like Romania and Serbia. The urgency of this initiative is underscored by the loss of over 400 trees in a 2002 drought, a stark contrast to the usual annual loss of about 30 trees.
RBG Kew is using sophisticated climate modeling to predict future conditions, revealing that up to 54% of their trees could be vulnerable by 2090. Despite these challenges, Kew's oldest trees, the "Old Lions," are expected to endure.
Richard Barley, a director at RBG Kew, stresses the need for a national plan to diversify plant selections in urban spaces and gardens. By focusing on resilience and adaptability, Kew Gardens aims to set a precedent for mitigating the severe impacts of climate change.
Join us in supporting Kew Gardens' visionary efforts to protect our botanical heritage for future generations.
More than half of Kew Gardens' 11,000 trees could be at risk by the end of the century due to climate change, according to its scientists. Trees such as English oak, beech, silver birch, and holly are vulnerable to warmer temperatures and prolonged dry spells. Kew Gardens is proactively replacing these trees with species from warmer regions like southern Europe, Asia, and Central America. These new species, such as fagres' fir, Iberian alder, cherry hackberry, and Montezuma's pine, are expected to withstand future climate conditions. The gardens, while retaining familiarity, will look different in the future.
The report "Planting for the Future" indicates that native species like oak and birch may remain resilient if sourced from warmer climates. RBG Kew has begun sourcing seeds from countries like Romania and Serbia. The report emphasizes the urgent need for a national plan to protect UK landscapes, highlighting the severe impacts of climate change. Scientists used various data models to predict that 54% of Kew's trees could be vulnerable by 2090. However, some older trees, known as "Old Lions," are expected to thrive. Richard Barley, RBG Kew director, calls for a broader approach to diversify plants in urban spaces and gardens to mitigate climate impacts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the main concern for Kew Gardens? Kew Gardens is concerned that over half of its 11,000 trees could be at risk due to climate change effects such as warmer temperatures and prolonged dry spells.
Which tree species are most vulnerable? Trees like English oak, beech, silver birch, and holly are particularly vulnerable to the changing climate.
What measures are being taken by Kew Gardens? Kew Gardens is planting more climate-resilient species from warmer regions, such as fagres' fir, Iberian alder, cherry hackberry, and Montezuma's pine.
Will Kew Gardens look different in the future? Yes, while it will retain some familiar aspects, Kew Gardens will feature more novel species that are drought-tolerant and suited to future climate conditions.
Is there a national plan to address this issue? The report highlights an urgent need for a national plan to protect UK landscapes from climate change impacts, suggesting a focus on resilience and adaptability.
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