Signs of change
Thursday 13th May 2010
Sofa springs will be tested next week as the UK settles down for the screening of three Springwatch specials. The first covers climate change and the associated challenges we, and wildlife, might face. And it looks at how The Wildlife Trusts are working to face those challenges.
Springwatch presenter, Chris Packham, presents the first hour-long show (Monday 17 May at 8pm, BBC Two) which examines how nature is showing us climate change is happening now. Shifts in seasonal changes threaten food chains which may have real consequences for some of our species and habitats.
Packham makes his predictions for wildlife losers and offers more positive predictions for ‘warming’ winners too. And, although some species will inevitably decrease in number or be lost, The Wildlife Trusts are working to create ‘A Living Landscape’, where there are suitable habitats across the UK for species to colonise and thrive. The Wildlife Trusts believe this is the only way to secure a truly sustainable future for wildlife.
In the programme, Packham says: “Climate change is just one more problem our plants and animals can do without. I feel a moral duty to take precautionary action to protect humankind. I’m bound to say this but I think we should be doing something to help species adapt to human-induced climate change, which is happening right now.
“If we don’t get conservation right then we won’t be able to help our wildlife through the challenges of global warming."
The Wildlife Trusts are working with landowners, partners, businesses and communities to achieve benefits for wildlife in urban areas and the wider countryside, creating, restoring and reconnecting habitats, as well as safeguarding protected areas like nature reserves.
In the programme, Chris Packham adds: “I can see the concept for Living Landscapes working all over the UK, creating a world which is valuable to people and to wildlife, as climate change puts pressure on both.”
Paul Wilkinson, The Wildlife Trusts’ head of Living Landscape, said: “We are thrilled Springwatch has taken the step of talking about a subject which climate change programmes rarely tackle – practical on-the-ground conservation. Over the years programmes, like Springwatch and Autumnwatch, have inspired millions to engage with wildlife and on many different levels. They celebrate nature and have an approach which involves and empowers the audience to take action for wildlife.
“Our natural world is precious. It inspires millions of us every day and provides us with essential services like flood protection, food, climate regulation, carbon absorption and pollination. These are fundamental to our health, well-being and a successful economy.
“This Springwatch special highlights how we are working to create environmental capital and giving wildlife and habitats an economic role to play in our society. Getting people inspired to get out and experience the natural environment is fabulous. There’s no doubt there are plenty of spectacles in the UK for us all to enjoy!”
Story by RSWT