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limate change puts the health of our natural ecosystems at risk; increased drought and increased flooding combined with higher overall temperatures will inevitably change, and already is changing, the types and varieties


of species that thrive in Somerset. We already know that some species hibernating patterns are changing, and some invertebrates life cycles are no longer synchronised with the bird species that depend on them. In the coming years we will face stark choices about building a resilient environment that is able to adapt to the changing climate or trying to preserve the species and landscapes we currently have. It may not be possible to keep some species thriving in the county as a result of inevitable climate change. We must face this reality which may mean choosing not to fight the inevitable. We must be honest about these choices and together agree how to adapt to a changing climate that means Somerset has wildlife-rich landscapes for future generations to enjoy.


As a mainly low-lying county, Somerset is one of the places in the UK on the front line of climate change that will be significantly impacted by sea level rises, storm events and droughts. We must engage with decision makers to consider a long-term vision for Somerset that adapts to climate change considering nature, infrastructure, housing and the economy.


Climate change mitigation means actions to reduce or prevent emissions of greenhouse gases. These actions can be technological; renewable energies, sustainable transport, sustainable agricultural practices or natural through restored healthy functioning ecological systems (woodlands for instance) that suck greenhouse gases out of the atmosphere.


Climate change adaptation refers to actions taken to adjust to a warming world and reduce the risks. Examples of adaptation include changing building design, focusing on different crops with better chance of survival, or preparing for rising water levels with flood defences. Natural adaptation methods improve the resilience of our ecosystems: well-functioning wetland habitats including making space for water on floodplains can provide natural flood risk reduction and planting trees in our towns and cities to provide much needed shade.


Whether aiming to mitigate against climate change or adapting to a changing climate, investing in nature’s recovery at a landscape scale will have significant multiple benefits.


Where do you think Somerset Wildlife Trust should focus its efforts to provide positive solutions to climate change, for the greatest impact across the county?


How would you rank these in order of priority?


• Creating, restoring and managing landscapes and habitats that can capture carbon – wetlands, woodlands, saltmarsh, urban greening.


• Building resilience for our wildlife populations and vulnerable habitats by creating a strong network of well joined green spaces across the county so wildlife can move freely.


• Campaigning at a local and national government level to lobby for better regulation and funding with regards to sustainable agricultural and development policy.


• Working with farmers to encourage and support them to farm with wildlife and pollinators in mind, manage land in a sustainable way, to contribute positively as part of a nature recovery network, and to help provide natural landscape resilience to climate change.


• Encouraging members, supporters, and the public to improve the biodiversity of their own green space irrespective of size.


• Creating a next generation of wildlife and environmental campaigners and guardians through education programmes aimed at youth audiences and by providing education, training and leadership opportunities.


• Preparing our reserves for the climate changes that are inevitable by adapting habitats to form climate resilient ecosystems.


• Creating a county wide biodiversity and carbon offsetting option for investment in natural solutions to climate change from activities that continue to emit carbon.


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