Taking Action

So what can we do?

We can act now to support our wild species and spaces. By ensuring management creates the space for species, ecosystems and natural processes to adapt to climate change, the potential rewards are priceless.

Here are some examples of success stories

Restoring water levels of peatlands

Raising the water table of peatlands and bogs that have been previously drained allows peat building plants such as sphagnum moss to grow thus helping to  retain and enhance carbon storage, and increasing insect fauna, moorland birds etc.  Examples can be found at Sleach Bog, Parkin's Moss   and Methven Moss  .

Creation of floodplains

We can use the capacity of floodplains to reduce flooding downstream through flood water storage such as at the Mill of Gellan  or White cart Water.

Creation of wetlands

Vegetation and wetland habitats can play a major role in slowing run-off from catchments and absorbing overspill within flood plains - find out more - River Ettrick flood plain enhancement 

Coastal habitat creation

As sea level rises, saltmarshes, sand dunes and coastal lagoons can be lost if there is limited space for them to move inland or hard coastal defences prevents it. Where possible, managed realignment allows coastal habitats to adapt to sea-level rise as well as providing a soft defence service (Find out more - Nigg Bay)

Connecting woodlands

Habitat corridors between woodland sites may help play a role in helping species adapt to climate change. By improving extent, area and condition of woodlands we can also improve resilience to the effects of climate change.  Find out more about native woodland restoration at the Carrifran Wildwood   or Glen Finglas  .

Urban greenspace

In towns and cities we can use native shrubs and trees around buildings and in public spaces. When managed with wildlife in mind, gardens and greenspace can contribute to helping biodiversity adapt to climate change. Find out more - Calder Park Community Woodland  , Drylaw Field Community Greenspace  .