Tree species native to the UK have adapted to the local environment of atmosphere and soils since the retreat of the last ice age approximately 10,000 years ago. There is now convincing evidence that this environment is changing. Therefore, it is not surprising that there is increasing concern of the likely impacts of climate change on the nation’s forests and woodlands.
The way in which the environment including climate affects tree growth is complex. The research that we are conducting aims to examine how climate change could impact on the process influencing growth and the health of trees:
The table below is a summary of the key changes in atmospheric and meteorological variables that affect tree growth and it explains the likely effects that any changes may have in the future.
| Variable | Beneficial effect | Detrimental effect |
|---|---|---|
Increase in growth rate. | Increase in leaf area and thus higher wind resistance. | |
Ozone pollution | None | Reduction in growth rate. |
Temperature | Longer growing season. | Delayed hardening. |
Rainfall | Reduced intensity of some foliar pathogens. | Winter waterlogging limiting access for forest operations. |
Wind | None | Increased risk of wind damage. |
Cloud cover | Increased potential productivity | Increased diurnal temperature range in autumn - increased risk of frost damage. |
See also
Implications of climate change on the historic environment
