In the midst of a heatwave and severe drought this summer, Divya Hariramani was trimming a plum tree in south London when she observed an issue with one of its branches. The branch was starting to separate entirely from the tree, as the workers at Mitcham Community Orchard explained that it was due to the stress on the fruit tree caused by the intense heat.
London, known for its stone architecture, also boasts a mature urban forest, deemed the largest globally. However, this year has been challenging for the city’s lush canopy, with five consecutive heatwaves and significant rainfall deficits putting a strain on plants and wildlife. The future looks even bleaker for London’s eight million trees, as a recent report from the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew forecasts that by the end of the century, 73% of the city’s trees could be at risk of perishing due to climate change.
The Kew Gardens tree collections and arboriculture team collaborated with the Greater London Authority to evaluate over a million public trees. Their findings revealed that 62% of these trees currently have “low suitability” to future climate conditions without emissions reduction efforts, while nearly 11% are considered “vulnerable.” The impact of climate change is already evident, with 400 trees at Kew dying in 2022 due to extreme heat and drought conditions.
As London faces the reality of a changing climate, experts are considering planting different tree species more adaptable to the warming conditions. Joe Richomme, a botanical horticulturist at Kew Gardens, highlighted the need for trees that can thrive in a climate resembling present-day Barcelona by 2050.
Paul Wood, a renowned author focusing on London’s trees, expressed concerns about the fate of the city’s iconic tree-lined streets and ancient woodlands in the face of escalating heatwaves and drought. He emphasized the historical and ecological significance of London’s trees, some of which have stood for centuries, witnessing key historical events and providing vital support for biodiversity.
The challenges posed by climate change are becoming increasingly evident in London’s urban forest, underscoring the urgent need for proactive measures to protect and sustain the city’s green heritage.