Energy efficiency is good for wildlife and the environment

The energy we use at home predominantly comes from burning fossil fuels (coal, oil and gas) at power stations. This releases greenhouse gases (in particular carbon dioxide) that trap heat in the atmosphere and cause the climate to warm.

Climate change is affecting our wildlife and habitats; we can help mitigate the extent to which it does so by reducing our carbon outputs.

A certain amount of warming is now unstoppable because of gases that have already been emitted.

* In the best-case scenario we can aim to contain global warming to 2C however there will still be considerable impacts on species and habitats.

* At 4C global average temperature rise, there will be many species lost, fewer sustainable land management options and enormous financial cost to the UK economy.

* In the worst-case scenario of a 6C temperature rise, the outlook is dire.

These changes could significantly threaten the UK’s biodiversity. Many species will not be able to adapt quickly enough to keep up with changes in habitats. The South West Observatory Environment Team (2006) give details of the impact of climate change in the region on their website some examples are highlighted below.

* The future of the Dormouse (Muscardinus avellanariusis) threatened by warmer summers and milder winters affecting its habitat.

* Nearly 20% of Enland’s ancient woodland is found in the South West. Many of its characteristic species have poor dispersal and will be unable to migrate or adapt quickly enough to survive.

* The survival of several UK species, such as the native Bluebell (Hyacinthoides non-scripta) may be under threat as trees are coming into leaf earlier, which blocks vital sunlight from reaching the Bluebells. The vibrant carpets of Wiltshire’s Bluebell woods may disappear.

* Daffodils, crocuses, snowdrop and primula may also be on their way out.

* The large heath butterfly, which is adapted to harsher winter weather, could be affected by warmer winters.

* We will see the arrival of non-native invasive species and diseases, which may have a detrimental impact on biodiversity.

Threats to wildlife rich habitats not only endanger refuges for plants and animals, but also put at risk the ecological services that are essential for people. For example, wetlands can improve hydrological stability and reduce flood risk, intertidal habitats can minimise the effects of sea level rise, the provision of green roofs can provide a natural cooling system to counter urban island heat effects, and natural habitats can provide carbon storage.

If we make the right decisions now, we can minimise this impact.

For more information on how to help wildlife and the environment by being more energy efficient call your local Energy Saving Trust Centre on 0800 512012