Welcome to our weekly environmental newsletter, focusing on trends and solutions driving sustainability. I’m Jill, shedding light on the U.K.’s annual plant hunt, a valuable tool for climate change research.
This week’s highlights include flowers blooming in January in the U.K., solar-powered electric vehicles, and a funeral home’s award-winning memorial forest.
Citizen science in the U.K. offers insights into climate change impacts, with data showing an increase in native plant species blooming on Jan. 1 due to rising temperatures. The annual New Year Plant Hunt, now in its 15th year, engages thousands of participants tracking blooming patterns, revealing a significant surge in recorded species compared to historical expectations.
Louise Marsh from the Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland emphasizes the shift towards collecting scientific data through citizen science. The event, initially for botanists, has evolved into a community-driven initiative with diverse participation highlighting the changing biodiversity landscape.
The initiative’s success lies in the detailed observations made by individuals, surpassing what satellites and drones can offer. Debbie Hemming from the U.K.’s Met Office sees the collaboration between citizen science and weather monitoring as a powerful combination.
Similar citizen science studies in Canada demonstrate the effectiveness of public engagement in monitoring climate impacts. Hemming aims to collaborate with other citizen science networks to enhance understanding of climate change effects on nature.
Marsh encourages everyone to engage in observing wildlife changes, stressing that no expertise is required to contribute. The message is clear: observation is key to understanding and addressing environmental challenges.
In a separate development, Reid Funeral Home in Ontario wins an environmental award for its decades-long tradition of planting trees in memory of deceased individuals. This practice, rooted in community and sustainability, has created a thriving memorial forest, showcasing the enduring impact of tree-planting rituals.
The funeral home’s commitment to sustainability extends to offering eco-friendly options and contributing to conservation efforts. The tree-planting initiative, coupled with other green practices, reflects a dedication to honoring lives while nurturing the ecosystem.
Thank you for reading. For questions, feedback, or story suggestions, contact us at whatonearth@cbc.ca. Stay tuned for our next newsletter every Thursday.
Editors: Emily Chung and Hannah Hoag | Logo design: Sködt McNalty