Aerial imagery of a restored wetland in England “reveals what local weather resilience may appear like throughout the UK”, a number one conservation charity has mentioned.
From above, the Holnicote Property in Somerset (pictured) seems lush and inexperienced, in stark distinction to the parched panorama round it.
In keeping with the Nationwide Belief, that’s as a result of ecologists on the property have reconnected rivers, restored wetlands and reintroduced beavers in a bid to retain water. On the finish of what’s anticipated to be the most popular summer time on report within the UK, the method seems to have labored.
“For generations, as a nation we’ve drained wetlands, straightened rivers and moved water off the land as shortly as potential – right here we’ve reversed that method and the outcomes are exceptional,” mentioned Ben Eardley, venture supervisor on the Nationwide Belief, which runs the property.
The UK has misplaced round 90% of its wetlands over the past century. Restoring them may assist it to develop into extra local weather resilient, the belief argues.
“Proof reveals that nature-based options can cut back flood threat, enhance water high quality, enhance biodiversity and construct resilience to drought,” mentioned Eardley. “Nature shouldn’t be seen as a value of local weather adaptation. It ought to be seen as certainly one of our best allies.”
Associated: How rewilding may assist cease the unfold of wildfires
Picture: Nationwide Belief/Steve Sayers
Foremost picture: iStock/NicolasMcComber
