‘State Of The World’s Trees Report’

published by Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI)(London, UK)

Photo taken by and belonging to the author, Sadie Seroxcat.

In 2015 Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI) launched the Global Tree Assessment study. From that, a 5 year survey of the world’s remaining trees - partnered with the Species Survival Commission (SSC) and working in conjunction with various NGOs, conservation groups, botanical gardens and the like - the information gathered has been collated and presented as the ‘State of the World’s Trees Report’.

That report is quite shocking. Due to contributing factors such as fire, flood, climate change, rising sea levels, logging and clearance for farming, the world is experiencing a biodiversity crisis. It would seem that around 30% of the world’s tree species are under current threat of extinction. That’s actually 17500 species (out of 60,000 globally), with 440 right on the brink of extinction — categorised as having fewer than 50 of each of these species remaining in the wild.

“The report finds hope for the future, however, as conservation efforts led by the botanical community worldwide are growing. Identifying which trees are at risk and ensuring these are protected is the most effective way to prevent extinction and restore endangered species. The report reveals that at least 64% of all tree species…