Kew Scientists Call for Stronger Plant and Forest Protection at COP31

Scientists warn that protecting plants, forests, and biodiversity is essential for helping ecosystems survive rising temperatures and other environmental threats.

Kew Highlights the Role of Plants in Climate Protection

In an official statement released on November 9, Kew outlined how its research supports forest restoration, biodiversity conservation, and climate adaptation.

One important area is understanding how trees respond to drought, pests, and diseases. Researchers are studying which species can survive changing conditions and how genetic diversity can help forests remain healthy.

Another priority is protecting wild relatives of crops. These plants may contain useful traits, such as drought tolerance, that could help scientists develop more resilient food crops.

Keep Plants Thriving

Get simple care guidance tailored to each plant’s needs in the app

Try Botan Now

Why Plant Diversity Matters for a Changing Climate

According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), restoring damaged ecosystems, protecting natural habitats, and reducing environmental pressures can improve biodiversity's resilience to climate change.

Different plant species respond differently to heat, drought, and disease. A forest containing a variety of suitable species may therefore be better prepared for environmental changes than one depending heavily on a single species.

The IPBES Nexus Assessment also highlights the close connections between biodiversity, water, food production, and human health.

What Happens Next?

At COP31, Kew hopes to encourage greater investment in plant conservation, forest protection, and scientific monitoring.

Its work demonstrates why climate planning should consider entire ecosystems rather than focusing only on carbon emissions.

For cities, farms, and natural forests, choosing suitable plant species and protecting existing biodiversity could become increasingly important as climate conditions continue to change.