Irish Forestry Case Study

Introduction:
Irish forests are very diverse, ranging from native woodlands to trees and woods in and around our towns and cities. Benefits of Ireland’s forest cover is very diverse, extending beyond basic timber production to encompass employment, bio-diversity, wildlife conservation, environmental protection, rural development, carbon sequestration, amenity and recreation, and tourism. This easy will focus on how climate change is affecting Irish forestry. Forests are particularly sensitive to climate change, because the long life-span of trees does not allow for rapid adaptation to environmental changes. (Lindner, M et al 2010)
Forests act as a sink for greenhouse gases, they help to mitigate the effects of climate change. However changing
If climate change in Ireland results in a significant reduction in water availability, then the forest system will naturally change species composition. The spread of pathogens such as Chalara fraxinea ash dieback disease and Phytophthora species is being attributed to climate change. The changing climatic conditions are making previously unfavourable ecological conditions more assessable to alien species and pathogens. Another driver of climate change and loss of biodiversity is deforestation, the cutting down of trees to make room for agricultural land is simply adding to the amount of greenhouse gases worldwide, especially where there is an increase in farmed ruminant animals like cattle and sheep. Deforestation is a major cause of the loss of biological diversity and is a significant global concern (Brockerhoff, E.G et al
While more extreme weather events like forest fires, wind damage and other extreme events may result in economic damage to the forestry sector, other problems such as reductions in biodiversity along with negative impacts on soil erosion and hydrology will also cause major problems. Ireland’s trees and woodland will be affected by climate change and plans must be put in place to help reduce this. Many pests and diseases are likely to benefit from the changing climate. The impact of Irelands changing climate means that we must remain vigilant in reporting new invasive species and altered patterns of damage. Climate change is a global issue that is starting to become apparent in many areas of the world. The rising levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide and methane are enhancing the natural greenhouse effect and accelerating irreversible changes in the climate. This rise of greenhouse gases is leading to higher temperatures worldwide, these changes may be irreversible. Not only does climate change affect biodiversity but it also affects all aspects of our