The ‘climatic world’ in which many of our botanic gardens and landscapes were created is already gone and profound challenges confront us into the future. It has been estimated that “in the next 50 years, 20-50% of plants in botanic and urban landscapes will face temperatures never experienced before” (Dr Dave Kendal, Senior Lecturer in Environmental Management, University of Tasmania).

To respond to these risks, BGCI is working as a partner with the Climate Change Alliance of Botanic Gardens (Alliance), Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria and the University of Tasmania to develop a Climate Risk Assessment Tool for listings in BGCI’s PlantSearch database, and initially focusing on the c. 20,000 tree species grown in the world’s botanic gardens. This Tool is expected to provide support for botanic gardens to evaluate and manage the climate change threats faced by their living collections. We need input from our members and involvement through the provision of their expertise and data i.e. collection holdings.

Further, membership of the Alliance is free and there are no demanding requirements—just a commitment to climate change actions (large or small) for safeguarding the legacy of our plant collections, landscapes, and biodiversity for future generations.

Importantly for those gardens who have not yet started adaptation planning, even sharing initial questions, needs, or concerns can be a valuable contribution to this emerging community, as those can help guide the work ahead.

Our member’s unique capabilities, experiences and perspectives are essential to fully support the botanical community of arborists, botanists, horticulturists, and scientists who protect plants and landscapes worldwide.

Benefits of Alliance membership include access to:

• climate risk assessment tools and resources
• a global pool of diverse expertise and support
• increased community profile
• enhancements to skills and techniques to identify and manage climate change impacts

Please see links below for free membership and further information:

• Climate Change Alliance of Botanic Gardens membership page
• The Alliance Charter

We look forward to welcoming you to the global movement that is the Climate Change Alliance of Botanic Gardens.

On behalf of the CCABG Secretariat
Peter Symes
Curator Horticulture, Melbourne Gardens, Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria
peter.symes@rbg.vic.gov.au