Conservation and Novel Ecosystems in a Changing Climate

Climate change is resulting in species that have not previously had breeding populations in the UK arriving from further south, with some UK species becoming locally extinct as they migrate northwards. Rising temperatures will also affect introduced non-native species, making their non-native range viable for the first time and widening their presence. With the loss of native species, it is unclear whether we should welcome the novel ecosystems non-native species provide or not.  

The way many conservation organisations are funded also potentially delays a shift toward an understanding and acceptance of novel ecosystems. This event will ask what the novel ecosystems created by our changing climate will mean for how we practice, communicate and govern nature recovery in the future.  

The workshop will open with an opportunity to settle in with some light refreshments. We will then hear presentations from invited speakers oriented towards facilitating break-out group discussion. There will then be plenty of time for group discussion and feedback before the opportunity to continue conversations nearby in a more informal setting.  

Presentations:  

• Professor James Bullock (UKCEH) will discuss his research on resilience and ecosystem function in the context of novel ecosystems, and what practical lessons this work should have for nature recovery efforts across England.  
• Dr Jo Garrett (University of Exeter) will discuss public attitudes towards nature recovery, drawing on the work of the RENEW project.   

• Professor Tom Cameron (University of Essex) will discuss changing and novel coastal ecosystems, with a focus on how non-native species are and will continue to modify the European coastal landscape.   

• Further speakers are to be announced. 

Who Should Attend? 

We would love to attract a mixture of academics, policymakers, conservation practitioners and the wider interested public. Although prior knowledge will be beneficial during the breakout group discussions, the event is free to attend, and we welcome people from all career stages in the ecological community and beyond.  

Please Note:  

• The event is free to attend but please consider becoming a member of the British Ecological Society to support our work and hear first about similar events in the future.  

• Refreshments including light lunch options will be available on arrival. Tea and coffee will also be served.  

• Cancellation: If you can no longer attend, please contact us at [email protected].  

Host or Publisher British Ecological Society