New Report from Greenbelt Foundation and Royal Botanical Gardens Shows How Climate Change Impacts Gardening

"Gardening in a Changing Climate" identifies how gardeners can take action in their own yards to reduce impacts of climate change in our region

Toronto, Sept. 25, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Greenbelt Foundation has partnered with the Royal Botanical Gardens for this first report in a new series exploring how a changing climate impacts day-to-day activities enjoyed by Ontarians in and around the Greenbelt. Gardening in a Changing Climate identifies how gardening is already being impacted by climate change and actions home gardeners can take to adapt to and mitigate these impacts.

The In a Changing Climate series will explore how everything from health to hockey is impacted by climate change in the Greater Golden Horseshoe, in partnership with experts from a range of organizations. Along with identifying these impacts, the series highlights the role of the Greenbelt in mitigating climate impacts and the important ways we can individually and collectively respond to these challenges.

Gardeners can expect more damage to their gardens from severe storms and an increase in invasive species like Garlic Mustard and Dog-strangling Vine. Extreme heat and drought, and rapid transition between seasons will put increased stress on plants and pollinators. These impacts are already being felt at the Royal Botanical Gardens, home to more species of wild plants than in any other area in the country.

“The collective impact of gardens can make a huge difference in how communities mitigate and adapt to climate change.” observes Royal Botanical Gardens’ CEO, Mark Runciman. “More than just pretty places, they can be part of their community’s green infrastructure.”

“The In a Changing Climate series aims to make connections between activities many of us love, like gardening, and the impacts a changing climate is already having, but more importantly the actions we are all empowered to take to mitigate these impacts,” says Edward McDonnell, CEO of the Greenbelt Foundation. “The Greenbelt itself is a form of positive climate action that is directly benfiting residents now, and with proper investment it will help us and our communities adapt to climate change.”

Gardening In a Changing Climate is available at www.greenbelt.ca/changing_climate, along with other resources including a shareable two-page summary. 

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About the Greenbelt:
Ontario’s Greenbelt is the solution for fresh air, clean water, healthy local food, active outdoor recreation, and a thriving economy. At nearly 2 million acres, it’s the world’s largest permanently protected greenbelt, keeping our farmlands, forests, and wetlands safe and sustainable. The Greenbelt Foundation works to help keep farmers successful, strengthen local economies, protect natural features, and promote sustainable growth. Learn more at: greenbelt.ca.

About the Royal Botanical Gardens:
Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) is the largest botanical garden in Canada, a National Historic Site, and registered charitable organization with a mandate to bring together people, plants and nature. We dedicate our expertise in horticulture, conservation, science and education to connect people, plants and place for the purpose of nurturing and preserving healthy growing life on our planet.

Erica Woods
                    Greenbelt Foundation
                    416-960-0001 ext 306
                    ewoods@greenbelt.ca