A moorland fire destroying precious upland habitat

The nature and climate emergency

The nature and climate emergency is the biggest threat in our lifetime. But if we act soon, and fast, we can do something about it. We must ensure our decision-makers do the right thing for nature, climate and ourselves. Our time is now.

Two members of the public chat with an RSPB representative about ground nesting seabirds at the beach

Why RSPB is tackling the climate crisis

As our climate warms, both people and the wildlife we love will be affected. More extreme weather will cause droughts, wildfires, flooding and irreversible changes to nature. One in ten UK species is already at risk of extinction and over half of UK wildlife is in decline. If we do not solve the nature and climate emergency together, some of the wildlife we see today could be lost for good if we don’t act.


But it’s not all bad news. Many of our natural habitats like peatlands, native forests and oceans hold the answer to locking in carbon and reducing emissions to help keep global warming below 1.5°C. In turn, the recovery of these natural habitats means that wonderful species can thrive again.


The RSPB, with your support, is working hard to make a difference. We have the knowledge and understand the solutions. Now we need the UK’s leaders to commit to targets in law that will revive our world.

Climate change is affecting puffins and blue tits

Climate change isn’t an apocalyptic worst-case scenario future. It’s happening now. You must have noticed more unpredictable weather, wetter summers and berries ripening at the ‘wrong’ time. Wildlife isn’t safe either, as climate change is also affecting our most-loved species, including puffins and blue tits.

Effects on wildlife

Can nature save us from the climate crisis?

The answer is right in front of us.

The recovery of nature isn’t just vital for its own sake – it can also help us tackle the climate crisis head-on. In turn, the recovery of nature means that wonderful species can thrive again. We all win!

Peat bogs, for example, take climate-heating carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere, and also reduce flood risk. Even better, they support threatened species such as curlews. A wonder-habitat. Hedgerows absorb carbon, and also provide a home for insects that birds feed on, and in autumn, are often full of berries too – another tasty snack. Street trees in cities also have a role to play in combating climate change, cooling the air, and providing shade.

Harnessing the power of nature

What we’re doing to make a difference

From lobbying government for new climate polices to helping our nature reserves cope with the effects of climate change, here are some of the examples of what we're doing.

Our climate change campaign
A woman at a climate march holding a sign that reads 'Respect our planet'

Do more for nature

The nature and climate emergency affects the wildlife we love but together, we can make change happen.

Find out how taking a #MyClimateAction for nature and the climate, no matter how large or small, can make a difference.

Make change happen

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