Prof Richard Primack

Over the past two decades, researchers and others involved in plant science have developed innovative and powerful methods to investigate the effects of climate change on plants. First, international networks of botanical gardens are using their diverse collections to understand plant responses to climate change, test possible conservation actions, and engage the public in climate change science. Second, scientists are using historical databases of plant phenology and abundance to determine how climate change has already affected plants. Third, millions of herbarium specimens and photographs of plants are being digitized, allowing researchers to study flowering and leafing out times at unprecedented geographic, temporal, and taxonomic scales. And fourth, community and citizen science programs have greatly expanded, increasing the data available to researchers and engaging the public in climate change research.

The insights gained from these diverse approaches will greatly advance our understanding of the effects of past climate change and anticipate the impacts of future climate change on plants and ecosystems around the world.