Extreme weather events are putting local ecosystems at risk, says Herts charity
Rare chalk streams are among many nature-rich environments exposed to droughts and pollution
Hertfordshire's rare chalk streams are among many nature-rich places under increasing pressure due to the decline of a healthy environment.
The Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust is highlighting the importance of diverse habitats in the region, which are increasingly exposed to external and damaging factors, such as peaks in temperature in the summer which can cause droughts, and flooding in the winter.
Tim Hill, Conservation Manager at Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust, said: "My own view is that clearly we have a climate crisis, but we have a nature crisis."
"We know that the science tells us that we need to have 30% of our land managed for nature by 2030 and we need to get all of those habitats back in good condition, so we need an integrated approach to tackling both."
According to him, diverse ecosystems are more resilient to the impacts of climate change.
He said: "Woodlands and trees capture carbon, but other habitats play a really important role as well. Our approach is to try and mix them up, but to make sure that all of those habitats are in good condition."
The Trust manages over 40 nature reserves across Hertfordshire and Middlesex, focusing on maximising habitat diversity.
While species are being lost every year, this strategy, according to Hill, is crucial for adapting to climate change, which is already bringing new species to the region.
For Sarah Perry, Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust's River Catchment Coordinator, one of the most precious aspects of local wildlife are chalk streams.
Hertfordshire is host to 10% of these rivers worldwide, which she compared to to the Amazon rainforest in terms of rarity.
However like other nature-rich environments, these streams are under significant pressure from climate change and urbanisation.
Ms Perry said: "For a chalk river to be in good health, they need to have clean, stable water with good flow all year round."
"Natural features that have been lost from the river, when put back, increase its resilience to climate change impacts."
The Trust’s efforts are seen as critical in ensuring that the region's diverse habitats can continue to support both existing and new species while also playing a significant role in mitigating the impacts of climate change.