Let nature heal climate and biodiversity crises, say campaigners

Restoration of forests and coasts can tackle 'existential crises' but is being overlooked

" Read the letter from campaigners
" George Monbiot: the natural world can help save us from climate catastrophe

The restoration of natural forests and coasts can simultaneously tackle climate change and the annihilation of wildlife but is being worryingly overlooked, an international group of campaigners have said.

Animal populations have fallen by 60% since 1970, suggesting a sixth mass extinction of life on Earth is under way, and it is very likely that carbon dioxide will have to be removed from the atmosphere to avoid the worst impacts of global warming. Trees and plants suck carbon dioxide from the air as they grow and also provide vital habitat for animals.