The role of nature-based solutions in protecting threatened plant species

Plant species are the foundation of ecosystems, providing essential services including oxygen production, carbon sequestration and habitat for countless organisms. 

It is estimated that

80% of the world’s terrestrial biodiversity depends on healthy plant ecosystems

. However, many plant species face different threats today, including habitat loss, climate change, invasive species and over-exploitation. For instance, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), over

40% of the world’s plant species

are currently at risk of extinction. These challenges have led to a concerning decline in biodiversity, with an estimated 68% decrease in global wildlife populations since 1970, underscoring the urgent need for effective conservation efforts. 

The interconnectedness of all species within an ecosystem cannot be overstated. The survival of one species often depends on the health of others, creating a delicate balance. When a plant species goes extinct, it can trigger negative effects, leading to the decline of other species, including those that humans rely on for food supply, medicine and clean air. 

Nature-based solutions (NbS) use natural processes to restore and sustain ecosystems, and ensure the survival of different species. Therefore, preserving ecosystems through NbS not only safeguards plant species but also ensures the well-being of human and animal populations by maintaining the ecosystem services that are vital for our survival.

The round-leaved sundew (Drosera rotundifolia) is a carnivorous plant native to northern temperate regions. This small, perennial herb has distinctive round leaves covered in glandular hairs that secrete a sticky substance to trap and digest insects. The plant typically grows in moist, acidic soils within bogs and wet heathlands. By trapping and digesting insects, the plant obtains necessary nutrients that are scarce in its nutrient-poor environment. This insectivorous diet helps maintain the balance of insect populations and contributes to the overall health of the wetland ecosystems. 

The round-leaved sundew faces several threats, primarily due to habitat loss and degradation. Draining of wetlands for agricultural purposes, peat extraction and pollution negatively impact its delicate environment. Climate change also poses a threat by altering the hydrology of peatlands and increasing the frequency of extreme weather events, which can disrupt the specific conditions needed for the sundew to thrive.

Earthly supports the Tree Planting in central Scotland project,

whose restoration efforts include diverse tree planting, peatland restoration, pond creation, and revitalising degraded meadows. By working with a team of ecologists, foresters, and peatland managers, and collaborating with local experts and communities, a holistic approach ensures that species like the round-leaved sundew will benefit from the improved conditions and contribute to the overall restoration goals.

Succisa pratensis, commonly known as devil's-bit or devil's-bit scabious, is a wildflower topped with distinctive clusters of violet-blue, pincushion-like flowers. The plant can grow up to 1 metre tall on long, slender stems, with its four-lobed petals adding to its delicate appearance. The name "devil's-bit" originates from an old legend that the devil, jealous of the plant's healing properties, bit off its root, which is why the root appears truncated as if bitten.

The devil's bit scabious supports biodiversity, particularly as a food source for pollinators. It is especially important for the rare and endangered Marsh Fritillary butterfly, whose larvae depend on its leaves for nourishment. Bees and other insects are also drawn to its nectar-rich flowers, making it an important component of a healthy, sustainable ecosystem. Its presence in damp meadows, marshes, and grassy areas across Europe often indicates a biodiverse and thriving habitat.

Habitat loss due to climate change, agricultural expansion, drainage of wetlands and changes in land use are the main factors contributing to the decline of this wildflower.

hrough supporting the Montgreenan woodland regeneration project

in East Ayrshire, Scotland, Earthly is actively working to protect and restore the natural habitats where Succisa pratensis flourish. 

The oak tree (Quercus genus) is native to the Northern Hemisphere, including regions in North America, Europe and Asia. Oaks thrive in a variety of environments, particularly in temperate and subtropical climates with well-drained soils. They are characterised by their sturdy trunks, which become deeply furrowed and rugged with age, and their broad, spreading canopies. Oak leaves vary in shape and size, often lobed or serrated, and display a striking range of colours - from dark green in spring and summer to vibrant reds, yellows, or browns in autumn. Oaks can grow up to 70-100 feet tall, with trunks reaching up to 13 feet in diameter, making them one of the largest trees in the forest.

Oak trees’ acorns are a food source for many wildlife species, including deer, squirrels and birds. The branches and leaves of oak trees provide shelter for insects and nesting sites for birds, while their extensive root systems help stabilise the soil, preventing erosion. Additionally, as oak trees age and eventually decay, they enrich the soil with organic matter, fostering a healthy environment for other plants and microorganisms. 

Despite their ecological importance, oak trees face deforestation, driven by urbanisation and agricultural, which has led to the loss of oak forests worldwide. Additionally, diseases such as oak wilt and sudden oak death, spread by fungi and other pathogens, pose serious risks to oak populations, leading to large-scale die-offs in some regions. 

Earthly is supporting the conservation and restoration of forests containing oak trees. One notable project is the

Luckaitz Valley forest adaptation initiative in Germany

, where over 600 hectares of pine forest are being transformed into a biodiverse, near-natural and climate-resilient forest that includes oak trees. 

The Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris) - recognised as Scotland’s national tree - is one of the tallest and longest-living tree species in Europe. It is native to Europe and Asia but uniquely adapts to a variety of soil types and climates. In the UK, it stands out as the only truly native pine species. The Scots Pine is easily recognisable by its tall, straight trunk and distinctive orange-red bark. Its blue-green needles, arranged in pairs, can grow up to 7cm long. Scots Pines can live up to 700 years, with some individuals estimated to be over 760 years, making them symbols of strength and endurance.

Scots Pines dense canopies provide shelter and nesting sites for a variety of wildlife, including birds, squirrels and insects. The tree’s extensive root system is vital for stabilising soil, preventing erosion, and maintaining the health of its habitat. 

Despite its resilience, the Scots Pine faces deforestation, driven by land conversion for agriculture and urban development, which has led to the fragmentation and loss of Scots Pine forests.

Earthly is actively contributing to the conservation and restoration of majestic Scots Pine forests through the

Tree Sponsorship Program in Scotland

that is planting Scots Pine, along with other native species, to restore biodiversity and strengthen ecosystems. 

The African cherry tree (Prunus africana), also known as the red stinkwood, is native to the highland forests of Africa. It is recognisable by its rough, fissured bark and glossy, dark green leaves, and can grow up to 40 metres tall. It is highly valued for its medicinal properties, particularly the bark, which is used in treating prostate conditions. The tree produces small, white or cream-coloured flowers and red or brownish-black fruits.

The African Cherry Tree fruits provide sustenance for birds and other wildlife, while its presence in the forest contributes to maintaining biodiversity. The tree's extensive root system helps stabilise soil, reducing erosion and promoting water retention, which help prevent landslides and maintain the health of nearby water bodies. 

The African Cherry Tree is prone to overharvesting of its bark for medicinal purposes which has led to population declines. Habitat loss due to deforestation, agricultural expansion and land-use changes further endanger this species. 

Through our support of the

Upper Tana-Nairobi Water Fund (UTNWF) project

, Earthly is working to protect and restore the habitat of the African Cherry Tree. By implementing agroforestry techniques, including fruit orchards, alley cropping and boundary planting, the project is restoring forest habitats and preventing further agricultural expansion that damages water supplies. 

Mangroves, including the grey, red and yellow varieties, are a unique and resilient tree species that thrive in coastal intertidal zones:

Their complex root systems stabilise coastlines, reduce erosion and protect inland areas from storm surges. They also act as carbon sinks, with the ability to sequester up to four times more carbon than tropical rainforests. Additionally, these trees provide breeding and nursery grounds for many marine species, supporting biodiversity and local fisheries.

In Madagascar, like many other regions, these trees are being cleared for agriculture, aquaculture and urban expansion, leading to habitat loss, reduced biodiversity, and increased vulnerability to climate impacts.

Earthly supports the Mangrove Regeneration Maroalika project in Madagascar

that focuses on reforestation. The project aims to plant 500 million trees annually by 2025, significantly contributing to environmental sustainability and community well-being.

Frankincense trees (Boswellia sacra) are renowned for their aromatic resin, traditionally used in incense and medicine. These trees are typically small to medium-sized, reaching up to 10 metres in height. They have a distinctive appearance with gnarled, twisted branches, thick leaves and a smooth, light-coloured bark that exudes a fragrant, milky resin when tapped.

Frankincense trees play a big sustainability role in arid and semi-arid ecosystems due to their ability to thrive in dry and harsh conditions. Their extensive root systems help stabilise the soil, preventing erosion and maintaining soil health. They also contribute to local biodiversity by providing habitat and food for various insects and birds.

Overharvesting of their resin can deplete tree populations, while land degradation due to deforestation, drought, and overgrazing exacerbates their decline. Climate change further intensifies these challenges by altering rainfall patterns and increasing the frequency of extreme weather events, which can negatively impact these trees’ health and survival.

Earthly supports the

EthioTrees highland restoration project in the Tembien Highlands of Tigray

, Ethiopia, which is dedicated to restoring degraded landscapes through natural regeneration and active reforestation. The project focuses on planting native tree species, including frankincense, and setting up “exclosures” to prevent livestock grazing, allowing ecosystems to recover.

The holly tree (Ilex aquifolium) is an iconic evergreen tree, known for its dark green, spiky leaves and bright red berries. It is native to Europe, western Asia and North Africa. This small to medium-sized tree can grow up to 15 metres tall and is often found in woodland areas, hedgerows and gardens. Its glossy leaves and vibrant berries have made it a symbol of winter and festivity, especially in European cultures.

Their dense canopy provides shelter and nesting sites for various bird species, while its berries offer a valuable food source for birds and small mammals during the winter months when other resources are scarce.

Like many other tree species, holly trees face threats from habitat loss, deforestation, and climate change. Changes in weather patterns, such as increased droughts or unseasonal storms, can stress holly trees, affecting their growth and health. Additionally, they are vulnerable to pests and diseases that thrive in changing climates, further exacerbating their decline in natural habitats.

The Forest Adaptation Project in Luckaitz Valley

is tackling the challenges posed by climate change in Germany, where many forests are under threat. The project focuses on converting uniform pine forests into biodiverse, near-natural and climate-resilient ecosystems. 

The yew tree (Taxus baccata) is a long-living evergreen conifer native to Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia. It is known for its dense, dark green foliage and distinctive red berries, and can live for thousands of years -with some ancient specimens in Europe dating back over 2,000 years. This slow-growing tree can reach heights of up to 20 metres and has a striking presence in woodlands, parks and churchyards. Historically, the yew has been revered for its longevity and mystical associations, making it a symbol of eternal life in various cultures.

Yew trees’ dense canopies provide shelter for birds and small, particularly in winter when other trees shed their leaves. The tree’s red, fleshy arils (berry-like structures) are also a food source. Yews will contribute to the health of forest ecosystems by stabilising soil with their deep roots and supporting understorey biodiversity with their shade-tolerant nature.

Despite their resilience and longevity, yew trees face threats from habitat loss, deforestation and climate change. Additionally, the tree’s slow growth rate makes it particularly susceptible to these pressures, because it takes longer to recover from environmental damage compared to faster-growing species.

The Forest Restoration Project in Mijares, Spain

, aims to restore a mountainous terrain that has been severely impacted by wildfires, by planting native trees like the yew. With the support of Earthly, the project is helping to rebuild the forest's biodiversity and resilience against future environmental challenges. 

Nature-based solutions are essential in addressing environmental challenges like biodiversity loss, carbon removal, and climate change, while also supporting livelihoods. 

By

supporting Earthly’s high impact verified projects

, you’re helping to protect and restore endangered plant species and their ecosystems through sustainable, nature-led initiatives. 

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