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Lichens are everywhere but often go unnoticed. They are a vital part of our ecosystems and play crucial roles in environmental health. But they are struggling in our polluted and developing world. Donate today to make a positive impact in preserving and protecting these remarkable organisms.
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Beneficiaries
Situation
There are lichens that grow in the UK and nowhere else. Lichens indicate air pollution levels, are used by birds to build nests, feed and shelter insects and are even used in medicine too. But as one of the least understood organisms, their survival is threatened. Common lichens can be found everywhere but rarer species need established habitats like temperate rainforests to thrive. Lichens are facing significant challenges from air pollution, habitat loss, tree diseases and climate change.
Solution
We’ll train and inspire land managers and enthusiasts to better understand lichens and give them practical skills to manage habitats better, map and research lichens to improve understanding and work with decision-makers on policies to protect and restore rainforests while reducing the threat from air pollution. We’ll advise on managing trees with ash dieback to help conserve their lichens and translocate rare species. Plantlife is shining a light on lichens this Christmas to secure their future