KLIMATTOLERANS HOS URBANA TRÄD I GÖTEBORG: Analys av klimatgränser och framtida klimathot

Abstract

Urban trees contribute significantly to our society. By providing ecosystem services and a habitat that other urban species and ecosystems depend on, both biodiversity and the people in the city benefit. Some characteristics that the trees possess include functioning as biological filters for the atmosphere and water, as well as positively impacting people's mental health. However, urban trees are challenged by stressors such as pollution and a drier environment, making them particularly sensitive to climate change. The goal of this study was to estimate the expected magnitude of climate change in Gothenburg and compare it with the current urban species' natural climate boundaries to understand the extent of the climate threat and which species appear to be most at risk. Additionally, the current urban species were compared with a group of recommended species from Gothenburg municipality to assess if they would be better suited for the future climate. The results showed that the climate is becoming warmer, and precipitation is increasing, both in prolonged periods and shorter, more extreme periods, which will be challenging for the majority of the already planted urban tree species. This forms the basis for this study's encouragement of introducing new species, including exotic ones, as a solution. The recommended group of species proved to be more suitable for the expected climate, regarding both temperatures and precipitation. However, based solely on distribution data, it is difficult to determine specifically which species are best adapted to the future climate; more information about the individual species' adaptations, tolerances, and morphology is necessary to ensure a more specific and secure conclusion.