The emissions of greenhouse gases are contributing to global warming. Even small changes to the Earth's temperature can have a major effect on biodivesity. Some predicted changes include a rise in sea level and a general warming of temperate regions.

These changes will result in shifts in the composition of aquatic and terrestrial communities, and changes in wildlife behaviour. The less mobile species on the edges of their geographical ranges are likely to be most vulnerable to extinctions when climatic conditions deteriorate.

Monitoring of vulnerable species and habitats will become an essential element in understanding and monitoring the effect of climate change on our local biodiversity. The long-term nature of climate change highlights the need for a long-term local strategy to maintain biodiversity.