Climate protests are growing more common

Storms and flooding in Wales have caused millions of pounds in damage in recent years and global warming has been as the cause by Prime Minister Tony Blair.

But other less visible changes to the environment include threats to plant species.

Gradual rises in temperature or rainfall will leave their mark on woodlands.

There is also concern foreign pests and diseases which would not normally live here will in the future thrive.

Greenhouse gases

They could decimate ancient stands of oak and if the trees go so to a myriad of plants and animals which depend on them, from birds and butterflies to woodland funghi.

In a report published on Wednesday, the Woodland Trust suggested the first priority should be to address the causes of climate change and cut greenhouse gas emissions.

It also wanted work done to protect ancient woodlands.

The Welsh Assembly is being urged to play its part by tightening planning laws.

Woodlands - which provide important habitats for wildlife - have been reduced by half the last 70 years.