Germanys forests under threat
Drought and hotter summers are killing Germany\u2019s spruce forests. They\u2019re a staple of the timber industry but are proving unable to cope with the consequences of climate change. Four out of five of Germany\u2019s trees show signs of sickness, according to the latest survey of the health of the country\u2019s forests. All tree species are affected. And although the last couple of years have seen more rain this hasn\u2019t been enough to compensate for the damage already done. \nOne third of Germany is forested and trees are seen as a means of absorbing carbon emissions, as well as a source of wood for the building industry and heating. Forests are also a popular destination for recreation \u2013 hiking, biking or simply relaxing. Caroline Bayley has been to some of the country\u2019s forests to find out what\u2019s being done to rescue Germany\u2019s trees before it\u2019s too late.
Producer/presenter: Caroline Bayley\nEditor: Penny Murphy\nStudio: Engineer Rod Farquhar\nProduction co-ordinator: Helena Warwick-Cross
(Photo: Harz mountains by Caroline Bayley)