Native woods and trees in urban areas, including gardens, provide haven for wildlife, reduce air pollution, surface run-off and flooding Reversing the declining numbers of native trees and woods in cities would provide numerous benefits at 'relatively little cost', says a report from the Woodland Trust. As well as access to green space, the report, 'Greening the Concrete Jungle', says trees provide a wide range of free ecosystem services including reducing the risk of surface water flooding and improving air quality that could save millions in flood defence and healthcare costs.

This Japanese documentary looks at three unique islands that may have been impacted by global warming: Tuvala in the South Pacific, Venice in Italy, and Shishmaref in Alaska. This documentary has very little dialogue and limited subtitles so the story relies almost entirely on the graphic visual presentation. The scenes in Tuvala mainly involve shots of lovely children leading a peaceful life in a lush tropical setting. There are many pretty shots of the islanders enjoying the Pacific Ocean, although it was a little disconcerting to see them slaughtering pigs and cleaning them in these waters. The island seems to be largely self sustaining. This may be the first independent country to slip into the sea. However, the island appears to be very narrow in many parts and is only on average 3 feet above sea level. You would not want to be around during a cyclone. These islanders have probably been living with the dangers of the sea for a very long time.