Perception-Based Analysis (PBA) of Climate Change Impacts on the Forest and Agricultural Ecosystem of Shropshire, United Kingdom

Abstract

Agriculture and forestry are vital sectors providing services, food and other environmental benefits that could be most affected by the impact of climate change (CC). This study analysed the impact of CC on forestry and agriculture in a typical UK rural environment. The study interrogates this complex question using the Perception Based Analysis (PBA) methodological approach. Data analysis utilized chi square test and one-way analysis of variance (Anova) in comparing the impact of climate change and human factors on forest and agricultural ecosystems, (significance level α = 5%), calculated ρ = 0.36 > 0.05. This non-significant ρ value suggests that the null hypothesis Ho "climate change is responsible for the changes in forest and agricultural ecosystem in the case study area" could be true.