Speakers

Kevin Marti is Head of Tree Collections at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, and an Environmental Scientist with a strong focus on climate modelling, species distribution models (SDMs), and the resilience of urban and natural tree populations under changing environmental conditions. My work bridges climate data analysis, conservation planning, and applied urban ecology translating complex research into actionable strategies for sustainable urban forestry and biodiversity management.

At Kew, he leads the strategic direction and curation of one of the world’s most significant living tree collections. his role integrates applied science with long-term planning to ensure the collection’s resilience to climate change, supporting conservation, research, and public engagement. I also oversee projects that apply climate and species distribution models to evaluate the future suitability of tree species informing planting, conservation prioritisation, and adaptation strategies across the UK and globally.

With an MSc by Research in Environmental Science from Lancaster University, my research explored the use of advanced climate models and SDM frameworks to assess the future viability of tree species under multiple climate scenarios. I combine quantitative environmental modelling with a practical understanding of conservation priorities, urban tree selection, and ecosystem services.

he is particularly interested in how science-based modelling and living collections can inform urban planning, restoration, and climate adaptation ensuring the right tree is planted in the right place, for the right future.