Cork oak woodlands are an important and unique ecosystem found in the Mediterranean region. These woodlands are home to a vast array of plant and animal species, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth. However, cork oak woodlands are now under threat, with habitat loss, climate change, and unsustainable land use practices putting these ecosystems on the edge.

Cork oak trees are a key feature of these woodlands, and they provide a range of benefits to both the environment and human communities. These trees are able to store large amounts of carbon, making them important in the fight against climate change. They also provide important habitats for a range of wildlife, including birds, mammals, and insects.

In addition to their environmental benefits, cork oak trees are also an important resource for human communities. The bark of the cork oak tree is harvested every 9-12 years, providing a sustainable source of cork for use in a range of products, including wine bottle stoppers, flooring, and insulation. Cork oak woodlands also support a range of traditional land uses, including grazing and agriculture, which provide important livelihoods for local communities.

Despite the many benefits provided by cork oak woodlands, these ecosystems are under threat. Habitat loss is a major issue, with increasing pressure from urbanization, infrastructure development, and the expansion of agriculture. Climate change is also having an impact, with changes in rainfall patterns and increasing temperatures affecting the growth and survival of cork oak trees.