study background

There is mounting evidence that the UK is experiencing unusual and variable weather which may in part be attributable to the effects of global climate change.  Models of what the climate might be like in the future suggest that events we now consider to be ‘extreme’ will become more commonplace. 

Over recent years the UK has seen significant flood events, most notably in York in 2000, 2001 and 2004, in Boscastle in 2004, in Carlisle in 2005, and widespread across South Yorkshire, Humberside and Gloucestershire in the summer of 2007.  These events tragically resulted in some loss of life and caused extensive flood-related damages to homes, industry and infrastructure. 

Other notable events across the UK in recent years have included the record high temperatures during the 2003 heatwave and then again in 2006, and the tornadoes that affected Selsey Bill in 1998, Birmingham in 2005, and London in 2007, wreaking damage to infrastructure and buildings.

In recent years the UK Government has identified climate change as one of the greatest threats to society and has placed it high on the political agenda.  There has also been much media interest in the topic, both in the UK and worldwide, and a recognition that action needs to be taken now to respond to the challenge posed.  This includes both mitigation (reducing greenhouse gas emissions through energy reduction, efficient and innovative approaches) and adaptation (responding to the impacts caused by climate change).

In recognition of the threat posed by climate change, a number of organisations have formed a partnership across the Yorkshire and Humber region to take forward a study to better understand the climate changes, to assess the threats and impacts they pose, and to identify how we need to adapt now to best manage these projected changes and impacts. 

This study has:

• Projected climate changes across the region to the 2050s using state-of-the-art modelling techniques;

• Assessed the impacts of the projected climate changes on current services, assets, communities, business and infrastructure;

• Identified what needs to be done to adapt to the impacts; and

• Identified which organisations are best placed to take the lead in taking forward the identified adaptation actions.

It is intended that this study output provides a catalyst and focus for action across all sectors operating across the region. 

It is also intended that the practical advice, which is founded on sound scientific information, cutting-edge thinking and latest best-practice guidance, can be used by key organisations across the region in the development and delivery of their own climate change adaptation Action Plans.

 

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