Climate Change
1. First step - recognising the problem
Climate change is a reality and this can no longer be denied. The science
is complicated and needs to be continually assessed and updated but the
overall picture is one of global temperature increase due to changes in
the atmosphere's composition. Click here to view Professor Sugden's report "Melting Ice - a Hot Topic?"
2. The Response
The past decade has seen world leaders, scientists and politicians locked
in debate over the merits of various courses of action. The resulting strategic
response focuses on stabilizing the level of atmospheric greenhouse gases
and of equal importance, measures to counteract the predicted effects of
global warming. The challenge is being taken up in all walks of life, from
personal choices to those of powerful corporations. The UK is in a strong
position to set an example.
3. Our Response
Our response concentrates on reducing deforestation - which is thought
to currently contribute 18% of human induced global warming - and supporting
reforestation. Preserving and restoring ecosystems provides habitats with
a greater chance of buffering the effects of climate change, whilst also
helping to stabilize atmospheric green house gas content.
Forest cover is also crucial in providing permanent water courses and many mountain forests act as water towers in otherwise arid areas. Trees will play an increasingly important role in the UK, as we are predicted to experience greater drought and higher temperatures.
The issue is complex. But with responses driven by strong environmental, ethical and economic evidence, the positive effects of tackling climate change on the world we live in will become increasingly apparent. The UK accounts for approximately 2% of global emissions. But this is not a reason to do nothing, as some high profile figures sometimes say. Living by example can be very powerful.
Each person can make a difference and the things you can do in your own life are quite simple. See our page - five things