There is very strong evidence to suggest that our climate is changing. Over the past 100 years the earth has warmed by 0.74°C and global greenhouse gas emissions have increased by 70% since pre-industrial times (Source: Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) 4th assessment report
2007).
The most significant greenhouse gas is Carbon Dioxide (CO
2), but other gases also contribute. They are released by burning fossil fuels and deforestation. These gases trap heat and artificially warm
the earth’s surface.
About 40% of
carbon emissions in the UK
are as a result of human activity. The
biggest sources of emissions for most people are energy use in the
home, driving and air travel.
Climate change effects everybody and it is imperative we all take action to reduce our carbon footprint.
How will it affect
us?
Average temperatures and sea levels have already increased
in the South East region. The
region is likely to be effected by…
- Hotter drier
summers, warmer wetter winters, higher sea levels and an increase in
extreme weather events such as heat-waves, droughts and flooding.
- By 2080 it is
predicted the English Channel will rise
by 54 cm's.
Globally it is predicted temperatures may rise between
1.8°C – 4°C by the end
of the century. It is predicted this will speed up the melting of glaciers, cause sea levels to rise and increase the frequency of extreme weather events like storms and flooding.
What is Gosport Borough Council doing?
Gosport Borough Council has an important leadership role to play in addressing the causes of climate change. The Council has
developed a Climate Change Strategy (PDF) which demonstrates its commitment to carbon reduction. In July 2008 the Council
signed the Nottingham Declaration (PDF), a voluntary pledge indicating its commitment to address the causes of climate change and prepare for its impacts. For more information on the Nottingham Declaration click here.
The Council has joined
forces with the Carbon Trust to reduce its carbon footprint from Council buildings and activities. We are aspiring to achieve a 30% reduction in carbon emissions over a five year period. To help achieve this the Council has a Climate
Change Action Plan, with numerous energy and resource saving ideas. It is improving energy efficiency in council buildings and promoting energy saving through the appointment of Energy Champions. All staff have been issued with a Climate Change Induction to encourage them to minimise their impact on the environment.
In the Borough coastal defences are being designed to accommodate
future predicted sea level rise. Energy Efficiency
Officers can provide advice to home owners to help improve energy efficiency in the home, saving both money and the environment.
For more information please contact Nuisha Abab, Policy Officer on: 02392 545280 or send an email to nuisha.abab@gosport.gov.uk
Doing your bit
You may find it hard to believe your actions will make a difference,
because climate change is such a global issue. But there are plenty of ways you can help the environment and save money at the same time. Click on the links below to discover what you can do...
Energy Efficiency
Waste minimisation and Recycling
Green Travel
Use Water Wisely
Green Shopping
Fairtrade
Useful Links:
Carbon Trust
Energy Saving Trust
Calculate your Carbon Footprint
Groundwork Solent
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