How will climate change affect Wales?

Climate change is expected to have a significant impact on Wales, with consequences for the country’s environment, economy, and society. Some of the ways that climate change is likely to affect Wales include:

1. Rising sea levels: Wales has a long coastline, and sea levels are expected to rise as a result of climate change. This will increase the risk of coastal flooding and erosion, putting coastal communities, infrastructure, and wildlife habitats at risk.
2. Changes in precipitation patterns: Wales is expected to see changes in precipitation patterns, with increased rainfall in some areas and decreased rainfall in others. This will affect water availability, and could lead to water scarcity in some areas and increased risk of flooding in others.
3. Impacts on wildlife: Climate change is expected to have significant impacts on Wales’ wildlife and ecosystems. Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns could lead to the loss of habitats, changes in migration patterns, and declines in biodiversity.
4. Agriculture: Wales’ agriculture sector is expected to be affected by climate change, with changes in temperature and precipitation patterns affecting crop yields, the quality of crops, and the availability of water for irrigation.
5. Energy production: Wales is home to significant energy production facilities, including wind farms and hydroelectric power plants. Climate change is expected to affect the availability of energy resources and the cost of energy production.
6. Tourism: Wales’ tourism industry is also expected to be affected by climate change. Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns could lead to changes in the availability of outdoor recreation opportunities, such as hiking and fishing, and could also affect the quality of beach and coastal experiences.
7. Health: Climate change is expected to have significant impacts on health in Wales, with increased risk of heatwaves, air pollution, and waterborne illnesses.

In conclusion, climate change is expected to have a wide range of impacts on Wales, affecting the country’s environment, economy, and society. It is important that the Welsh government and other stakeholders take action to mitigate the impacts of climate change and adapt to the changes that are already underway.

References:

• Climate Change Committee for Wales. (2017). The Fifth Report on Policies and Proposals. Cardiff: Welsh Government.
• Welsh Government. (2019). Welsh Adaptation Programme 2019-2029. Cardiff: Welsh Government.
• DEFRA. (2018). The UK Climate Projections 2018. London: DEFRA.