We are all aware that climate change is an undeniable global problem. However, many fail to realise how serious of a problem this is and how much it can affect us in the UK. This worldwide disaster might affect us more than we think.
One of the most noticeable concerns for the UK is the rise in sea levels. A rise in sea levels in the UK may not seem like much of an issue, but there has been a visible increase in coastal erosion. As a result of this, homes, infrastructure, and vital ecosystems are put at a higher risk of flooding and damage. This is a serious threat to the UK, being an island, especially to low-lying areas along the coast. Projections by Climate Central even suggest that areas in Kent and Devon could soon enough fall underwater. Not only does this pose a threat to public safety, but this could also head to economic problems too. The UK government estimates that the annual flood damage cost could increase to £1 billion by 2035.
Another significant consequence of climate change is the rise in global temperatures. Average global temperatures have increased by about 1 °C since 1900, with over half of the increase occurring since the mid-1970s. While 1 °C may not seem like much, this small increase can affect us significantly. As global temperatures increase, we can only expect a rise in food prices (due to crops drying out), wildfires and heat-related deaths. These consequences will affect us all one way or another.
Climate change can also affect ecosystems and biodiversity in the UK. Changes in temperatures and precipitation patterns can disrupt ecosystems and even affect distribution of plant and animal species. Some species might migrate to environments more suitable, while others may struggle to adapt or migrate to suitable habitats, leading to a loss of biodiversity. This can disrupt food chains and negatively impact ecosystems.
Climate change is not just a trivial matter we can ‘deal with later.’ It affects us all in one way or another, and we cannot simply ignore it until it gets too late.
