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ARCHIVE: What can you do?

The impacts of climate change will affect everyone - and there are things that you can do both in the short and longer term. Some examples of the possible impacts of climate change and actions that can be taken are provided below.

The frequency of extreme weather events are likely to increase, such as heavy rainfall periods leading to flooding. To ensure you are prepared for the increased risk of future flooding, consider:

  • planning how you can avoid travelling when the weather is bad – for example using technology to work from home
  • visit the Environment Agency’s website to check if your house is at risk of flooding and for tips on changes you can make to reduce your vulnerability.

Summer rainfall will decrease which is likely to increase the frequency of droughts:

  • consider ways you can save water - try to use appliances only when they’re full - half-load cycles use much more than half the energy and water of a full load

Summer temperatures will be hotter, with a corresponding likely increase in the frequency of heatwaves. There are a number of actions that can help keep your environment cooler in summer such as:

    • keeping windows that are exposed to the sun closed during the day, and open windows at night when the temperature has dropped.
    • consider putting up external shading outside windows, using pale reflective external paints and having your loft and cavity walls insulated – to keep the heat in when it is cold and out when it is hot.

    The Environment Agency recently used World Environment Day to focus on what individuals can do to adapt to a changing climate, highlighting five main areas for action.

    Further information

    The Environment Agency used World Environment Day to focus on what individuals can do to adapt to a changing climate, highlighting five main areas for action.For more information visit the Stand Up to Climate Change website: www.standuptoclimatechange.org/ask.aspx

    The UK Climate Impacts Programme also provide advice on their website about how individuals can adapt to the impacts of climate change. See the 'What can I do section' on their website. How individuals can adapt to climate change

    Page last modified: 15 June 2008
    Page published: 24 July 2008

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