Adapting to Climate Change

Our climate is changing, the ten warmest years on record have all occurred since 1997. Watch the climate change video and read on for interactive toolkit and top tips...

So what is in store for the next 20-50 years?

Rising temperature: hotter summers and milder winters
Heavy winter rainfall and intense downpours will become more common
Less rainfall in Summer - leading to increased risk of drought and water shortages
Rising sea levels

What might this mean for tourism in Somerset?

More tourism-related jobs as market expands
Increased demand will lead to greater pressures on services, utilities and congestion
Greater demand for open spaces in summer - but also need for shade
Flash floods causing damage
Some beaches become smaller due to sea level rises

How prepared are you for this changing climate?

A practical and interactive toolkit has been designed to help you at:- www.climateprepared.com

Here are a few 'top tips' to help you adapt successfully:-

- Check your flood risk (www.environment-agency.gov.uk)

- Plan (develop a business continuity plan - see www.oursouthwest.com/climate)

- Learn from others (see the Tourism Case Studies on www.oursouthwest.com/climate)

- Take action (collect rainwater; provide shade; plant trees; get a flood board)

- Check your insurance (are you insured against the effects of flood and storm damage?)

- Get help and advice - see www.oursouthwest.com/climate)

- For more information visit South West Tourism or the South West Climate Change Impacts Partnership websites.

- Download the Climate Change in South West England Leaflet