Climate change cuts are a false economy
ADEPT calls for more action on adaptation in light of new report
ADEPT, the Association of Directors of Environment, Economy, Planning and Transport, has called for more action on climate change adaptation following publication of the UK Climate Change Risk Assessment 2017 Evidence Report.
Rupert Clubb, ADEPT President, said: “We are concerned that government has cut back on adaptation support to both Defra and the Environment Agency. In light of the report findings, we believe this is a false economy.
“ADEPT members are ready to meet the challenges this new evidence presents, but Local Authorities cannot do this alone. Government must ensure adaptation is a priority across departments and is resourced appropriately. This is a long term issue but we need to act now.”
The report has been published by the Government’s Adaptation Sub-Committee, which is charged with providing independent advice to Government. It will inform the Government’s second Climate Change Risk Assessment due in January 2017.
The report, which has been in development over the past three years, outlines a series of threats and opportunities brought about through changes to the UK climate.
The most urgent risks identified by the report include impacts of flooding and coastal change; risks to health from high temperatures; water shortages; ecosystems and biodiversity; food production and new pests and diseases.
The report also cautions on the potential impacts of Brexit on adaptation policies and legislation, stating that should these be withdrawn, they would need to be replaced with measures that are ‘equivalent or better.’
Rupert continued: “While we understand the budget deficit needs to be plugged, we believe it has been wrong to reduce funding and resource in climate adaptation, including that for the climate ready support service.
“Today’s report highlights that urgent action is needed to make sure the country is able to face the challenges a changing climate brings.
“The investment and commitment to improving flood defences is welcome but more needs to be done to help communities develop resilience.
“ADEPT calls upon the new Prime Minister to ensure this evidence report is given due regard and the right level of resource is provided to Defra and the Environment Agency to support local authorities in reducing the risk to our infrastructure.”
ENDS
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The ADEPT Prospectus Real Change In The Places We Live And Work can be downloaded at: http://www.adeptnet.org.uk/cms/files/prospectus/Policy Prospectus 2015.pdf
About ADEPT
The Association of Directors of Environment, Economy, Planning & Transport (ADEPT) represents local authority county, unitary and metropolitan Directors. Operating at the strategic tier of local government, members are responsible for delivering public services that primarily relate to the physical environment and the economy, but which have a significant impact on all aspects of the nation’s well-being. ADEPT represents members' interests by proactively engaging central Government on emerging policy & issues, promoting initiatives aimed at influencing Government policy and through the development of best practices and responding to European and UK Government initiatives and consultations.
For more information on ADEPT please visit the website: www.adeptnet.org.uk
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