what is Climate Change?
Our earth retains its temperature thanks to a layer of
"greenhouse" gases in the atmosphere, which trap energy from the
sun. Without this layer of gases, the average global temperature
would be more than 30°C colder than it is now.
As human activities involving the burning of fossil fuels
increase, the concentrations of greenhouse gases, particularly
Carbon Dioxide (CO2), build up in the atmosphere. This
causes the world to heat up unnaturally, the weather to become more
unpredictable, and increases the likelihood of more extreme weather
events. This heating process is often referred to as global warming
and the overall effect is known as climate change.
We all contribute in some way towards increasing the layer of
gases. We do this by using energy. Energy used directly, such as
transport, heating or cooling our homes and workplaces, cooking
food or any other use, such as lighting. We also contribute
indirectly through the energy that goes into producing all the
things we purchase, from necessities like food, water, houses,
clothing or healthcare, through to non-essentials like DVD's,
cosmetics or holidays.
what are the effects?
In Herefordshire and the United Kingdom, climate change is
likely to mean, warmer, wetter winters, hotter, drier summers,
increased summer time thunder storms, less snow, and more severe
flooding of coastal and river areas. This may irrepareably damage
our wildlife and environment, and could have a devastating effect
on agriculture, business and our way of life.
what can you do?
The rural nature of Herefordshire presents some special
opportunities for you to help slow climate change as well as adapt
to it. We believe there are many sound economic, health, social and
environmental benefits from acting now rather than later. What's
more, it would be a splendid advert for Herefordshire if it could
become a leading county in tackling climate change in the UK.
This area of myherefordshire.com allows you to play your part
and find ways you and your local community can do your bit for the
local (and global) environment. In doing so you will benefit not
only yourself but also your family, future generations, this
wonderful County and quite possibly the planet!.
Why not start by calculating your
Carbon
Footprint ?