Why do we need offshore windfarms?

Mitigate the effects of climate change in Norfolk/Suffolk

Norfolk/Suffolk, like the rest of the UK, will experience hotter drier summers, wetter winters and more extreme precipitation events.

Norfolk is particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels, as it is low-lying and sinking. Sea level could rise in Norfolk/Suffolk between 22-80 centimetres in the next 50 years causing loss of coastal habitats and encroachment of salty ground waters.

The wetter winters will contribute to flooding, especially of the Broads, which threatens properties, livelihoods and ecology of the area. In the hot summers there may be water shortages and underground soil deposits may shrink leading to road and building damage.

One of the region’s most important economic activities – agriculture- will need to respond to the increased temperatures and growing season, reduced summer rain and loss of land. Different varieties of crop may need to be grown.Changing climate and habitat is already resulting in changed wildlife as, for example, the Queen of Spain butterfly, originally from North Africa is now seen in East Anglia.

Climate change also brings benefits, as hotter summers are likely to bring additional tourism to the region. The effects of climate change need to be carefully managed and mitigated. Mitigation of climate change will occur through reducing greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere.

One important step towards this is using renewable energy, from sources such as offshore wind, instead of burning fossil fuels to generate power.

External links
Living with Climate Change in the East of England

Climate Change in Norfolk - EDP24 report

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