Ireland must adapt to the unavoidable impacts of climate change as well as engaging in international efforts to curb global emissions, according to a major report by Environmental Protection Agency.
The EPA's Summary of the State of Knowledge on Climate Change Impacts for Irelandreport, published today, sets out the likely impacts of temperature rises, wetter winters and warmer seas in areas as diverse as agriculture, fishing, disease control and infrastructural networks.
It said uncertainties in the scientific knowledge and surrounding “the ambition and effectiveness” of future international actions meant the impacts for these sectors are likely to vary in both their nature and extent.
But a greater understanding of the science of climate change is needed in many areas so that appropriate adaptation options can be identified.
The report said changes in the Irish climate over recent decades were in line with global and regional trends associated with “human-induced” climate change.
While uncertainties remained in relation to the rate and extent of climate change impacts that Ireland will experience, deferring action now could be more costly in the longer terms.
The report said average air temperature in Ireland had experienced a 0.7 degree Celsius rise since 1890, with 0.4 of this increase occurring since 1980.
Air temperatures are predicted to increase by between 1 to 3 degrees over the next century. The report predicted significantly wetter winters especially in the west, and drier summers in the southeast.
While there has been a decrease in the frequency of storms, their intensity has increased and this is likely to continue, it said.
The report concluded that actions will be required to avoid the adverse impacts of climate change and to take advantage of any opportunities that may arise.
The EPA’s director of the office of climate, licensing and resource use, Laura Burke, said: “Climate change is happening in Ireland.”
“We need to adapt to climate change and to ensure that adaptation actions are environmentally and economically sustainable.”
Frank McGovern, senior manager with the EPA, said: “Continued funding for climate change research is required to advance our understanding of the issues, challenges and solutions.”
“Strategic investment in such research can provide the necessary scientific understanding which is required to inform efficient and cost effective actions on climate change across Government and for wider decision-making and planning,” he added.
