Climate Change in New Zealand
Human activity is increasing the natural level of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere causing Earth to warm up and the climate to change. The effects of a warming planet and disrupted climate pattern are already becoming evident.
Looking out over the next 30-40 years, the effects of climate change, and the response to it, presents a major national and global challenge. The cost of doing nothing about climate change could be high, impacting upon our environment, economy and society. Some climate change is already inevitable, but with significant greenhouse gas reductions now the catastrophic effects of climate change may be avoided.
Map of regional climate impact:
(http://www.mfe.govt.nz/issues/climate/resources/impactmap/index.html)
Summary of Climate Change impacts:
Higher temperatures
There is likely to be an increase in demand for air-conditioning systems and therefore for electricity in summer
Conversely, there will be a reduction in demand for winter heating meaning less costs for bill payers and reducing stress on those who cannot afford electricity
Flooding
More frequent intense winter rainfalls are expected to increase the likelihood of flooding by rivers, as well as flash flooding when urban drainage systems become overwhelmed
Water resources
Water demand will be heightened during hot, dry summers
Longer summers with higher temperatures and lower rainfall will reduce soil moisture and groundwater supplies
River flows are likely to be lower in summer and higher in winter
Lower river flows in summer will raise water temperatures and aggravate water quality problems
Health
Higher levels of mortality related to summer heat are expected
Higher winter temperatures would be likely to lead to a reduction in winter related mortality and illnesses such as colds and flu
Biodiversity
Warmer weather would favour conditions for increased competition from exotic species as well as the spread of disease and pests, affecting both fauna and flora
Warmer temperatures will reduce some critical habitats, increasing the risk of localised extinction
Increased summer drought will cause stress to dry lowland forests
Earlier springs and longer frost-free seasons could affect the timing of bird egg-laying, as well as the emergence, first flowering and health of leafing or flowering plants
Built environment
Increased temperatures may reduce comfort of occupants in domestic, commercial and public buildings, and could lead to business disruption
Transport
Hotter summers may damage elements of transport infrastructure, causing buckled railway lines and rutted roads, with associated disruption and repair costs
Business and Finance
Households may find it more difficult to access adequate insurance cover in the face of increased flood risk
Fruit and vegetable growers may find it more expensive to insure against weather related damage eg, hail
The risk management of potential climate change impacts may provide significant opportunities for business
Source:
Ministry for the Environment (2009): Climate change impacts in New Zealand. Retrieved 18th October 2011 from http://www.mfe.govt.nz/issues/climate/about/impacts.html.
