Record-breaking weather due to climate change

Bournemouth residents made their way to the beach this weekend to enjoy the sunny weather, after the Met Office released that the UK had their warmest winter day on record.

Wales had the highest temperature in the country, hitting over 20°C.

This time last year, the ‘Beast from the East’ was bombarding the UK with a thick blanket of snow and arctic temperatures. A stark contrast to the summer-like climate we experienced over the past week.

In light of this, the latest report from the inter-governmental panel on climate change states that we have only twelve years to make drastic changes to the way energy is produced and consumed if we are to keep global warming to less than 1.5°C.

Responding to these weather changes, Angela Pooley, co-ordinator of East Dorset friends of the earth, said: “The temperatures over the last few days, whilst enjoyable, are definitely worrying.

“We have experienced the warmest February on record and this is a prime example of the effects of climate change.  

“Governments and decision makers need to take serious action, but everyone of us can take simple actions to help make a difference.”

When asked what members of the public can do to prevent their own carbon footprint, she said: “Obvious things, like using cars less by moving to public transport or cycling – supporting renewable energy.

“We should think about where the food we eat comes from, support local sustainable farming.

“Where possible, grow your own food or support community gardening.  

“Think about packaging and don’t buy fruit & veg that’s packed in plastic – plastic waste is a major source of pollution in our seas.”

Bournemouth Borough Council also released a ‘Go Green Bournemouth Climate Change and Sustainable Community Strategy’.

This initiative will see the Council promoting the use of renewable energy and more energy efficient products in new buildings. It also encourages the community to seek greener travel choices; these include cycling, taking the bus and walking.

The council say: “Bournemouth is focused on installing solar PV installations on a massive scale, more investment in biomass boiler installations (and) a green heat and power plant to run the town hall complex.”