12/12/08
Water UK has today published a new briefing paper on adaptation to climate change, outlining the impacts upon water and how the water industry is addressing them.
In addition to its extensive work in climate change mitigation, the water industry is taking a lead in adaptation because the many impacts are felt first and most significantly by the water environment.
The new briefing covers: impacts on water sources, infrastructure and water treatment; Water UK work; research projects; action by water companies and case studies; and next steps.
Climate change impacts
• Water availability is affected by changing weather patterns and there may be a need for additional infrastructure, for example winter storage capacity
• Many existing sewerage systems were not designed to take climate change into account, and more intense rainfall could exceed the network capacity, causing localised flooding
• There may be a need for additional treatment to meet higher standards
The industry has made good progress in preparing for these impacts, but climate adaptation is set to be a priority in company business plans for the foreseeable future.
Water UK Briefing - Adaptation to Climate Change
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