What is Climate Change?
United Nations Definition of Climate Change.
“Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. These shifts may be natural, but since the 1800s, human activities have been the main driver of climate change, primarily due to the burning of fossil fuels (like coal, oil and gas), which produces heat-trapping gases.”
Dartford Borough Council recognised that we are facing a Climate Emergency in October 2019:
'This Council recognises the serious impact of climate change and accepts that rising global temperatures presents a clear and present threat to our world. We are facing a climate emergency.'
Read the full minutes of the motion that was put to the vote and carried unanimously at the General Assembly of the Council.
How does it affect Dartford?
Climate change will cause summers to be hotter and drier, while winters become warmer and wetter. This means a greater risk of droughts and fires in the summer and a greater risk of flooding in the winter.
Impacts of climate change include an increase in:
- The loss or reduction of agricultural land
- Overheating in homes and public buildings
- Flooding of homes and businesses
- Disruption on the travel and transportation networks
- Plants and animal diseases.
Why is action so important?
Action to tackle climate change will help to reduce the above-mentioned effects on Dartford while also preparing the borough to adapt and minimise the impact of our changing climate. For example; installing insulation in homes will mean burning less fossil fuels for heating in the winter and will also help keep homes cooler in the summer.
How you can help
Click the link above to find out how you can help.