More action required to protect against climate change dangers - report

More action is needed to protect people from the fast-rising risks of climate change, according to a new report.

An independent assessment led by the Climate Change Committee (CCC) - the government 's official climate advisers - said action to improve the nation 's resilience is not keeping pace with the impacts of global heating.

The average temperature has risen by around 1.2�C from pre-industrial levels, while episodes of extreme heat are becoming more frequent and UK sea levels have risen by 16cm since 1900.

The report warns of more severe heatwaves, especially in big cities, and more intense rainfall, with an increased flood risk across most of the UK.

It says business, homes, infrastructure and services must be made resilient to floods, heat and humid nights.

The report notes that businesses adapting to climate change require better access to quality information, diversification of supply chain risks and building better capacity to manage, share and transfer risk.

It says that, in the future, organisations may face more comprehensive and detailed climate-risk-related reporting to improve management.

New technology and infrastructure through increase R&D will also be crucial to cope with these changes.

The report also outlines the highest priorities for the UK over the next two years, the most relevant risks to businesses being:

• Supply of food, goods and vital services due to climate-related collapse of supply chains and distribution networks
• People and the economy from climate-related failure of the power system
• Crops, livestock and commercial trees from multiple hazards
• Human health, wellbeing and productivity from increased exposure to heat in homes and other buildings
• Multiple risks to the UK from climate change impacts overseas

William Hargreaves (pictured), environmental policy lead at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “The impacts from climate change are happening now and will only increase in the coming years with a presence locally as well as globally. As the UK progresses towards its net zero target, climate risks must be considered and alleviated to ensure a prosperous economic and environmental future for business “

“The good thing is businesses have the opportunity to use their experiences from adapting to the Covid-19 pandemic, to improve resilience to climate-related supply chain and operational risks. Improving these elements can unlock opportunities for businesses and enhance their competitive advantage ”

“October 's campaign, 'The Sustainable Business Series: Net Zero ', aims to provide a good starting point for businesses wanting to improve climate-related action.

“The campaign will be delivered with business environmental experts across the region, sharing best practice, guidance and knowledge. ”

Read the full report here

To get involved in the campaign, click here.