Climate change
UK effects
Globally, over the past century, the average temperature of the atmosphere near the earth’s surface has risen by 0.74 degrees Celsius. Eleven of the twelve hottest years on record were between 1995 and 2006.
The scientific consensus is that global temperatures could rise between 1.1 and 6.4 degrees Celsius above 1980 -1999 levels by the end of the 21st century. The exact amount depends on the levels of future greenhouse gas emissions.
Extreme weather
Since rain records began in 1766, the amount of winter rainfall in England and Wales has risen. Over the last 45 years it has also become heavier; in 2000, UK flooding was the worst for 270 years in some areas. Flood damage now costs Britain about £1 billion a year.