Frequently asked questions
What does adaptation mean?The carbon we've already emitted into the atmosphere will continue to affect it, changing the climate, for decades. We need to adapt our homes to the new situation. What does mitigation mean?Mitigation means reducing carbon emissions, to slow down climate change. How will climate change affect my area?See the UK Climate Impacts Programme (UKCIP) website for support and guidance on climate change impact across the UK. Their detailed maps give an area-by-area breakdown. We're being told to reduce our carbon emissions. Won't this stop climate change?We've been polluting the atmosphere with carbon emissions for about 250 years - since the beginning of the industrial revolution. Carbon stays in the atmosphere for many years; even if we stopped emissions now, the damage that has already been done would still affect the atmosphere for decades. How long will it take for the climate to start changing?Scientists agree that the climate has already started to change. Any adaptations you make aren't just investments for the future - they will make your home more comfortable in the current climate as well. How sure are we that humans are causing climate change?The most respected authority on climate change is the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. In their most recent report (the Forth Assessment Report) they say 'Most of the observed increase in global average temperatures since the mid-20th century is very likely due to the observed increase in anthropogenic [caused by humans] greenhouse gas concentrations'. How much will it cost to adapt my home?Because buildings vary so much in terms of construction, age and vulnerability to risk, each house or flat may need different improvements with differing costs. The case studies show examples of adaptations to typical buildings. Can I get a grant to pay for adapting my home?See the resources page for suggestions. How can I tell whether my home will flood?The Environment Agency produces up-to-date maps of the areas that are at risk from river and coastal flooding. These don't show flood risks from other sources, such as surface water and sewer flooding. Local Environment Agency offices, or specialist flood advisers, will be able to find more detail about these for an individual property. For more specialist advisers, see the National Flood Forum's Blue Pages (PDF). Will saving water save me money?It will directly save you money if you already pay for your water on a meter. For more information about getting a water meter installed, contact your water supplier. Everybody can benefit from being more efficient with hot water - using less will save on your household fuel bill. Why should I make all these changes to keep my home cool when I could just buy an air conditioner?Air conditioners run off electricity - so if you're using one to keep cool, you're contributing to climate change by adding to the volume of greenhouse gases we emit. |
Related websites UK Climate Impacts Programme |