London's Warming: The Impacts of Climate Change on London

Abstract

This stage one study has also provided a platform for addressing the principal aims of the London Climate Change Partnership, which are: 1.To provide an overview of the best current information on the likely climate change scenarios for London.2. To provide an overview of the existing information on the impacts of climate change on the environment and the economy and, to elucidate the social impacts of climate change largely based on existing reviews, research and monitoring studies within and outside the region.3. To build a consensus view among key stakeholders about the likely direction and level of climate change in London and to assess the impacts of such change on London, its population and businesses.4. To provide relevant input to ensure that policy responses are appropriate to the needs of London's population and economy.5. To raise awareness amongst London institutions, businesses and communities that might otherwise not be aware of the implications of climate change and, in this way, ensure an increased understanding of the common issues faced by all of London in the event of various climate change outcomes.6. To make proposals for further research and information collection to develop a better understanding of the type and extent of potential impacts.7. To disseminate the results of the study effectively to those who need to take action.The following sections address these aims. Climate indicators Recent trendTidal levels High tide levels rising by 6 mm/yr (includes subsidence) Frequency of Thames Barrier closure increased during the 1990's River water quality Water quality trends reflect fluctuations in rainfall intensity and river flow volume Droughts of 1989-91/1995-97 led to deterioration of river quality River water temperatures have risen in the Thames Combined sewer outflows severely deplete oxygen levels following severe summer storms Air quality Air quality is failing standards in many parts of London principally due to traffic emissions Key pollutants are nitrogen dioxide, particulates, ozone, and sulphur dioxide Weather patterns strongly affect ambient pollution levels Biodiversity Decline in some species due to predation, e.g.Water Vole Decline in some species due to agricultural intensificaton, e.g.House Sparrow Decline in some species due to loss of habitat, e.g.Bumblebee Loss of habitats due to redevelopment e.g.marshland and urban wasteland Spread of problem species, e.g.Floating Pennywort, Chinese Mitten Crab Increasing pressures from recreation and amenity, e.g.woodland, waterways Fragile, but generally recovering Salmon population 3.