What are the effects of climate change on Ireland?
The effects of climate change can be clearly seen, the most evident effect can be seen in the increased temperature. Temperatures have risen by 0.7oC between 1890-2008 and most significantly by 0.4oC between 1980-2008.
These increased temperatures have had knock on effects on Ireland's natural environment, it has changed the growing season affecting farming and has increased the number of animals suited to warmer temperatures. An increase in the frequency and impact of storms has also been recorded in the last few decades.
If the rate of global warming continues to increases and the climate continues to change there could be severe adverse effects on Ireland. As an island nation we are particularly vulnerable to increasing sea levels with coastal regions facing issues of flooding.
More erratic weather conditions could lead to both increased rainfall and storms as well as water shortages in summer. Icreased rainfall could lead to flooding and in turn this would have adverse effects on water quality.
Changing weather could also have devastating effects on the plants and wildlife of the country.
To learn more about climate change visit
NASA's Global Climate Change website
Environmental Protection Agency website