Substantial uncertainties exist when trying to predict how large areas will react to the changing climate, and when it comes to global climate the UK is an anomaly. This is because it is warmer than other countries located at the same latitude e.g. Newfoundland.
The reason for this warmth is the Gulf Stream, which draws heat from the topics and releases the warmth in the north-east Atlantic. If global warming causes the acceleration of the hydrological cycle and melting of ice, surface water will be diluted and water currents will slow. Climate change models show a net effect of slowed down warming in the north Atlantic because of this effect (Grub, 2004).
However, work by Seager et al (2002) disputes that climate change will have a cooling effect on the UK climate. Using weather data from the past 50 years their research shows that as little as 10% of the UK’s warming comes from the Gulf Stream. Instead the paper claims the majority of the UK’s climate comes in the form of warm wind from North America, and that this combined with the ocean being capable of holding heat for longer than the land, is the key to the mild climate. Therefore, dilution of the Gulf Stream by ice melt water, could have a less disastrous effect on the UK’s climate than was first thought, and climate change may cause the UK to warm instead of cool.
While there is uncertainty regarding how climate change will effect areas locally, changes already experienced in the global climate outlined by UKCIP (2002) include; increased night-time temperatures, occurring at twice the rate of day time temperatures, and higher rainfall over many Northern Hemisphere mid-to-high latitude areas of land. Along with a practically global reduction in ice mass, accompanied by substantial Arctic sea ice thinning occurring in late summer. The Northern Hemisphere is also experiencing an extension in the length of the freeze-free season.
From Humble Beginnings to Industry Leaders: The Story of Landia UK's Growth with Liz Robinson
Discover the remarkable 30-year journey of Landia UK, a leader in pump manufacturing. Join Liz Robinson as she reflects on her pivotal role from the company's humble beginnings to its status as an industry innovator in the UK and Ireland. Learn how Landia UK's commitment to quality and customer service has driven its growth and […]
15 Ways to Prevent Climate Change
Here we describe 15 great Ways to Prevent Climate Change. There are a huge number of ways you can help prevent climate change, from making small changes to your daily routine to voting in elections that promote environmental change. Are you in a rush? Then just read this! Below are ten quick suggested actions that […]
Overfishing – Causes of Overfishing and Overfishing Solutions
The term overfishing is often assumed to refer to the overfishing of fish but in fact, it refers to all aquatic species including shellfish, crabs, lobsters and many others. In a recent study, the University of British Columbia found that China provides the most harmful subsidies to the industry. In fact, in 2011, they provided […]
Benefits of Depackaging Equipment: Sustainable Organic Waste Processing to Reduce Waste & Raise Profitability
We discuss the benefits of depackaging equipment. The news is that the latest “low destruction” energy-efficient and microplastics avoiding depackaging equipment has now improved to provide reliable “bankable” sustainable Organic Waste Processing which really can reduce waste for all operators of organic waste (especially food waste) reprocessing facilities while simultaneous raising the profitability of organic […]
