1st May 2009

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Climate change is dramatically damaging our oceans and sea life but is also creating new opportunities for the tourist industry here – these are the findings of new University of Ulster research published this week.

Andrew Cooper, Professor of Coastal Studies at Ulster, examined the impact of climate change on coastal economies in a report commissioned by the Marine Climate Change Impacts Partnership that aims to condense the latest scientific information into a form accessible to policy makers.   

Professor Cooper highlights the threat from more frequent flooding and coastal erosion to coastal dwellers as sea levels rise, but also points to possible benefits arising from a warmer climate.

“In the last 200 years, ocean acidity has increased by 30% and at a rate much faster than any time in the last 65 million years due to the rise in carbon dioxide emissions – this has serious implications for marine ecosystems and climate regulation,” he explains. 

“There has been a 35% decrease in summer sea ice and a 15% reduction in winter sea ice in the last decade alone, leading to changes in habitats and ecosystems. These changes in climate affect people both directly and indirectly and so are difficult to quantify, but if we understand what is happening, we will be in a better position to adapt to future changes.

“There is no doubt that many of our coastal communities will face challenges such as increased flood and coastal erosion risks as well as a decline in traditional fisheries as direct result of climate change, however, there are likely to be new opportunities in tourism patterns brought about by higher temperatures and possible new fisheries as the marine ecosystem adjusts.”

Professor Cooper’s research was launched by the Minister for the Natural and Marine Environment, Huw Irranca-Davies, at a special event in London this week. 

Speaking at the launch Minister Irranca-Davies said: “Climate change is happening now, and its impact on the marine environment affects all of us. The fight against climate change and protection of the natural environment are inextricably linked, and we are witnessing unprecedented effects on our seas. 

He also praised the work of the MCCIP which he said had ‘done an excellent job translating the complex science of marine climate change into everyday language’. 

The MCCIP report card and  Professor Cooper’s research report is available at: 

http://www.mccip.org.uk/elr/coasts/default.htm

For further information, please contact:

Trina Porter
Telephone: 028 71675511
Email: Trina Porter