Selwyn Times: December 01, 2021

Wednesday December 1 2021 Selwyn Times 9
Canterbury, we need
to talk about our
changing climate.
Climate change is already affecting our
local communities and ecosystems. It is
not an easy or small topic. That’s why our
local and regional councils have pooled
resources, knowledge and expertise to
help people understand, prepare for and
adapt to changes that Canterbury is likely
to experience.
The It’s time, Canterbury website is home
to reputable information and resources.
Explore these pages to learn about what
changes are expected here in Canterbury,
and pick up some ideas about how you
can help minimise, and adapt to, the
impacts of climate change.
What is climate change?
Over many years, scientists and tohunga
have learnt a lot about Earth’s climate
system. We know that recent changes
in the climate are widespread, rapid,
and intensifying, and unprecedented
in thousands of years.
As Earth’s temperature
continues to rise, it causes
changes in rainfall, weather
patterns, and the frequency
of extreme events, as well
as ice melt and sea level
rise. This results in a range
of effects we experience in
our natural environment
and the areas we live in.
Climate change in Canterbury
If we carry on as usual, and greenhouse
gas emissions continue to increase,
average temperatures in Canterbury are
projected to increase by up to 3.5°C by
the end of the century. The likelihood
of drought conditions is also projected
to increase, and fire risk will increase as
soils and plants become drier.
Alongside drought, we can expect
wetter winters in many eastern, western
and southern parts of Canterbury,
with up to 40% more rain.
What’s being done?
The more we learn about the challenges
associated with climate change in
Canterbury, the more we can use our
knowledge to make wise decisions.
Councils are thinking differently about
biodiversity, water availability, flood
protection, coastal erosion, energy,
land, urban design, infrastructure
and industry so you, your whānau, your
community or your business can be
supported to better understand and
proactively respond. Mō tātou, ā, mō
kā uri, ā muri ake nei – for us, and our
children after us.
If we work together to reduce emissions,
we can collectively limit the amount of
warming in Canterbury/Waitaha.
Can I really make a difference?
Absolutely! The easiest thing you can
do is be informed and become part of
the conversation. Make sure you have
verifiable facts to base your discussions
and actions on and talk with others
about what you know.
On the It’s time, Canterbury website,
you can show and share your support
simply by putting your name to the
cause, as well as learn about projected
changes in your district.
For those who want to act, there are
ideas showing how simple changes can
support New Zealand’s commitment
to reducing greenhouse gas emissions,
because everyone has a role to play,
and it starts at itstimecanterbury.co.nz.
We’re here to help you understand, manage and prepare for more changes Canterbury is likely to face in the future.
Because as well as taking action to reduce the impacts of climate change, we need to ready ourselves to adapt to them.
itstimecanterbury.co.nz
It’s time to talk
about climate change,
Canterbury.
It’s time, Canterbury is climate friendly - learn more on our website.
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