Climate change clock is ticking

Ulster Unionist South Antrim MLA, Danny Kinahan, a member of the Assembly environment committee, has said that the Minister of the Environment, in liaison with his Executive colleagues, must tackle Northern Ireland's response to the issue of climate change with the utmost urgency.

"As the Copenhagen climate change summit gets underway, it is increasingly apparent that we must take immediate, focused steps to mitigate global warming - doing nothing is not an option. It concerns me that, in this area, Northern Ireland is lagging somewhat behind," the UUP MLA said.

"We must take cognisance of scientific evidence and take appropriate action. Certainly Northern Ireland needs an implementation strategy to take into account our particular circumstances, and which garners the support of all Departments in the Executive. This must also extend into local government, and necessitates achievable short, medium and long term targets. Collective change is required if Northern Ireland is to step up to its climate change responsibilities.

"I certainly hope that all Departments and their Ministers, including our new Finance Minister, Sammy Wilson, will recognise that climate change is a serious problem that affects us all."

The Assembly environment committee member outlined how, during the course of a committee probe into the issue, MLAs were presented with very strong scientific evidence and also heard from a range of those who are concerned about the environment.

"Contributors stated unequivocally that climate change is happening and that man is contributing to it. If we are contributing to climate change, clearly we must take action to minimise its effect so that we mitigate it and protect future generations.

"The Economic and Social Research Council, in its document 'Britain in 2010', states that one more hot day on the planet increases the mortality rate by 0.8% and that a temperature rise of just 1% increases the world mortality rate by 10%. These are startling statistics, and demonstrate why 61% of the population is concerned about climate change.

"It is vital that we come up with detailed, achievable actions which allow growth, create employment and find that middle way that will allow us to carry on enjoying our lives, and our planet. There are clear targets for action, including better recycling, less use of cars and increased uptake of public transport, and the building of more energy efficient houses. Without a concerted effort to effect change, the end result will be devastating."