13 July 2005

Climate change impacts facing New Zealand

Observations show that global warming is already producing significant climate change because of human activity, says Dr Jim Salinger, a senior climate scientist with the National Institute for Water and Atmospheric Research in NZ.

Dr Salinger will describe such observations at his latest Christchurch seminar to be held on Tuesday, 2 August, from 3.30pm to 5pm, at Our City O-Tautahi, corner Oxford Terrace and Worcester Street. The Christchurch City Council is hosting the event.

Some climate changes already being observed include: melting permafrost in the Arctic severely disrupting traditional Eskimo lifestyles, migrating birds arriving earlier and departing later in North America, and a third less snow and ice on our Southern Alps, Dr Salinger says.

He will present the latest climate projections showing that other impacts, resulting from increasing climate variability and change, are likely to occur more frequently in the medium-term - affecting New Zealand agriculture, natural environment, coasts, cities, and communities.

Such information is of great interest to local government, energy, transport and tourism sectors, as well as those engaged in agriculture, cropping and horticulture.

While Dr Salinger's address is public, people are advised to book a place by contacting: * Marilyn Reddington, phone 941 8964 or email marilyn.reddington@ccc.govt.nz

Background This is Dr Salinger's fourth visit to Christchurch to present the NIWA seasonal climate outlooks and discuss climate issues that affect decisions local government, industry, farmers and others make.

ENDS

© Scoop Media