Unless action is taken, this report shows that the Fens – one of the UK’s most vital agricultural and ecological regions – faces unprecedented threat because of rising temperatures, sea level rise, and escalating climate risks.
The Fens is the UK’s largest coastal lowland, known for its productive agriculture and unique ecosystems, and home to a growing population and economy.
The Fens Climate Change Risk Assessment (CCRA) (PDF), from the Tyndall Centre for Climate Change Research at the University of East Anglia and in collaboration with Sayers and Partners and the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, shows that rising temperatures will bring intensified flooding, severe droughts, biodiversity loss, and drastic disruptions to agriculture in the Fens.
We urgently need coordinated action to respond to the impacts of climate change, which already affects everyone living and working in the Fens. To do so, we must now make strategic choices and secure the necessary investment.
Dr. Katie Jenkins, Lead Researcher on the report, states:
“This assessment shows that the Fens cannot face the climate crisis with isolated measures. The challenges are interconnected, and the solutions must be as well. This report lays the foundation for coordinated, meaningful action.”
This place-based assessment serves not only as a critical call to action but as a guiding roadmap for stakeholders and decision-makers to safeguard the region’s future.
Download the Fens Climate Change Risk Assessment or read the report below:
Fens Climate Change Risk AssessmentInfographics on climate impacts
The infographics below show impact to agriculture, biodiversity, drought, flooding and heat. Click to enlarge.
- Find out more about “Future Fens: Integrated Adaptation”, a strategic partnership initiative that aims to work across sectors to secure a vibrant future for the Fens
Image credit: Artwork by Jessica Clark
