Local Euro MP Sharon Bowles calls for tough action on climate change ahead of Copenhagen Summit

11.15.00am GMT Wed 2nd Dec 2009

Sharon Bowles at Bewl Water in Kent

Lib Dem MEP Sharon Bowles has called for tough action to be taken to tackle climate change ahead of the 15th United Nations Climate Change Summit in Copenhagen next week.

According to Climate South East, a not for profit partnership of organisations committed to tackling climate change in Sharon's constituency of South East England, climate change has led to; hotter, drier summers; milder, wetter winters; and more frequent and extreme weather events, including heat waves, droughts and floods.

Sharon Bowles said: "It is absolutely imperative that next week's Climate Change Summit in Copenhagen is a success. There is a disturbing list of consequences if we do not take action now."

According to Climate South East, parts of the South East are at significant risk from winter flooding. In addition to flood damage, summer heat waves could lead to an increase in serious health problems, including skin cancer.

Sharon Bowles said: "In addition to the immediate, tangible risks, there are long-term implications. Flooding and draught could cause businesses in the South East to suffer - with transport routes and crops affected, tourism and trade could dwindle."

The Copenhagen Summit, which will be attended by leaders from across the globe, including President Obama, hopes to achieve a consensus on ways to tackle climate change, specifically, a reduction in carbon emissions.

Sharon Bowles said: "With very real consequences for the world, including the South East of England, I hope that Copenhagen is a success. Otherwise, it's back to the drawing board."

ENDS