ABI manifesto calls on government to develop strategy to deal with the effects of climate change
The ABI (Association of British Insurers) has stepped up pressure on the government to develop an effective climate change strategy with the publication of its climate change adaptation manifesto.
In the document the ABI sets out strategic solutions and action needed to manage key threats such as maintaining habitable housing, reliable transport and safe water supplies.
Stephen Haddrill, ABI’s director general, commented: “However successful we are at reducing our carbon footprint now, weather damage will worsen over the next 40 years because of past emissions. The Government needs to invest at least £750 million a year in flood defences, and should use the Climate Change Bill and Comprehensive Spending Review to set out an effective climate risk management strategy. Insurers remain committed to working with Government and our customers to help manage the consequences of climate change”.
The manifesto outlines measures that need to be in place by 2011 for Britain to be prepared for climate change including:
• Greater investment in flood defences. At least £750m a year (a 10% annual rise on current levels) needs to be spent by 2011. This needs to be addressed by the Comprehensive Spending Review
• Hospitals, schools and regeneration projects to be built to standards that cope with the climate of 2050.
• Adaptation measures must be treated as seriously as emissions reduction.
• Energy supplies to be protected against severe weather.
