The costs
We'll all be affected by climate change unless we take action now. In our lifetimes, we could see negative impacts on our weather, environment, health and cost of living.
More hot days
The CSIRO predicts that by 2070, the average temperature in Victoria will rise by between 0.7 and 5°C above the levels measured in the 1990's.
As a general trend, the frequency of days over 35°C will increase. In some areas, this could be by up to three times as much. By 2070, for example:
- Melbourne will experience an increase in the number of extremely hot days from eight per year to as many as 20
- Wangaratta will move from 15 to as many as 56 days.
Less rain
Victoria can expect less rainfall with climate change. In combination with higher temperatures, this means drier conditions. Studies predict:
- stream flows in the Murray Darling Basin will decrease by 12 to 25 percent
- Melbourne's water supply will decrease by between 7 to 35 percent.
More bushfires
In some regions, the risk of bushfire is likely to increase by up to 60 percent by 2050.
Less snow
Victoria's alpine areas may have between 18 to 60 percent less natural snow cover by 2020.
Across Australia, we can expect serious consequences from a temperature change as small as 2°C
Threatened natural environment
The Australian landscape will be changed forever. In your lifetime, you could see damage such as:
- 58 to 81 percent of the Great Barrier Reef bleached
- 40 percent of core habitat for eucalyptus species destroyed
- 80 percent of freshwater wetlands in Kakadu eliminated.
Shifting coastlines
Sea levels are predicted to rise by between seven and 49 centimeters by 2070. Erosion along our coastline will continue to increase each year as floods arrive more frequently.
Higher insurance
As the weather becomes less predictable and extreme events more likely, the cost of global insurance premiums will increase.
Declining health
Changes in the climate will affect our health. Children, the elderly and asthmatics will be experience increases in heat-related health problems.
It is estimated that in Melbourne, extreme heat-related deaths may increase by 20 to 60 percent by 2050. An increase in smog will also lead to associated health problems.
Related Information
Quick Action: Keeping Clean
Washing your clothes in cold water not only cuts your energy costs, it also protects your clothes.
