Act to Adapt

Somerset is experiencing increased risks from sea level rise and more unpredictable weather patterns that lead to flooding, drought and wildfires. After extreme events like floods or heatwaves, very often the focus is on resilience; being able to bounce back after the damage is done. While learning from these events and building resilience is important, as the climate continues to change these events are happening more often and are becoming more extreme and unpredictable as well as inevitable.

The climate will continue to shift for a long time to come, and we need to find a way to live with these changes. Taking adaptation actions can help limit or avoid the negative effects of climate change, and even maximise any positive opportunities it may present. 

Somerset Wildlife Trust’s Act to Adapt process is supporting communities across Somerset to adapt to climate change through a series of collaborative events. Taking the following steps, communities are creating and implementing climate adaptation plans, proactively responding to climate threats in their local area whilst simultaneously building community, supporting local wildlife, and increasing wellbeing. 

A massive thank you to Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA) who funded the Act to Adapt process for Glastonbury and the Poldens. Due to the generosity of SRA, we are beginning the process in three new locations: Wells, Spaxton, and the Martock area.

Why not get in touch and see how your community can get involved? Contact Natalie Barnett, Climate Adaptation Officer on natalie.barnett@somersetwildlife.org

Find out how each of these communities have taken steps to combat climate change in their areas.