Just 20 of 6,600 Defra staff working on climate adaptation amid drought and wildfires
Summary
Only 20 people out of 6,613 staff at the UK’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) work on climate adaptation. Experts warn the UK is not prepared for extreme weather caused by climate change, such as droughts, wildfires, and floods, which could cost the economy billions each year by 2050.Key Facts
- Just 0.3% of Defra staff focus on adapting to climate change effects.
- Climate change could increase river flooding by up to 45% and cause daily water shortages over 5 billion litres.
- Economic losses from failing to adapt could reach £60 billion to £260 billion per year by 2050.
- The UK faces heatwaves, droughts, and wildfires, including nearly 1,000 wildfires so far this year.
- Firefighters say the UK needs 5,000 more staff and better equipment to handle wildfires.
- Environmental groups urge government action to cut pollution, prepare communities, and protect nature.
- The current environment secretary, Angela Eagle, and regional leaders like Andy Burnham are called upon to improve climate policies.
- The UK lacks specialized wildfire-fighting planes that other European countries have.
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