Freshwater and climate change

Climate change and its impacts on water resources were in focus at a meeting of European environment ministers in Bratislava, Slovakia, from 11th to 12th July. Sigrún Magnúsdóttir, the Minister of the Environment and Natural Resources, attended the meeting on behalf of Iceland. The minister stated that the rapid retreat of glaciers is a cause for concern, as it could affect water resources and the utilisation of hydropower.

The Minister of the Environment and Natural Resources indicated that Iceland has an abundance of freshwater, and there is no foreseeable problem in that regard. However, climate change does affect water resources in Iceland, as scientists predict that the country's glaciers could largely disappear within one or two centuries if greenhouse gas emissions are not brought under control. The glaciers of Iceland are a visible manifestation of climate change, and efforts are being made to educate visitors to national parks about the interaction between glaciers and climate.

The minister said that wetlands needed to be examined specifically in the context of freshwater and climate issues. Wetland restoration could have positive effects by reducing carbon dioxide emissions.

The minister highlighted research and innovation in climate-friendly solutions in Iceland. New results from pilot projects showed that the injection of carbon dioxide and its mineralisation is a viable option in the fight against climate change. Pilot projects regarding green shipping technology are also yielding results. Iceland is interested in collaborating with other countries on this and other areas.

Droughts, floods and the refugee crisis

It was noted at the meeting that significant changes in precipitation and water levels in Europe are expected this century due to climate change. Damage caused by both floods and droughts is expected to increase. Projections indicate increased rainfall in northern Europe but decreased rainfall in southern Europe. There is particular concern that droughts in summer will become a significant issue in Southern Europe as the century progresses. By the end of the 21st century, precipitation in that region could be similar to what is currently observed in North Africa. This calls for much better water management, particularly in agriculture to maintain food production.

Prospects for freshwater are dire in many parts of the world due to increased droughts and the pressures of population growth. There is a risk of drought and water scarcity in the Middle East and large parts of Africa, which could greatly increase the refugee crisis.

The meeting in Bratislava was attended by environment ministers from EU member states and EFTA, as well as from Turkey and Albania.

Source: www.umhverfisraduneyti.is