Climate Change Impact in Asturias: Effects and Solutions

Climate Change Impact in Asturias

A long-term global reduction in CO2 emissions by at least 50% in 2050 compared to 1990 is crucial.

Main Problems

Addressing the following challenges is essential:

• Reducing carbon emissions from developed countries.
• Promoting economic growth without harming the environment.
• Fostering cooperation to help developing countries.

Climate Change in Asturias: An Introduction

The Earth is interconnected, and changes in one area affect the whole. Climate change is worsening globally and is increasingly evident in Asturias. Adapting to these changes will require modifications to public works on the coast to address marine phenomena that exceed current artificial barriers, especially in eastern Asturias.

Effects of Climate Change

Warmer Climate Trends

Unlike the Mediterranean, where sea currents have little effect on climate, Asturias benefits from the Gulf Stream, resulting in a milder climate than its geographical location would suggest. Without it, Asturias would experience freezing winters and rainy summers. However, most studies indicate a trend toward a warmer, Mediterranean-like climate.

Cantabrian Sea Warming

INDUROT highlights that the most notable effects of climate change will occur in the Cantabrian Mountains. The Cantabrian Sea has warmed by 1.5 degrees Celsius in the last three decades. A one-degree variation can drastically change fishing stocks. Studies on sea level rise range from moderate estimates, such as documents from the Ministry of Environment projecting a 68 cm rise by the end of the century, to reports indicating an increase of several meters. Increased storm intensity in the Bay of Biscay is also a significant concern.

Impact on Ski Resorts

Climate change threatens Asturian ski resorts like Valgrande-Pajares, which do not exceed 2,100m above sea level. With moderate temperature increases, snow cannons may only ensure the viability of Pajares and San Isidro. Higher temperatures will lead to a drastic decrease in precipitation as snow and significant delays in winter snow cover.

Broader Impacts of Climate Change

The consequences of climate change extend to various aspects of the Asturian environment:

• Loss of chestnut and beech forests.
• Increased forest pests.
• Increased fire frequency and intensity.
• Potential disappearance of salmon from Asturian rivers.
• Threats to species of the Cantabrian Mountains, such as Urogallos and bears.
• Invasive species proliferation.
• Impacts on amphibians.
• Effects on fisheries.
• Changes in species of the intertidal zone.