Climate change may force vineyards to relocate
http://www.irishtimes.com/news/world/climate-change-may-force-vineyards-to-relocate-1.1376737
Europes winemakers may not only need to change the grape varieties they cultivate but may need to relocate their vineyards in some cases as a result of climate change, according to a new report published by the European Environment Agency.
The Adaptation in Europe report describes policies and measures taken at EU level and by individual member states including plans to upgrade the Thames Barrier in London so it can be adjusted depending on the trend in sea level rise.
Jacqueline McGlade, the agencys executive director, said adaptation was about new ways of thinking and dealing with risks and hazards, uncertainty and complexity, and it was clear that all European countries still have a lot of work to do.
An earlier report from the agency showed that climate change is already affecting all regions in Europe, causing a wide range of impacts on society and the environment, and warned that there would be further effects if no action was taken. Although there is a consensus on seeking to limit the rise in global temperatures to 2 degrees, the latest report says it will be necessary to prepare for an even hotter world and other changes in climate, such as increases in the incidence of flooding.