Anglian Water has welcomed the Government’s new climate change projections, announced today by Environment Secretary Hilary Benn.
The company worked closely with Defra and UKCIP (The UK Climate Impact Programme), providing case studies to assist in the development of today’s announcement. Our Chief Executive, Jonson Cox, is speaking alongside Hilary Benn at the official launch of the projections in Westminster this afternoon.
The figures are designed to prompt debate about future measures that can be taken against the impact of global warming. Jonson Cox said: “The new climate projections take us all another major step forward in our ability to plan, adapt, and take positive action. Our hope is that as a result of what we see today, every business from sole trader to major plc that does not already utilise the projections, should do so as a matter of good and responsible business practice”.
We are a leading voice in the climate change debate in the region. Jonson Cox has led discussions with the Prime Minister about how business needs to adapt to meet future risks, as part of the Prince of Wales’s Corporate Leaders Group.
He said: “We plan to spend £37m in flood protection at 27 water sites and 81 pumping stations. We have 65 per cent of our domestic customers on a water meter, which is the biggest proportion of any major water company in the UK; with a target for 80 per cent by 2015.
“Projects are already underway in Norwich and Peterborough for improving the resilience of the water supply system, and £58m of further investment in resilience is planned over the next 5 years.
“We are actively supporting water cycle studies, which are now in place with every local authority, and at regional level too. These are just some of the practical ways we are adapting our business – planning and investing for change“.
Environment Minster Hilary Benn told the House of Commons today: “Climate change is going to transform the way we live. These projections show us both the future we need to avoid and the future we need to plan for. As well as cutting emissions, we have to start making changes today”.
Jonson Cox echoed the Minister’s hopes, that the new figures should be seen as a positive tool for change: “This will bring more accurate business planning and risk management, as well as more informed investment decisions. Our assets can be better placed and protected, thereby protecting people and places from the worst impacts of climate change. This is an essential business tool for an organisation, not a burden on management resources.
“This is all about protecting customers, communities and employees, while sustaining strong businesses that are the key to helping secure jobs, international competitiveness and livelihoods. And on it all, the future of our planet depends.”