Hume Climate Action

Hume Climate Action

Climate change is predicted to have significant consequences for the biodiversity of the Central Hume region. Research indicates that the effects of climate change will occur at many different levels, from individual animals to ecosystems. Species may alter their distribution, abundance, behaviour and the timing of events such as migration or breeding.

The most susceptible species will be those with restricted or specialised habitat requirements or small populations, as well as those that lack the ability to disperse easily.

Climate change will also have indirect impacts on biodiversity, through increased pressure from competitors, predators, parasites, diseases and disturbances. Altered patterns of water flow in rivers and wetlands and decreasing snow cover, combined with the increased occurrence of bushfires, droughts and floods will influence the composition of ecosystems, particularly in alpine areas.

The future climate of the Hume Region is predicted to be hotter and drier than the long-term average, resulting in an increased risk of droughts and extreme fire danger days.