Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2015L01818:front:0:p76
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2015L01818
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 218529–221619

global scale.

The park's terrestrial and marine environments are potentially exposed to a number of impacts associated with climate change. The park is likely to experience increased annual average temperatures (with up to +4.0°C projected by 2070) and increased potential evaporation (with up to +17 per cent projected by 2070). Average sea level is expected to rise by 50 centimetres by 2070. Uncertainty regarding annual average rainfall is high; rainfall may increase or decrease but the number of days over 35°C (+15 by 2070) is projected to increase (Hyder 2008).

Climate change projections such as these suggest the park will be exposed to a range of challenges. Increased frequency and intensity of fire arising from a drier and hotter climate regime has particular implications for fire-sensitive vegetation communities. Some invasive species may be favoured by changes in climate, increasing the threats they already pose to native species and their habitats.

Marginal sea level rise may have impacts on the marine environment and may damage sensitive coastal areas such as Bowen Island. Additionally, increased storm intensity will have impacts on both marine and freshwater environments. For example, more frequent large storms may lead to direct loss of seagrass habitat as well as damage to areas critical for shore-nesting seabirds.

The impact of climate change can be lessened by ensuring that all existing threats to the park's integrity are appropriately managed. Management of fire, weeds and pest species may need to be reviewed regularly under changing climatic conditions to assess and address resilience of species or habitats.

In 2006 the Director commissioned a study of the potential implications of climate change for managing Commonwealth reserves including Booderee (Hyder 2008). The results of this investigation have contributed to better understanding of and preparedness for changing conditions in the park and development of Parks Australia-wide and park-specific climate change strategies (see also Section 9.9, Resource Use in Park Operations).

Issues
    * Climate change is likely to affect many aspects of the park including:

     -            biodiversity—changes in distribution and abundance of plants and animals and an increased risk that exotic plant and animal species will spread

     -            fire—changes in fire frequency and intensity

     -            Indigenous and cultural values—possible changes in access to certain food sources and impacts on cultural sites of significance

     -            water resources—future viability of a dependable water supply and any ecological impacts of reduced water levels

     -            human health—increase in heat-related illness and in injuries from extreme weather events.

    * Up-to-date expert information is needed to assess the impacts and risks of climate change. Traditional owners and stakeholders need to be informed as knowledge of potential climate change impacts develops.

    * Provision of adequate resources is required to implement climate change strategies.