Latest scientific research indicates that during the coming decades the UK is likely to experience an increase in the frequency of extreme weather events and a gradual increase in temperature and winter precipitation.

• UKCIP key findings

This predicted climate change could have a number of implications for the way in which transport networks are designed, built, maintained and operated. For example, increased precipitation may lead to flooded road and rail routes, increased temperatures may deform road surfaces and buckle rail tracks and increases in storm intensity and frequency may impede port and airport operations.

The Department’s priority is to improve understanding of how the predicted changes could impact upon all transport modes and how the transport sector can be supported in their efforts to build greater resilience for a sustainable transport network.

Defra leads the cross-Government ‘Adapting to Climate Change Programme’ which ensures compliance with the 2008 Climate Change Act’s adaptation requirements.

• Adapting to climate change
• Climate Change Act (2008)

The Department plays an active role in the work streams designed to achieve the Climate Change Act’s requirements such as the:

• National climate change risk assessment
• Adaptation reporting power
• National adaptation programme

The DfT’s Departmental Adaptation Plan (2010-2012) outlines the Department’s actions to embed the consideration of climate change risks into decision making processes.

• Departmental adaptation plan