A report on 'The Impact of Climate Change of Bermuda' forecasts stronger hurricanes and extensive flooding.

Up to 14 percent of the Island's land area could soon be at risk of flooding during high tides, while sea level rise and increased storm intensity will also threaten coastal areas.

Premier Ewart Brown highlighted the findings of the report, by Dr. Anne Glasspool, to MPs in the House of Assembly yesterday.

Dr. Brown said although the Island's size makes its greenhouse gas emissions "negligible" in global terms, the expected impact of climate change will necessitate extensive planning.

He said that in the past 20 years, the world's population has increased by a third. Annual emissions of greenhouse gases have also risen by a third.

"Bermuda's challenge will be for our leaders and our residents to understand and accept the science that supports climate change, be aware of the threats of climate change to Bermuda, and for us to come together and effectively plan for our future sustainability, by identifying, agreeing and adopting the correct mitigation measures to offset the forecasted threats of this global phenomenon," said Dr. Brown.

A public education initiative is now underway to raise awareness of the issue.

The Premier told MPs: "Through the combined efforts of the Ministry of Energy and the Ministry of the Environment, along with the architects of this work on the Bermuda perspective the Bermuda National Trust, and under the leadership and coordination of the Sustainable Development Unit, a series of public relations, education and information initiatives are being planned.

"Through this partnership, a coordinated effort will be made to educate and sensitise all residents to the importance of this subject."

Dr. Brown added: "Bermuda can set an example for other small islands with a coordinated and effective approach to addressing this issue.

"Such a coordinated approach has already been demonstrated in the compilation of the Sustainable Development Plan, and I am confident that we can facilitate a nationwide understanding of the issue and a comprehensive and realistic strategy that leads to a sustainable future for Bermuda."

'The Impact of Climate Change on Bermuda' was written by Dr. Glasspool for the Bermuda National Trust. It was also sponsored by Aspen Insurance Holdings Ltd.