Climate change, its impact on Sidmouth and the Southwest, and some of the possible responses will be explored through a series of talks at this year's Sidmouth Science Festival, taking place from 9 to 18 October.
Four talks will look at different aspects of our changing climate, from Sidmouth's historical weather and possible future changes to the challenges facing the town's coastline and the potential of floating offshore wind as a source of renewable energy.
The programme begins on Friday 9 October with Professor Brian Golding's talk, Sidmouth's Changing Climate: Past, Present and Future. Using weather records dating back to the early 19th century, Professor Golding will explore how Sidmouth's climate has changed, what further changes might be expected and how the town may need to adapt. The talk is being held in partnership with the Devonshire Association.
On Saturday 10 October, Dr Malcolm Hart will consider Climate Change: Future Impacts and Problems in the Geology Hub. The talk will explore issues including heavier rainfall, marine heatwaves and rising sea levels, with examples from across the Southwest. These include flooding at Ottery St Mary, landslide risks along the Jurassic Coast and the implications of sea-level rise for places such as Pennington Point in Sidmouth.
The programme then turns to one possible response to climate change on Tuesday 13 October, when Kerry Hayes of Simply Blue Group presents Offshore Wind: The Celtic Sea Powerhouse. Supported by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, the talk will explore the technology behind floating wind, the scale of proposed developments and what the emerging industry could mean for the Southwest and South Wales.
The talk will also look at the Erebus floating wind demonstration project, including the scale of its turbines and floating structures, and the opportunities the industry could create for the region's engineering, manufacturing and marine sectors.
Finally, on Thursday 15 October, Coastal Flooding and Erosion: Sidmouth and East Beach Coastal Defence Scheme will bring the focus back to the town. Steve Donnelly and Steve Kershaw of South West Flood and Coastal will examine the science behind coastal erosion and flooding, and how engineers and environmental specialists are working on measures to protect Sidmouth and its coastline. The talk is being held in partnership with the Sid Vale Association.
Together, the talks offer a local perspective on a global issue, exploring how Sidmouth's climate is changing, the challenges facing its coastline and some of the scientific and engineering responses being considered for the future.
The Sidmouth Science Festival takes place from 9 to 18 October at venues across the town, with a programme of talks, events and activities.
Full details of the festival programme can be found on the Sidmouth Science Festival Website, with printed programmes also available from Sidmouth Tourist Information Centre, the library and other local outlets.