While we’ve been basking over the past few weeks in some amazing weather here in Worthing West, bringing packed beaches and a welcome boost to our visitor numbers, the sheer extremes we’ve been experiencing must also give us pause for thought.

Few would now doubt that human-led climate change is very much a reality and is happening right before our eyes.

Last year was officially the hottest year ever recorded in the UK, with this year’s temperatures breaking even more records, contributing to unprecedented wildfires right across the country including here in Sussex and, according to Met Office and London School of Hygiene figures, an estimated 2,700 excess deaths in England and Wales during May and June.

From a public health perspective, there are a number of wider impacts, particularly for older adults, infants, people with chronic illnesses, outdoor workers, and those living in poorly ventilated homes.

placeholder image — Worthing West MP Beccy Cooper

Extreme heat worsens existing health conditions and greatly increases hospital admissions. As a result, the NHS has been experiencing pressures similar to those expected in the winter months, with ambulance services and emergency departments stretched to the limit.

The only rational response now must be to redouble on our climate commitments while preparing for the inevitable changes to come. Locally, developments like the town centre heat network, extending the Rampion windfarm and the creation of a green urban oasis in Montague Gardens are great examples of what can be done.

Borough-wide tree planting and upgrades to our sea defences are also positive works in progress. Protecting and extending our green spaces will also help reduce urban heat islands, and extending active travel routes will cut particle pollution and carbon emissions from cars, both of which are exacerbated by hot weather.

Nationally, too, much is being done to both invest in green energy and sustain our environment into the future, with £8.3billion being put into the creation of Great British Energy, £7billion into nature recovery and £5.9billion for environmental farming schemes alone.

The challenge now is to stick to our manifesto commitments and net-zero goals, to continue on the path to a cleaner, greener and safer future.

As I never tire of saying, we are so lucky to live here in Worthing West, with the opportunity to enjoy a dip in the sea or a stroll on the Downs, right here on our doorstep. But for all the pleasures of such an amazing summer so far, we must stay mindful that weather conditions like the ones we’ve been experiencing will only become more extreme – and more harmful – unless we keep going further and faster in the fight against global climate change.

As always, you can contact me at [email protected]