Welsh Friends explore flood defences
On 21 October Aberystwyth Meeting welcomed the public to explore local peacebuilding in the context of climate breakdown
Aberystwyth Meeting welcomed the public to explore local peacebuilding in the context of climate breakdown last week. The event on 12 October aimed to look at ‘how international issues are present on our own front step. Starting with Aberystwyth, we’ll consider what meaningful local action can be taken now to build a safer future’.
The agenda included a presentation of possible future flooding scenarios in Aberystwyth, which has experienced flash flooding. It also looked at Quaker processes of community-organising and how discernment can identify positive actions.
Last year a report from Friends of the Earth said that Wales is becoming more prone to extreme weather events, including flooding, due to the climate emergency. The impact is worse on lower-income households who cannot afford to make their homes flood-resistant or the insurance premiums to cover flooding.
‘Not enough emphasis has been placed on restoring nature as part of reducing flood risk, such as the full restoration of peatlands and sea marshes, tree planting, reintroduction of beavers, and increasing green spaces and water storage in urban areas,’ it went on.
The Welsh government says that over 245,000 homes and properties are at risk from flooding and coastal erosion.
The event at St Paul’s Methodist Church was co-organised with Britain Yearly Meeting’s Faith in Action team.
