Climate change is one of the biggest threats to the environment, the social and economic environment. Observations indicate increases in global average water and ocean temperatures, widespread melting of snow and ice, and average global sea level rise. It is very likely that, for the most part, heating could be attributed to greenhouse gas emissions from human activities.

The impacts of climate change have already been observed and are expected to become more pronounced. Extreme climatic events, including heat waves, droughts and floods, are expected to become more frequent and intense. In Europe, the largest temperature rises occur in southern Europe and the Arctic region. Rainfall decreases in southern Europe and increases in the north / northwest. This has impacts on natural ecosystems, human health and water resources. Economic sectors such as forestry, agriculture, tourism and construction will largely suffer harmful consequences. The agricultural sector in northern Europe can benefit from a limited increase in temperature.