The potential impacts of climate change in Denmark

If the human influence on the atmosphere proceeds unchanged, it may result in climate changes, for Denmark comprising a temperature rise by the end of next century of about 3 deg. C as a yearly average. The precipitation may increase slightly, and the relative sea level rise between 30 and 50 cm. Generally the immediate consequences for Denmark within the next century may be so modest, that they can be managed through planned adjustment supported by an expected technological development. A possible exception is the natural ecosystems, where climate changes may be too rapid for adjustment of some animals and plants; this may cause temporary instability and in the long run changes in the composition of species. Denmark is however - ecologically as well as politically and economically - a small, open system. The development in the rest of the world may therefore in many cases be decisive. (au)