UK-wide: The Fourth Independent Assessment of UK Climate Risk

The Climate Change Committee has published their Fourth Independent Assessment of UK Climate Risk (CCRA4-IA) following “UK’s hottest year on record” in 2025, where “almost all of Scotland experienced an early warning of water scarcity.” They note “the UK has been warming faster than the global average” and that “local authorities play a key role in the UK’s response to climate change” including, in Scotland, acting “as responsible authorities and lead on Local Flood Risk Management Plans.”

Regarding water and wastewater, the key messages include 1) The water and wastewater system is not fit for the current, let alone future, climate and 2) Water and wastewater utilities need to accelerate and improve delivery of adaptation.

The Committee further point out that urgent “critical action” is needed in Scotland regarding adaptation to climate change risks to buildings, communities, infrastructure services, food security, financial institutions, and economic stability.