Release of CSIRO report on impact of Greenhouse Effect

Heavy rainstorms similar to those experienced in Perth in February, might increase as a result of the Greenhouse Effect.

This was one of the major findings contained in a CSIRO report released today by Environment Minister Bob Pearce.

Mr Pearce said the report, entitled The Greenhouse Effect - Regional implications for Western Australia - had suggested that heavy rainstorms were likely to become more frequent over coming decades and that stormy weather could have a greater impact along the coast than would any rise in sea level.

"These findings have important implications for the stability of agricultural soils and beaches," Mr Pearce said.

"Heavier rainstorms could lead to summer erosion and changed beach erosion patterns.

"A lot of work is already being done in rural areas to manage soil erosion through improved farming practices - this latest information obviously gives greater weight to the need for landcare programs.

"The report suggests that predicted sea level rises of three centimetres to ten centimetres a decade may well be less important for many coastal areas than the increase in storms, especially if tropical cyclones and other low pressure systems become more intense and more frequent.

"This report again acknowledges the uncertainties of Greenhouse research and predictions - nevertheless, we must continue to compile good information on which planning and development decisions can be based."

The report is the second annual report on regional implications of the Greenhouse Effect in Western Australia prepared by the Climate Impact Group in the CSIRO Division of Atmospheric Research.

Mr Pearce said the CSIRO would continue its four-year research agreement with the State Government which is being managed through the Environmental Protection Authority.