Monday 10 December 2007

• January was the 4th warmest January
• March the 5th sunniest March
• April the warmest and the 4th sunniest April ever
• May was the 4th wettest on record.
• Spring 2007 was the 2nd warmest ever recorded in Scotland, beaten only by 2003.
• 2007 is predicted to be the warmest year ever globally

Scotland has already seen one month more than 3°C above the average, two months more than 2°C warmer than average and three months more than 1°C warmer than average. 2007 is likely to be one of the warmest and wettest years ever recorded in Scotland.

Dr Dan Barlow, Acting Director of WWF Scotland said, "The higher than normal average temperatures we have seen in many months during 2007 have continued in November, keeping 2007 firmly on track to be one of the warmest years ever recorded. Last month we also experienced a lower than average amount of sunshine.

"Santa Claus probably won't need snow shoes when he's doing his rounds this year, and neither will many people across Scotland. The reality of climate change and the pattern of warmer temperatures makes a white Christmas in Scotland a more remote possibility every year.

"Critical climate negotiations are underway in Bali and rich countries must show they are serious about stopping global warming in its tracks – and we must do our bit here in Scotland. With the Government committed to producing a strong Scottish Climate Bill, Scotland can demonstrate international leadership and be part of a progressive global effort to deliver rapid cuts in climate emissions.

"The clean technologies and smart policies necessary to combat climate change exist already - all we need is for political decision-makers to give them the strong support they deserve," concluded Dr Barlow.