Climate change is affecting the natural, social and economic welfare of NSW – in particular changes to our everyday weather and the weather extremes that drive natural disasters throughout the state.
Changes in some types of natural hazards have already been observed. For example, there have been increases in the frequency and intensity of heatwaves and in heavy rain.
Through these changes in weather, climate change will not only affect our health and wellbeing but will also impact the natural environment that supports our way of life.
These changes will impact our agriculture and built environments, our coasts and oceans, as well as our diverse natural ecosystems, and the connections we have with these special places.
By better understanding these impacts, we can prepare and adapt to the changes we have seen and expect in the future.
![Coastline with habitations close to the edge of a cliff in a stormy weather with an impressive wave splashing up the cliff to the houses](/sites/default/files/2023-02/StormsAndFlood2_Curated_29x15.jpg)
![Two small black and white birds on a rock surrounded by their chicks.](/sites/default/files/2021-05/3.%20Why%20Adapt_Impacts%20of%20climate%20change_on%20our%20natural%20environment%20landing_HERO%201_Biodiversity1_Imager_2x1.jpg)
![Shoreline of a large lake showing water next to land.](/sites/default/files/2023-02/3.-Why-Adapt_Impacts-of-climate-change_water-resources_HERO-1_WaterRessources1_Image_2x1.jpg)
![A field of bright yellow flowers against a blue sky](/sites/default/files/2023-02/Agriculture1_Image_2x1.jpg)
![Young girl from the Barkindji nation preparing leaves for a smoking ceremony.](/sites/default/files/2023-02/3.-Why-Adapt_Impacts-of-climate-change_Cultural-heritage_HERO-2_CulturalValues2_Image_2x1_0.jpg)
![4 surfers coming out of the ocean at sunrise with hills in the background](/sites/default/files/2021-05/HealthAndWellbeing2_Image_2x1.jpg)
![Aerial Sydney cityscape at dusk including office buildings a church and streets.](/sites/default/files/2023-02/MetropolitanSydney2_Curated_29x15-%281%29.jpg)
![Nigh time view of shipping containers at a port](/sites/default/files/2023-02/Economy_Image_2x1_0_0.jpg)