RISING sea levels, increased cases of skin cancer, even epidemics of malaria and food poisoning.

These are the potential threats facing Bournemouth due to climate change and will be discussed at a conference on Wednesday.

Experts from across Bournemouth and Poole will be gathering to discuss how society can prepare for climate change and to try and come up with innovative ideas to help locals cut their carbon footprint.

Studies show that climate change could have a major impact on the south west, with sea levels rising by as much as 60cm.

The make-up of sealife could change as coastal waters become warmer and inland transport could be disrupted by expanding railway lines and melting road surfaces.

Clare Hickinbotham of Bournemouth 2026 said: "Climate change is already happening and, as a seaside town, we need to prepare.

"I hope that by linking all of our 200 member organisations and agreeing some energy and fuel-saving practices we could help reduce the environmental impact of residents and visitors.

"Our message to local businesses is clear - the economic, social and health effects of climate change need to be addressed urgently.

"Companies that respond to the changing climate change through eco tourism and energy efficiency will have a competitive advantage.

"Doing nothing is not an option."

Local councils say they are already working hard to reduce environmental impact - a partnership between Bournemouth Borough Council and Marks & Spencer brought solar-powered compacting bins for the seafront, new recycling bins and electric bikes for the seafront rangers to use instead of vans.

They are also working to reduce energy consumption in council housing, through improved insulation. By 2050 Bournemouth council hopes to reduce its carbon footprint by 60 per cent.

It is ranked fourth in the country for waste recycling.

Tony Williams, executive director for environment and economic services, said: "As a council we are urging people to reduce, reuse and recycle.

"We're encouraging residents to avoid heavily packaged materials and also to reduce energy consumption by remembering to turn off lights when not in use and washing at 30 instead of 40.

"We welcome the opportunity to share our environmental expertise with local businesses and voluntary groups and to hear of any innovative projects we may be able to learn from or lend our support to."

Among those speaking at the conference at Bournemouth University are: Cllr Stephen MacLaughlin, leader of Bournemouth council, Cllr Brian Leverett, leader of Borough of Poole, Wessex Water and Dorset Energy Advice Centre.