HISTORIC monuments like York Minster, in this computer-generated image, could be at risk of flooding by 2050 if we do not avert a climate change crisis by curbing our use of fossil fuels, a new report claimed today.

Forecasting The Future, a startling look at potential climate change in the United Kingdom over the next 80 years, warns that some of Yorkshire and Humberside's most valuable assets will be lost if the population does not change its behaviour, with the damage likely to cost £200 billion.

The report, which was produced by the energy saving Trust (EST), predicts that places like the North York Moors could have to close to the public more often as dry summers leave heathlands and moorlands increasingly vulnerable to wildfires.

Seaside towns like Scarborough, Whitby and Bridlington could experience rising sea levels, while milder winters could pose problems for Yorkshire's world-renowned rhubarb industry, as the crop needs cold spells to thrive.

Philip Sellwood, chief executive of EST, said the report painted a "disturbing picture" of what could happen to our environment without a drastic reduction in energy use and carbon dioxide emissions.

He said: "It is imperative that Yorkshire and Humberside households become more aware of the energy we use in our homes and act now.

"This can be as simple as turning thermostats down by one degree, replacing ordinary lightbulbs with low energy ones or even walking to the shops instead of taking the car."

The EST is a not-for-profit organisation, set up by the Government after the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro. It is funded in partnership with the private sector.

The release of the report, published in partnership with the UK Climate Impacts Programme, coincides with the launch of Energy Efficiency Week.

City of York Council's executive member for environment and sustainability, Coun Andrew Waller, said the local authority was working to promote renewable energy and energy saving.

"As a council, we are using renewable electricity, for which we have won an award from NPower and, through the Energy Advice Centre, local people have access to free and impartial information on how to do their bit."

Updated: 10:11 Monday, October 25, 2004