Climate change is likely to affect Oxford worse than many other parts of the UK, according to a report by Green Euro MP Caroline Lucas.

Global Warming, Local Warning, a study of the likely impacts of climate change on the South East, warns freak and extreme weather conditions could cost the region's economy millions.

Each Oxford resident is responsible for, on average, more than one tonne of carbon dioxide emissions a year, it reports -- twice that produced by Southampton residents but only half that generated by people in south Buckinghamshire.

Ms Lucas presented her findings during a visit to Osney Island, off Botley Road, which has been repeatedly affected by flooding.

Residents have taken steps to reduce their contribution to climate change, forming the Osney Sustainable Island Group.

The aim is to develop renewable energy sources including solar power, heat pumps and water power from the Thames itself, with a view to making the island 100 per cent self-sufficient in energy.

Dr Lucas, a member of the European Parliament's environment committee, said the emission of carbon dioxide and other 'greenhouse gases' would increase temperatures and change rainfall patterns, with more flooding, loss of woodland, an upsurge in tropical diseases and widespread economic disruption.

Dr Lucas said: "Oxford residents are used to paying the price of flooding and freak weather events.

"The sobering truth is they will become increasingly frequent and severe as the effects of global warming are felt.

"The Government could adopt ecological taxation policies to discourage emissions and meet the rising costs of flood defence and divert economic growth in the overheating South East to other regions in the UK.

"Solutions will be found nationally and locally, with excellent initiatives such as this adopted on Osney Island."

Alistair Lloyd, 38, of South Street, Osney Island, said: "We want to reduce pollution associated with energy use or waste production.

"We are trying to raise awareness among islanders and our main aim is to bring in a hydro scheme to generate electricity at Osney Lock."