Observing a Changing Climate, California Releases Adaptation Strategy

With $2.5 trillion in real estate assets at risk from extreme weather, sea level rise, and wildfires, reductions in the state’s already-stressed water supply, and public health threats from more intense heat waves, California is making a comprehensive plan for adapting to new climate patterns. Already a leader in efforts to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions that cause climate change, the state released a draft strategy on Monday to adapt to the changes scientists are observing even earlier than projected.

“Climate change is already affecting California,” states the discussion draft. “Sea levels have risen ... The state has also seen increased average temperatures, more extreme hot days, fewer cold nights, a lengthening of the growing season, shifts in the water cycle ... These climate driven changes affect resources critical to the health and prosperity of California.”

The adaptation strategy focuses on seven sectors: public health, biodiversity and habitat, ocean and coastal resources, water management, agriculture, forestry, and transportation and energy infrastructure. Among the preliminary recommendations are:

• Consider project alternatives that avoid significant new development in areas prone to flooding, storm surges, or coastal erosion.
• Fire fighting agencies should begin immediately to include climate change impact information into planning.
• The California Department of Public Health will develop guidance for local health departments to help ensure communities build resilience to increased spread of disease and hotter temperatures.
• Reduce per capita water use 20 percent by 2020, support agricultural water efficiency, and expand available state water storage.
• Major development and infrastructure projects should consider climate change impacts in order to comply with California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) guidelines.
• Expand and fund climate change impact research. The California Energy Commission will develop a web-based map and interactive website for use by local decision-makers.

The release of the draft adaptation strategy is followed by a 45-day public comment period and two public stakeholder meetings. The final plan is expected to be announced in October 2009.