Climate Change Issues

Overview: what is global climate change?
There is a scientific consensus that concentrations of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere are increasing due to human activities and that this is affecting current and future climate at the global scale. In the New York metropolitan region, climate change is likely to lead to warmer temperatures and more heat waves, more droughts and floods, and accelerated sea-level rise. Although it is not known how quickly climate change will occur and what its eventual magnitude will be, there is evidence that climate changes are already occurring. Scientists project that these changes are likely to accelerate as the twenty-first century progresses. These issue briefs focus on providing key information related to global climate change and its potential effects on the New York metropolitan region, and on responses for regional decision-makers and the general public.

Regional Impacts: how will climate change affect the New York metropolitan region?
The impacts of climate change will be felt throughout the New York metropolitan region. In these questions and answers, we emphasize the coastal and transportation sectors, and also discuss briefly energy and public health impacts. The region’s coastal environments and communities are particularly vulnerable to storm surges and flooding, which are projected to occur more frequently in the future. The extensive low-lying transportation infrastructure, which is vital to the region’s economy, is also at particular risk.

Preparing for a Different Future: Adaptation
Limiting Future Climate Change: Mitigation
Decision-making that recognizes the importance of climate change could help to maintain or improve quality of life in the New York metropolitan region. Preparing to adapt to climate change by taking steps to protect coastal communities and infrastructure could reduce future damages and associated costs. Taking steps to slow down greenhouse gas emissions and to enhance the sequestration of carbon dioxide could eventually help to curb climate change. Decisions made by public agencies, the private sector, and individuals are important in how the region experiences climate change and could contribute to its reduction.