Getting Started
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Local Action Roundup
by adrianacostellodougherty Jun 24, 2009
The Florida Keys: Canary in the Coal Mine for Climate Impacts
by Don Knapp Jun 24, 2009
Guest Blogger: Rebecca Carter, PhD, ICLEI Climate Adaptation Manager; Part 1 in a series (read Part 2 here) While the impacts of climate change may seem somewhat abstract and distant in many communities, they are becoming very real in the Florida Keys. Sea level rise and water supply challenges are already affecting Key West, and there is concern about how such changes will affect the region’s protected places and endangered species. “We are feeling some of the most severe impacts of climate change first, and we have no escape route,” says Alison Higgins, President of Florida Keys Green Living and Energy Education and staff of The Nature Conservancy, thinking about the limitations to adaptation in the Keys. “We’re the canary in the coal mine for climate change impacts in the U.S…We want to be seen as an example of why it’s important for other local governments to work hard on [climate] mitigation [to reduce carbon emissions.] Because that’s going to help us, and themselves.” Key West is already taking action to lessen the negative effects of impacts such as sea level rise and water shortages. The community of about 26,000 residents is undertaking about $40 million in road repairs, some of which are needed due to sea level rise pushing high tides higher than ever before. Annalise Mannix, Environmental Programs Manager and Volunteer Coordinator for the City of Key West, notes that about 10 of the community’s roads now flood regularly during many high tides—including iconic Duval Street, one of the community’s most historic main streets.
Higher Tides = More Flooding
Local Action Roundup
by Don Knapp Jun 24, 2009
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