OBJECTIVE: Climate adaptation and mitigation

About this objective

The effects of climate change transcend jurisdictional boundaries and impact the entire region, at all scales. People organize themselves into all sorts of different communities, from cities, to neighborhoods, ethnic and cultural communities, and communities based around interests or a particular geography. All scales and types of community are affected by climate change impacts. We must also recognize that under-resourced and historically disinvested communities often suffer the worst impacts of climate change. Climate change and environmental justice (equity considerations) are inextricably linked. Climate action must center environmental justice outcomes to build community and neighborhood-scale resilience.  

It is important to implement mitigation measures to stop climate impacts associated with climate change from worsening. At the same time, we must use nature-based and built solutions to adapt to current and future climate impacts and strengthen our resilience in the face of these challenges. Nature-based solutions are sustainable approaches that utilize natural ecosystems and biodiversity to address various environmental, social, and economic challenges.

The way our region develops impacts our ability to construct resilient cities, townships, and counties in the face of climate impacts. Development patterns that reduce impervious surface coverage and promote the use of green infrastructure can help reduce flooding during more intense rain events and cool areas impacted by the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect. Preserving and restoring tree canopies, especially in urban areas, supports cooling efforts while sequestering carbon. Adaptation and mitigation measures work hand in hand to increase climate resilience, which ultimately makes our region more livable, healthy, and economically strong.