The ABCs of Climate Change
Climate Change is one of the world’s top challenges.
It refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. And it’s often filled with confusion and controversy. But how are we seeing and feeling the impacts of climate change now? How do we prepare ourselves? The ABCs of Climate Change can help us better understand.
A – Awareness. Climate change is affecting New York City in various ways. So what does this look like: Widespread Flooding and Subway Shutdowns after every heavy rainfall, displacing millions of weekday commuters. More heat waves and days above 90 degrees during. By 2050, the number is projected to more than triple, from 18 days to 57.
B – Best Practices. So what are some best practices in adapting to Climate Change and reducing carbon emissions: Change your transportation, reduce driving by walking and biking instead, and use mass transit. Change your food choices, eat less meat and more plant based foods. Reduce food waste and compost instead of sending it to landfills. Change your daily habits, use recyclable products, buy less paper products, and aim to consume less in general.
C – Creating Solutions. New York City is leading efforts in creating solutions. So what are some of the initiatives? Local Law 97 has increased the Retrofitting of Buildings with energy efficient solutions like LED Lighting and Solar Panel installation, aiming to reduce building emissions 40% by 2030. The $100 Million Dollar Climate Innovation Hub at Brooklyn Army Terminal will create Workforce Development and Training Programs for the 400,000 Green-Collar jobs projected by 2040. The City’s Strategic Climate Plan and Mayor Adams’ Green Economy Action Plan both reimagine our communities to create a more equitable, healthy, and resilient future.
The ABCs of Climate Change can provide a start for helping us do our part in saving the planet.
John is a journalist covering climate for City Newsroom. He moonlights as a geographer, historian, and professor. John is a native of Baconton, Georgia and a graduate of Florida A&M University with expertise in history, geography, urban studies, higher education leadership, HBCUs, and environmental justice.