A new report by the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives highlights twenty local government across the country that are taking the initiative to combat global warming.
The report follows up an earlier survey ICLEI did of 298 American cities, which found that 74 percent had perceived changes in the climate -- including increased storm intensity, higher temperatures, and more precipitation.
That's weather, you saps, not climate!
Almost two-thirds are pursuing adaptation planning for climate change, compared to 68 percent globally, and virtually all U.S. cities report difficulties acquiring funding for adaptation efforts.
More money for more projects!
Only Latin American cities reported similar levels of difficulty.) And over one-third of U.S. cities said the federal government does not understand the realities of climate change adaptation.Because the Feds have enough money troubles of their own.
Several examples from ICLEI's new report on local adaptation efforts include:
New York City, NY shouldered 43 deaths and $19 billion in damage from Superstorm Sandy. The city's sustainability plan, PlaNYC, includes $2.4 billion in green infrastructure to capture rainwater through natural methods before it can flood. New York is requiring climate risk assessments for new developments in vulnerable areas, as is restoring 127 acres of wetlands that serve as a natural storm barrier.
More examples and more links, if you're reslly interested.