ENVIRON 157 Lecture Notes - Lecture 9: Interrupt, Hurricane Sandy, Adaptive Capacity
Document Summary
Adaptation is the adjustments that society or ecosystems make to limit the negative effects of climate change. Adaptation can include taking advantage of opportunities that a changing climate provides. Adaptation can include actions by individuals and communities, from a farmer planting more drought-resistant crops to a city ensuring that new coastal infrastructure can accommodate future sea level rise. Many governments and organizations in the world have already begun taking action to adapt to climate change. Together, adaptation coupled with actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions are both needed to address projected climate change. Many jurisdictions publish guidance to help individuals take actions to reduce the risks from natural hazards. For example, the city of chicago suggests residents in flood-prone areas take the following actions before a flood: avoid building in a floodplain unless you elevate and reinforce your home. Elevate the furnace, water heater, and electric panel if susceptible to flooding.
