What’s Happening
A bipartisan coalition of lawmakers, led by Senators Coons (D-DE) and Murkowski (R-AK) in the Senate and Representatives Peters (D-CA) and Salazar (R-FL) in the House, have introduced the National Climate Adaptation and Resilience Strategy Act.
This legislation would require the federal government to develop a climate adaptation plan through the creation of a Chief Resilience Officer and other mechanisms. The legislation has already been endorsed by the The Nature Conservancy, Pew Research Center, and the Atlantic Council.
Why It Matters
Climate efforts typically focus on mitigation (i.e. reducing emissions), which is critical but only one part of the equation. By focusing on adapting to the effects of climate change we are already experiencing, this legislation bolsters our national climate strategy and prioritizes communities on the frontlines of climate change.
My Take
The National Climate Adaptation and Resilience Strategy Act is a great example of the common ground that exists on climate. Mitigation will continue to be very important, but we cannot ignore the importance of adaptation.
Adaptation, including natural resilience efforts such as coastal restoration, is important economically as well as for human life. In 2021, the United States alone experienced 20 natural disasters resulting in more than one billion dollars in damages, and at least 600 Americans lost their lives, a record number.
We must prioritize taking steps to reduce future loss of life and property, and this legislation is an encouraging first step. Further adaptation policies should also be considered and put into action.
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