Just the consideration of a changing global climate is confusing and bewildering. What is happening? What will this world be like for our children and our children's children? Are we the cause of the problem or is our planet cycling through a natural process we know little to nothing about? To compound the confusion, the briefest of internet searches will return a dizzying amount of information, much of which appears contradictory.
There is little doubt that our planet is warming. According to the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) data, the Earth's average surface temperature has increased by about 1.2 to 1.4° Fahrenheit in the past 100 years. The eight warmest years on record since 1850 have all occurred in the past 10 years. Regardless of the cause, whether it be anthropogenic (human made) or a naturally occurring cycle, the warming of our planet has consequences for us all.
For those of us who call Florida home, the potential consequences, are particularly important. Being at a low elevation and surrounded by water, any rise in sea level will dramatically change the geography of our state (see graphic below). Not to mention effects to agriculture, industry, and our water supply. Governor Christ recognized Florida's vital stake in climate change when he created the Governor's Action Team on Energy and Climate Change (Executive Order 07-128). Below you will find some helpful links to important information about climate change and what is at stake for Florida.