Page 25 - Strategic Plan

Program 3.
Climate and Environmental Stewardship
Current Situation
South Florida communities are vulnerable to short- term and long-term impacts of climate and envi- ronmental change. The short-term effects include changes in precipitation, erosion, saltwater intru- sion, and flooding. Long term, climate change, in- creased temperatures, and sea level rise can affect both natural resource and human environments. There is the need to develop tools that help south Florida cope with the changing climate to ensure long-term sustainability of the economy and envi- ronment.
Major Issues
• Despite climate change being one of the most pressing issues of our time, there is strong de- nial from some policy makers and the public.
• Communicating the results of scientific re- search to policy makers across all fields and en- gaging with diverse stakeholders is essential to foster community stewardship.
Broad Goals
• Increase knowledge of the current and poten- tial impacts of climate change/variability.
• Advance sustainable management practices that satisfy needs of stakeholders while also preserving environmental quality.
Outcomes
The outcome of research and outreach programs related to climate and environmental variability is increased public awareness of climate change pro- jections, and the risk and impact of climate change. Communities and industries will adopt policies that improve their resilience to climate change. Ecosys- tems and their services will be restored or protect- ed. Climate literacy will be improved.
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