Adaptation

Green Roof at CSUIn addition to taking action to mitigate the region's greenhouse gas emissions, we need to take action to adapt to and prepare for the changes that are already occurring and "in the pipeline".

Observed and projected impacts of climate change in the Midwest and Northeast Ohio include higher temperatures and more intense heat waves, more intense and frequent storms, and lower lake levels. 

Many adaption activities have multiple benefits, both adaptive and mitigative. For example, green roofs are an adaptive strategy in that they help absorb rainwater and prevent flooding that is already being observed as a result of more severe and frequent storms. And they are mitigative since they help to insulate the building and reduce its energy use. 

The pages linked below provide a number of adaptation strategies for you to consider for your city and community's action plan.