Washington a model for striving for climate resilience
By Adam Maxwell / For The Herald
Growing up in Florida, I could only imagine living amongst snowcapped mountains and vast, verdant landscapes. When I eventually moved to the Pacific Northwest as an adult, the beauty of the region far exceeded my expectations.
It wasn’t just the towering mountain ranges or the majestic waters of Puget Sound that captured my attention. It was also the commitment of the people and community leaders who live here to protect our natural world from overdevelopment and climate change. This stands in stark contrast to states like Florida, where recent governmental actions have doubled down on climate denialism, even as they face some of the most severe risks from sea level rise. Watching my home state ignore the clear and present danger of climate change fills me with immense sadness. But here in Washington, we have chosen a different path.
Last year, the Washington state Legislature enacted House Bill 1181 requiring local governments to integrate climate resilience into their comprehensive plans under the state’s Growth Management Act (GMA). Snohomish County is already ahead of the curve in incorporating climate change into its GMA updates, set to be completed by the end of the year. As we face rising sea levels and an increased risk of catastrophic weather events, getting robust plans in place is not only critical for human communities but also for the birds and other wildlife that share our environment.
Washington’s commitment to science-driven policy is evident in the requirements of HB 1181. By incorporating the best available science and robust spatial mapping and modeling into local comprehensive plans, we are preparing for the long-term health of our communities and ecosystems. This process isn’t just bureaucratic busywork; it’s a vital public engagement opportunity for citizens concerned about the impacts of climate change.
https://www.heraldnet.com/opinion/comment-washington-a-model-for-striving-for-climate-resilience/