Climate Facts Q&A
Why is Earth’s Climate changing?
Earth’s climate has always fluctuated based on ocean patterns, volcanic activity, changes in the Earth’s orbit, and variations in the Sun’s energy. Since the start of the industrial revolution in the late 1700s, the combustion of fossil fuels such as coal, gas, and oil have resulted in tremendous amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases (GHGs) accumulating in the atmosphere. GHGs create the natural greenhouse effect, which traps heat at the Earth’s surface and is essential for life. However, the sheer volume of GHGs that have been emitted in the last 200 years have dramatically enhanced the natural greenhouse effect. Today, global CO2 levels are higher than any time in the last 850,000 years.
What are 5 greenhouse gases that are causing climate change?
Carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, methane, chlorofluorocarbons, and water vapor
How is climate change affecting Rhode Island?
Rhode Island will continue to experience warmer air temperatures, including more record-breaking temperatures in all seasons. Since the start of the 20th century, average temperatures have risen over 4 degrees Fahrenheit. Winter temperatures are rising faster than summer temperatures, likely attributed to a warmer North Atlantic Ocean. Notably, Rhode Island’s three warmest winters have all occurred since 2000, while the three coldest winters all occurred before 1980. This trend is projected to continue throughout the Northeast U.S.
Has Sea Level changed?
Along Rhode Island’s 400 miles of coastline, sea levels are rising faster than the global average. InNewport, sea levels have risen 10” since 1930. Low-lying coastal areas along Narragansett Bay and Mount Hope Bay are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of sea level rise and saltwater inundation. As glaciers and ice sheets melt around the world in response to warmer temperatures, sea level rise will continue to impact Rhode Island’s coastlines. By 2100, sea levels along Rhode Island’s coastline are projected to rise another 12” – 48”. As coastal storms become stronger in response to warmer ocean temperatures, higher sea levels will result in more intensive erosion along barrier beaches and shorelines.
What is North Kingstown doing to address climate change?
Climate adaptation strategies were developed in partnership with the University of Rhode Island in 2015. The final report includes a range of strategies and actions.
The North Kingstown Comprehensive Plan includes action steps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (Climate mitigation) and prepare the town for climate change impacts (climate resilience). The North Kingstown Hazard Mitigation Plan also includes recommendations for preparing for increased storms and sea level rise.
T. Cranston Flooding North Kingstown
J. Bruckshaw Erosion
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