Climate ChangeClimate Change may seem at first glance to be a boon to Minnesota: What's wrong with the temperature staying a few degrees warmer, especially during a February cold snap? Indeed, we have determined that human activities are major contributors to the warming global climate, primarily through our emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gasses. But what should motivate Minnesotans to act in favor of keeping our climate the way it is?
In addition to the much-touted melting of polar ice caps which will cause flooding of coastal areas, climate change will also cause disruptions in landlocked areas such as the Upper Midwest. Warmer temperatures and unpredictable weather patterns will affect our agriculture and our forests - mainstays of Minnesota economy and quality of life. As the changing climate opens up opportunities for new pests to move in where they previously could not before, forests will be stressed and unforeseen diseases in animals and humans may come on the scene. Prairie and forest plants, pollinators, migrating birds, fish, and mammals will also be affected in unpredictable ways. Coal-burning power plants and fossil-fuel-burning vehicles are the largest sources of carbon dioxide pollution in the United States. These two areas are the focus of many City initiatives. See related indicators under Renewable Energy, Downtown Transportation Alternatives, Tree Canopy, Bike Lanes and Air Quality. Learn MoreTake ActionReports |
