ARS | Publication request: Global Climate Change Impacts in the United States

Submitted to: Cambridge University Press
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: October 3, 2009
Publication Date: January 15, 2010
Citation: Karl, T.A., Melillo, J., Peterson, T.C., Anderson, D.M., Boesch, D.F., Burkett, V., Carter, L.M., Grimm, N.B., Hatfield, J.L., Hayhoe, K., Janetos, A.C., Kaye, J.A., Lawrimore, J.H., Mccarthy, J.J., Mcquire, A.D., Miles, E.L., Mills, E., Patz, J.A., Pulwarty, R.S., Santer, B.D., Savonis, M.J., Schwartz Jr., H.G., Shea, E.L., Stone, J.M., Udall, B.H., Walsh, J.E., Wehner, M.F., Wilbanks, T.J., Wuebbles, D.J. 2010. Global Climate Change Impacts in the United States. New York: Cambridge University Press. 188 p.

Technical Abstract: Climate change impacts on the United States vary by region and sector of the economy. Responses to climate change fall into two major categories. Mitigation focuses on the reducing emissions of heat-trapping gases or increasing their uptake to reduce the amount and speed of climate change. Adaptation refers to changes made to better respond to present or future climate conditions in order to reduce harm or take advantage of opportunities. Both mitigation and adaptation are elements of a comprehensive response strategy. The changes that have been observed in the US climate include: temperature rise; sea-level rise; increase in heavy downpours; rapidly retreating glaciers; thawing permafrost; longer growing season; longer ice-free season; earlier snowmelt; and changes in river flows. Climate change will impact all sectors of the US and individuals and policymakers need to be aware of the changes and the potential consequences.