Preparing for a Sea Change in Florida: A Strategy to Cope with the Impacts of Global Warming on the State's Coastal and Marine Systems

This report by the Florida Coastal and Ocean Coalition details how climate change could impact the state's coastal areas, and broadly outlines possible adaptation solutions. It is intended to provide guidelines for concrete, science-based action on the critical issues Florida faces in light of climate change and to stimulate informed debate for the preservation of Florida's natural resources.

Four primary categories of impacts are discussed: sea-level rise, extreme weather events, higher ocean temperatures, and ocean acidification. The potential effects of sea-level rise are fully described, including beach erosion, saltwater intrusion, and the submersion of marshes and coastal property. Discussions of extreme weather events include severity, altering water flows, exacerbating runoff, and damaging coastal habitats.

For each of the four impact areas, recommendations are outlined for state and local government responses, including specific agency actions, as well as regional and federal responses.

The Florida Coastal and Ocean Coalition is a group of environmental organizations working together to conserve, protect and restore Florida’s coastal and marine environment. The member organizations include: Caribbean Conservation Corporation, Environmental Defense Fund, Gulf Restoration Network, Natural Resources Defense Council, National Wildlife Federation, Ocean Conservancy, Reef Relief, and the Surfrider Foundation.

Publication Date: 2008

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  • Assessment

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