Thursday October 2, 2008
Climate Change Strategy to Help Manage Water
Resources
Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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Washington, DC – To assist in responding to potential effects of
climate change, a new strategy focuses on 40 specific actions for the
national water program to take to respond to climate change. EPA's
"National Water Program Strategy: Response to Climate Change" describes
steps for managers to adapt their clean water, drinking water, and ocean
protection programs.
"Water is key to clean energy and climate change," said Benjamin H. Grumbles, EPA's assistant administrator for water. "Our water and climate strategy charts a course for timely and practical action, connecting the dots, drops, and watts for coordinated, sustainable results." EPA water programs are already taking action related to climate change including the WaterSense water efficiency program, green infrastructure for wet weather management, Climate Ready Estuaries, and the proposed national rule for the injection of carbon dioxide underground. The water strategy identifies specific response actions in five areas:
Potential impacts of climate change on water resources reviewed in the strategy include increases in certain water pollution problems, changes in availability of drinking water supplies, and collective impacts on coastal areas. The strategy reflects input provided during a public comment period earlier this year. EPA has been working with other federal agencies to coordinate work on climate change and water. Recently, EPA issued a joint memorandum with the U.S. Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Defense, and Interior to describe cooperative efforts on climate change and water issues. Information on the strategy: http://www.epa.gov/water/climatechange Contact: |