To find effective solutions for the climate crisis, two simultaneous and complementary courses of action are needed. We must reduce atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide and other heat-trapping gases to reduce global warming, and we need to prepare for the societal impacts of whatever climate change is unavoidable.
The Wisconsin Initiative on Climate Change Impacts (WICCI) has traditionally focused on the latter activity, and its working groups have been the key components in those efforts. Working groups target a particular topic to identify vulnerabilities and impacts and then develop recommendations to foster solutions in the face of change.
Examples of potential solutions could include:
- Redesigning stormwater management systems to handle higher volumes of stormwater
- Planting species of trees better suited for longer, warmer growing seasons
- Planting vegetation to provide more shade for coldwater trout streams
- Developing emergency action plans to assist vulnerable populations during heat waves
Some adaptation efforts will be reactive, handling situations as they arise. But WICCI also strives to be proactive by anticipating impacts and mitigating the pace and intensity of climate change. Effective preparation can help save wildlife, property, money and even lives.