http://worldcat.org/entity/work/id/343715827

Climate change adaptation strategic federal planning could help government officials make more informed decisions : report to the Chairman, Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming, House of Representatives

Changes in the climate attributable to increased concentrations of greenhouse gases may have significant impacts in the United States and the world. For example, climate change could threaten coastal areas with rising sea levels. Greenhouse gases already in the atmosphere will continue altering the climate system into the future, regardless of emissions control efforts. Therefore, adaptation, defined as adjustments to natural or human systems in response to actual or expected climate change, is an important part of the response to climate change. GAO was asked to examine (1) what actions federal, state, local, and international authorities are taking to adapt to a changing climate; (2) the challenges that federal, state, and local officials face in their efforts to adapt; and (3) actions that Congress and federal agencies could take to help address these challenges. We also discuss our prior work on similarly complex, interdisciplinary issues. This report is based on analysis of studies, site visits to areas pursuing adaptation efforts, and responses to a Web-based questionnaire sent to federal, state, and local officials. GAO recommends that within the Executive Office of the President the appropriate entities, such as the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ), develop a national adaptation plan that includes setting priorities for federal, state, and local agencies.

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