Solutions to help eliminate Climate Change are not simple. Since Connecticut’s sea levels are rising and land is sinking at a faster rate, solutions become complicated. In addition, there are many infrastructures and coastal properties that are also at risk and need help. With the help of community individuals, local, state and federal officials can work together to better protect the effects of climate change in different areas. For instance, to protect coastal communities, plans needs to be made to protect homes, communities, wildlife and wildlife habitats from flooding. In addition, after areas are impacted from flooding or natural disasters, it is important to rebuild strong so the same problems do not continue to occur or abandon them altogether. Forward thinking is also key to help with the impacts of climate change. For instance forward thinking building codes, evaluating coastal developments, are all ideas to help with the ongoing changes in Connecticut.
In addition, it is extremely important for changes to occur quickly in order to make change to our environment. Building seawalls to decrease flooding from tides and storms will also prevent extreme damage in certain areas. However, costs are extremely high to maintain seawalls. As sea level is rising, finding a solution to drain water is also important. Building storm pumps and upgrading sewage systems are some examples to help with the drainage of water. Another solution to help with sea level rise and the areas and wildlife habitats being affected is using the beach as barriers by building sand dunes.
Another solution for eliminating the effects of climate change is building a low carbon future for Connecticut. According to the governor’s Council on Climate Change from December 18, 2018, carbon dioxide represents the greatest warming potential due to its atmospheric abundance. Governor Malloy issued Executive Order No. 46 creating the governor’s Council on Climate Change, which includes, examining policies and regulations designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, establishing goals to achieve 8% reduction from these gas emission by a set goal of 2050. This including recommending policies and legislative actions to reach the 2050 goal, and monitor greenhouse emission levels yearly to determine whether or not the state is state is in line to meet its targeted goal.
To help establish a plan to meet the 2050 goals to decarbonize Connecticut’s economy the Council on Climate Change are focusing on three topics. These topics are a zero carbon electricity generation, clean transportation and a clean, efficient and resilient building plan. If effective, this will help Connecticut achieve a zero carbon future, which will help with the effects of Climate Change in our area. To establish a cleaner and greener way to effective power emission free electricity by creating more wind and solar infrastructures, which can be costly at first, will show significant changes in the long run.