Ecology Priorities > Facing Climate Change > What we're doing about it

What we're doing about it

With a two-pronged approach, Washington State is a leader in dealing with climate change. People all across the state are working to:

1. Reduce contributions to climate change, such as greenhouse gas emissions, and
2. Prepare for and adapt to changes we can’t prevent.

To do that, we need to understand the scientific facts of climate change and the risks we need to anticipate; who and what will be affected. We’ll have to think and act differently. Most planning conducted by people, businesses and governments was based on the climate of the past. New plans will have to consider climate change. and its effects on:

• Built systems—roads utilities, buildings, seawalls, water supply and treatment
• Human/social systems—businesses, emergency response, healthcare
• Natural systems—plants, pests, animals, people, rivers, fires, forests, crops
• Washington neighbors and trading partners
• Our economy and future economic opportunities
• Current and future generations

We already see effects of climate change in Washington state and much is already happening to address it. We are taking action with plans, research, initiatives and innovation. There are many concerns and challenges, but there are opportunities, too, to create a stronger, more flexible green economy and a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable Washington.

Click the links below to learn more:

EFFECTS - How will climate change affect Washington?

ACTIONS - What is Washington state doing about climate change?