Rhode Island Sea Grant

Climate Change in Rhode Island

The evidence is so overwhelming that the scientific community is in consensus that the climate is indeed changing. Climate change is affecting temperatures, the length and timing of seasons, the amount of rain and snow that falls annually, sea level, and ocean chemistry. Many of these changes have negative consequences for people and the environment, and individuals and communities should work to reduce their risks from today's climate hazards and tomorrow's effects of climate change. Ecologically, economically, and culturally, Rhode Island faces challenges from climate change that are specific to the coastal landscape.

Publications

Ocean Special Area Management Plan Chapter 3: Global Climate Change		Climate Change in Rhode Island "What's Happening & What You Can do" A 4-page overview of the issues and options relevant to Rhode Islander		NEW Climate Change & Rhode Island's Coasts: A synthesis of the current science of climate change dynamics

In the News

Members of the URI Climate Change Collaborative were featured on Channel 12 in March 2012, speaking about the impacts of climate change and sea level rise in Rhode Island. Virginia Lee of the Coastal Resources Center and Jon Boothroyd, URI geosciences research professor emeritus, discuss what communities around the coast can expect to see in coming years. Check out the video below:

 

RI's waters encroaching on land: wpri.com

 

Symposia

November 18, 2011
Climate Change and Coastal Adaptation in Rhode Island Symposium
Experts presented current research findings on climate change science, behavior change theory, and communication. Following these presentations, participants formed working groups to discuss the impacts of climate change on their sector, what is at risk, and what adaptation actions are practical in each of four key areas: 1) public works and infrastructure, 2) marine trades and recreation, 3) coastal habitat conservation and 4) residential and commercial building. You may view the presentations as videos (YouTube) or PowerPoints (slideshare) through links in this pdf.

May 5, 2011
URI Climate Change Science Symposium
URI researchers shared current research on issues related to climate change and its implications to Rhode Island and the region. Click here for a list of presentations.