NEW YORK CITY CLIMATE CHANGE

Climate change in...

By: Cade Cunningham

New YORK

START

index

1. How has climate change impacted New York City?

2. What is currently being done to help combat or remedy the situation?

3. Where else in the world is experiencing a similar form of climate change?

4. Sources

5. Thanks

How has climate change impacted New York City?

New York City has been significantly affected by climate change, particularly through rising sea levels, increased frequency of extreme weather events, and temperature changes. Coastal flooding, as seen during Hurricane Sandy in 2012, caused billions in damages, displaced thousands, and highlighted the city’s vulnerability to storm surges. Sea levels in the NYC area have risen by about 9 inches since 1900, exacerbating the risk of flooding in low-lying areas. Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense, endangering vulnerable populations like the elderly and those with health conditions. The city’s infrastructure, including subway systems and utilities, is increasingly stressed by these extreme conditions. Additionally, changing ecosystems threaten local wildlife, such as migratory birds in parks and wetlands.

What is currently being done to help combat or remedy the situation?

NYC has implemented multiple initiatives to address climate change impacts. The city’s "OneNYC" strategic plan outlines goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing coastal defenses, and investing in resilient infrastructure. Projects like the East Side Coastal Resiliency (ESCR) aim to protect neighborhoods from flooding through raised parklands and floodwalls. Additionally, NYC has committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, expanding renewable energy use, and retrofitting buildings to improve energy efficiency. Community programs educate residents about climate risks and promote sustainable practices like urban farming and green roofs.

Where else in the world is experiencing a similar form of climate change?

i. How does this affect the region around it?

ii. What effects does it have globally?

Venice, Italy, faces similar challenges with rising sea levels and flooding. Like NYC, Venice’s infrastructure, including historic buildings and canals, is under threat from high tides and storm surges. This also impacts local tourism and disrupts daily life.

Rising sea levels in coastal cities globally strain economies, requiring expensive mitigation efforts like flood defenses. Displaced populations from vulnerable coastal regions contribute to global migration challenges. Additionally, disruptions in major economic hubs like NYC and Venice could have ripple effects on international markets and supply chains.

Sources

New York City Mayor's Office of Resiliency. (2020). OneNYC 2050: Building a Strong and Fair City. Retrieved from https://onenyc.cityofnewyork.us/ Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). (2021). Climate Change 2021: The Physical Science Basis. Cambridge University Press.

thank you