Consider the changing characteristics of air masses. Climate change impacts not only temperature but also
humidity and contaminant concentrations, all of which can have significant health implications.
Discuss the concept of “ecosystem flips.” Adaptation does not address fundamental changes which can result
when a threshold is reached; the result may not be reversible.
Higher temperatures could lead to a more sedentary life style, which could have negative health impacts.
People might be putting too much hope in “the medical solution” as a means to address human health
concerns related to climate change. People believe that modern medicine can take care of everything. When
it comes to climate change, the medical community will not be able to provide for all who are impacted.
Make climate change more visible in the public eye. The public needs more information about current
climate change impacts. Provide data on the number of lives and dollars lost.
Develop a marketing strategy and education materials for a variety of groups. There is a need for a
variety of outreach efforts. The general public is probably best served by simple and concise messages that
emphasize the importance of addressing climate change and explain what people can do to help minimize
harmful effects. Win-win situations should be emphasized. For example, a slogan such as “Save energy, save
money, save the environment” might be effective. A separate marketing strategy should be developed for
decision makers; it would be useful to find a champion to advocate issues. For industry, emphasize business
opportunities that could be realized by developing environmentally friendly products.
Develop a sound strategic plan for the Great Lakes basin. Clearly define important questions, the defini-
tions to be used, the partnerships to be tapped into, and the philosophies and values to be adopted. In addition,
take the global picture into account and consider space and time scales.
Develop better economic evaluations and better predictive tools.
Municipal / Urban Breakout Group Report
John Carey, Facilitator
Use a worst-case scenario rather than a best-case scenario when examining the risks associated with
climate change. A 2 X CO scenario is not overly realistic.
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Provide urban managers with tools that integrate more robust spatial and temporal scales. Also provide
a better understanding of how climate change will affect the frequency and magnitude of extreme events, so that
they can analyze impacts beyond existing design thresholds. In turn, managers and users should provide input
for the development of design scenarios, to ensure that relevant issues are taken into account.
Urban infrastructure is typically in place for long time. Even if there is agreement that adaptation to climate
change is necessary, it could take decades to make infrastructure changes. Further, if a community has a poor
management system, improvements should be made now to avoid exacerbation of problems resulting from
climate change. A municipality’s response to climate change could affect the private sector’s willingness to
invest in municipal infrastructure.
Prioritize adaptation schemes based on their likelihood of success. Schemes that aim to protect human
health and property are more likely to succeed than those that aim to manage ecosystems. While ecosystems
should be monitored and efforts made to minimize human impacts on ecosystems, not much can actually be
done to manage them. Ecosystems manage themselves. It is unclear how realistic ecological restoration efforts
are.
Consider water temperature elevations in urban tributaries.
Include information on net effects, in addition to just a list of effects. This would help people understand
whether effects are additive or cancel each other out.
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