Emergency management in a changing climate

Robert O. Schneider, PhD

doi:10.5055/jem.2019.0441

Authors

Robert O. Schneider, PhD

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5055/jem.2019.0441

Keywords:

climate, adaptation, mitigation, extreme weather

Abstract

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has removed the words “climate change” from its 2018- 2022 strategic plan. The new plan does not mention climate, global warming, sea-level rise, extreme weather, or any other terminology associated with scientific projections of rising surface temperatures and their effects. Yet, as a direct result of climate change, it can be demonstrated that overall weather patterns have changed and extreme weather has become more common. This essay, based on what peer-reviewed climate science has already clearly demonstrated, makes the case that climate change is a critical variable for emergency managers to factor into their work. As such, it seeks to answer two basic questions. Why is climate change a growing concern for emergency managers? Exactly what should they do about it?

Author Biography

Robert O. Schneider, PhD

Professor, Department of Public Administration, University of North Carolina at Pembroke, Pembroke, North Carolina

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