Southeast Alaska is experiencing dramatic changes in the environment due to heavier rains, changing snowfall patterns, warmer waters, and ocean acidification.
A team of educators, scientists, and community leaders are looking at the implications of these changes in Alaska for the National Climate Assessment. They are inviting Alaskans to submit feedback on the draft assessment until January 27th.
Alyssa Quintyne is a community organizer at the Alaska Center. She was also one of the co-authors for the Alaska chapter.
“It’s an occasion for us regular-degular to essentially tell the tale of what is happening within our state to other states, and to Congress. She said that it was a big deal.
The U.S. has created the National Climate Assessment, a research report that is mandated by Congress. Global Change Research Program. Quintyne states that although it doesn’t require specific actions, Quintyne believes it will guide those working on climate solutions.
“Lawmakers are looking at this assessment, and wondering, “Oh, wow! That was happening in mine seat!” What actions could I take? Researchers who claim that there is a gap in something they aren’t studying.
Henry Huntington, Ocean Conservancy researcher and lead author of the report, stated that this assessment is more focused on humans than ever.
“Our assignment, our charge, has been slightly altered to be more focused on the society side. What does this mean? He said that this is more important for Alaskans than getting into the details about the biophysical system.
The draft will be subject to peer review. Researchers will assist in refining and adding to the climate assessment. Huntington however says that he hopes more Alaskans will provide feedback.
“What the academic review cannot do is tell us if we are making sense. That’s what the public comment can do. He said, “Are we reaching a wider audience?” “We would like this report to have some relevance and speak to people it affects through their livelihoods, their recreation, or their interests.”
Huntington states that the draft chapter goes beyond the natural environment and includes discussions on COVID-19 housing discrimination, healthcare, crisis management, and even internet access.
He believes it is important to bring attention to these topics, as climate change does not happen in isolation. He hopes the assessment will reveal how climate change could worsen existing inequality and social vulnerability.
“It’s the idea that climate change is occurring within the larger social context that’s already in place. He said that it would add to the stress we already feel.
Quintyne hopes the comments this month will make the climate assessment a more useful resource.
She stated, “We’re doing this for education, awareness, and empowerment.” “So people can make informed decisions moving forward, regardless of whether they are someone like me or a president or a Yukon fisherman.
Alaskans can submit comments online if they wish to read the draft. Comments must be submitted by January 27th at 8 p.m.
