Abstract

The “Florida’s Resilient Coasts: A State Policy Framework for Adaptation to Climate Change” was completed under the leadership of Dr. James Murley, CUES, along with the College of Architecture, Urban and Public Affairs, Florida Altalntic University, and the National Commission on Energy Policy. It was developed due to the state’s lead climate change and the realization that Florida is extremely vulnerable to climate change impacts, especially sea level rise, extreme weathers, severe droughts, and periods of extreme rainfall events. Since 2007, Florida has been in the forefront of climate change with the Florida’s Governor’s Crist commitment to reduce greenhouse gases and develop mitigation and adaptation priorities for the State through the Florida Action Team on Energy and Climate Change and the recognition of climate change adaptation needs through the state’s Century Commission and the Florida Energy Commission. This report represents a framework for Florida to develop climate change adaptation policy by providing assistance in assessing coastal impacts and recommending policies that will help communities adapt to these impacts.