California state government and many local agencies put a premium on reducing greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change. But recent developments underscore the parallel emphasis on adapting to the effects of global warming — from advances in sea-level rise strategies to stretching water supplies to thinning forests at high risk for wildfire. The scientific consensus that global warming is an existential threat is facing renewed challenge, especially with skeptic-in-chief Donald Trump taking up residence in the White House again next month. Regardless of what one thinks about climate change, it’s a fact that the seas are rising, wildfires are more intense and drought-afflicted water supplies are shrinking. Like efforts to slow or reverse climate change, projects to adapt to it aren’t cheap. But in many cases, not making the investments can be more expensive.
—Written by Michael Smolens, columnist for The San Diego Union-Tribune

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