Nov 19 2008

Fighting Climate Change, Readying California

Posted by: Katie Romans

The Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC) yesterday released a new report on California's readiness to deal with the impact of climate change.

Moving quickly from studies on how to address and help slow the effects of climate change, to actually preparing ourselves against those effects, it feels like we are now staring climate change square in the face -- a chilling thought.

The report examines California's readiness to face the challenges presented by climate change in six particularly vulnerable areas -- water resources, electricity, coastal resources, air quality, public health and ecosystem resources. According to the study, many aspects of the state's society, economy and natural environment are vulnerable to the impact of climate change.

The PPIC report finds that institutions such as power utilities have a significant role investing in and managing those resources that can help potentially vulnerable populations adapt (e.g. tools for staying cool and hydrated). Since the 2001 energy crisis, utilities have worked to improve reliability, reduce load during peak periods and add renewables. As California's population and sea level continue to rise, such measures will only become more important.

In order to face these challenges head on, the PPIC recommends that California policymakers implement policies that seek to both slow climate change and protect against its effects at the same time. PG&E will continue our work alongside these policymakers and others to help fight climate change -- and help the state mitigate its effects.

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