Washington, DC – International humanitarian organization Oxfam America commended the White House today for announcing significant progress in its climate adaptation initiative, which brings to the fore the critical importance of resources for hard-hit communities in the United States and around the world to build resilience and adapt to the consequences of climate change.
“We commend the White House for releasing this progress report at a key moment in the climate debate. Climate change is already forcing vulnerable communities in poor countries to face unprecedented climate stress, including water scarcity and reduced food supplies. The poorest communities in the United States and around the world are often the most vulnerable to climate change and need support to build climate resilience. These communities have the knowledge and experience to craft their own innovative solutions, from early warning systems to coastal tree buffers, but they need support,” said Raymond C. Offenheiser, president of Oxfam America.
The Obama administration’s commitment to addressing climate adaptation and resilience is amply demonstrated by its wide-ranging engagement to develop effective strategies both domestically and internationally, involving more than 20 federal agencies. An effective and comprehensive response to climate change must address both the causes and the impacts of climate change. Even the most ambitious emissions reductions plans leave us with an increasingly variable and changed climate where livelihoods will depend on a range of resilience strategies – from better water supply management to new types of insurance.
“Reducing emissions is essential, but it won’t be enough. Even if the world stopped polluting today, we would still feel the effects of climate change for decades to come. And while all of us will be affected, those facing the most extreme risk are the poorest with the fewest resources to cope, despite contributing the least to the crisis,” said Offenheiser.
Tackling these challenges can also pay important dividends for global security and for our economy. Building resilience to climate impacts is essential to promoting stability in many already volatile regions of the world. For our economy, protecting vulnerable supply chains and bolstering investments in climate resilience technologies and services – from water technologies to coastal restoration – will be a boon for workers and businesses.
“We know proactive responses to climate impacts can yield enormous benefits for global security and for our economy. President Obama has already highlighted the importance of adaption by including funding in his FY 2011 budget proposal to begin fulfilling our international commitments and help spur global solutions to climate change.”
“We also look forward to working with the White House and Congress to ensure that climate change legislation supports meaningful resources and funding for adaptation for the most vulnerable communities that are on the front lines of climate change,” said Offenheiser.
