Florida to cut greenhouse gas emissions 80% by 2050

Florida to cut greenhouse gas emissions 80% by 2050
mongabay.com
July 15, 2007

Florida plans to cut greenhouse gas emissions 80 percent from 1990 levels by 2050 according to Charlie Crist, Florida's Republican state governor. Due to its low elevation and hurricane risk, global warming may pose the biggest risk to Florida of any U.S. state.

Governor Crist's announcement on Wednesday July 11th comes just two weeks after the New Jersey legislature passed legislation that will require the state to cut greenhouse gas emissions by an equivalent amount. Business leaders in the U.S. have also called for similar cuts, a step many scientists say is necessary to head off the worst effects of climate change.

The executive order calls for Florida to each 2000 emissions levels by 2017. Crist hopes to reach the target by switching to renewable energy technologies -- especially solar power, improving energy efficiency, and promoting fuel-sipping rather than gas-guzzling cars.

Rising sea levels are expected to cause havoc for much of low-lying Florida, especially during storm surges and hurricanes. While research is still inconclusive, some scientists believe that global warming could bring stronger and more frequent hurricanes to the Florida coast.

Rising seas would have dramatic effects on regions with low topography like Florida. The dark blue areas are less than 5 meters (16 feet) above sea level. Image credit: Shuttle Radar Topography Mission

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