Climate Change Impacts in Texas

This book focuses on climate change impacts and adaptation in Texas, a vital economic and ecologically important region in the United States. Texas spans twelve distinct ecoregions and a GDP greater than that of many countries; however, it is the only large state in the United States that does not have an active climate action or adaptation plan. This book analyzes the ways in which every aspect of life in Texas could be affected by climate change and the severe risks posed to the future well-being of Texans. It discusses the effects of climate change on the natural environment, human-environmental systems, and a diversity of approaches used for climate adaptation and mitigation, whether intentional or not. Finally, this book provides a different perspective for both the climate enthusiast and the climate agnostic. FeaturesOffers a contemporary perspective on the changing climate in Texas and why it matters—especially with respect to impacts, points of vulnerability, and adaptation. Includes contributions from the state climatologist and disciplinary experts who have a solid understanding of the ecological, social, economic, and policy issues for Texas. Provides a perspective on the political and economic motivations of climate mitigation in Texas, or lack thereof. Discusses the multi-faceted and interconnected nature of impacts and links projected impacts to adaptation and mitigation needs. Extends the discussion of climate change to relate to the broader science of planetary limitations. This book serves as a foundational resource for graduate students, industry professionals, government officials, environmental practitioners, researchers, and academics dealing with climate change everywhere, not just in Texas, and gives readers a sense of urgency for changes that need to be made.