by Brianna Crandall — December 6, 2010—Eight cities and counties have announced a new commitment to protecting their communities from unavoidable climate change impacts, by being the first to participate in Climate Resilient Communities (CRC), billed as the nation’s first comprehensive climate adaptation program for local governments and developed by ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability USA.
The following cities and counties (plus one development district) will receive cutting-edge online tools, technical support, and other resources from ICLEI to accelerate their efforts to prepare for climate impacts that already affect their regions: Boston, MA; Cambridge, MA; Flagstaff, AZ; Grand Rapids, MI; Lee County, FL; Miami-Dade County, FL; San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC); and Tucson, AZ.
The Climate Resilient Communities Program establishes the first standardized adaptation planning process for communities, says ICLEI. CRC provides local governments with a wealth of resources and trainings to undertake this process, including the advanced Adaptation and Database Planning Tool (ADAPT).
ADAPT walks users through the process of assessing community vulnerabilities, setting resiliency goals, and developing effective strategies that integrate into existing local planning efforts. These wide-ranging strategies may include strengthening infrastructure, diversifying water supplies, and planting more vegetation to counteract the urban heat island effect.
All of ICLEI USA’s 600 U.S. local government members will receive access to CRC resources, but the eight “Inaugural Adaptation Communities” will receive additional technical support.
