Secretary Rodriquez Commends Release of Third National Climate Assessment

For Immediate Release: May 6, 2014

Contact: Alex Barnum (916) 324-9670

SACRAMENTO – California Secretary for Environmental Protection Matt Rodriquez issued the following statement on the release of the third U.S. National Climate Assessment:

“We welcome today’s release of the third National Climate Assessment, which underscores the importance of taking action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and prepare our vulnerable communities for a changing climate.

In California and across the country, the impacts of climate change are already evident, whether it’s more intense drought, increasingly severe wildfire seasons or rising seas that threaten our heavily populated coastlands.

California has been a pioneer in developing cost-effective policies to cut carbon pollution and spur technological innovation in developing new, cleaner forms of energy. And our experience demonstrates that these policies not only protect public health and the environment, but are also a powerful means to drive economic growth.

While these efforts are essential to reducing the worst effects of climate change, some impacts are unavoidable. And this report provides valuable insights that will inform our efforts to prepare for climate risks and build more resilient communities.”

The third U.S. National Climate Assessment, released today by the Obama Administration, is the most comprehensive scientific assessment ever generated of climate change and its impacts across the United States. A team of more than 300 experts, guided by a 60-member National Climate Assessment and Development Advisory Committee, produced the full report.

The report draws from a large body of scientific peer-reviewed research, technical reports and other publicly available sources. It documents climate change related impacts and responses for various sectors and regions, with the goal of better informing public and private decision-making at all levels.

The report and its highlights is available here: http://nca2014.globalchange.gov/

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• California Air Resources Board • Department of Pesticide Regulation • Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle) • Department of Toxic Substances Control • Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment • State Water Resources Control Board • Regional Water Quality Control Boards

CalEPA, 1001 I Street, Sacramento, CA 95814 • P.O. Box 2815, Sacramento, CA 95812 • (916) 323-2514 www.calepa.ca.gov