Climate in Crisis: Turning Challenges into Opportunities

This past winter, residents in Salisbury, Massachusetts faced a devastating blow when the ocean claimed a $600,000 investment in just one day. These substantial losses, compounded by national disasters, have forced industries to raise prices and withdraw from certain markets, rendering it prohibitively expensive to insure homes or cars. Shockingly, despite witnessing the imminent collapse of a neighbor’s house, one resident expressed disbelief that sea-level rise, a consequence of climate change, poses a threat to property protection.

Figure 1. Photo at Salisbury Beach, Salisbury, Massachusetts by NBC10 Boston.

The politicization of science and scientists has exacerbated this issue, causing division and skepticism. Some may even unsubscribe from this blog merely for broaching the topic. However, the evidence of climate change is irrefutable. From the increasingly frequent and severe storms in southern states to the NOAA’s prediction of an above-normal hurricane season, increasing prevalence of severe airline turbulence, the global boiling of coral reefs, and the impact of severe winter storms in my own town, the signs are clear.

Figure 2. View of Rye Harbor, Rye, NH

During a recent visit to the Boston Public Library, I explored an exhibit showcasing the history of…