Global Climate Change
Climate change refers to any significant change in measures of climate (such as temperature, precipitation, or wind) lasting for an extended period (decades or longer). It may result from natural factors or human activities like burning fossil fuels, such as coal and oil, or changes in land surfaces (e.g. deforestation, urbanization, etc.). Burning fossil fuels contributes to an increase in heat-trapping “greenhouse gases” in the atmosphere. These gases prevent heat from escaping to space much like a greenhouse that is used to grow plants. Some greenhouse gases are necessary because they keep the earth’s surface warm enough to support life. But as the atmospheric concentrations of these gases continue to increase, the earth’s temperature increases, which can contribute to changes in global climate patterns.
The DNR began working on climate change issues in the early 1990's and this work continues today. Below are links to more information about this important issue.
- Understanding Climate Change - Information and background on the science of climate change
- Wisconsin's Response - Learn what Wisconsin and the DNR are doing in response to climate change
- Reports and Documents - Wisconsin greenhouse gas inventories and other related work
- Other State Agencies - Other Wisconsin state agencies involved in climate change initiatives
- Federal - Updates on federal climate change policy efforts
Air Management || Special Topics
Next Review: May 2010
Last Revised: Wednesday November 04 2009
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