Climate Change
Climate is an average of weather over a period of time. Climate change can result when greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane increase in our atmosphere and trap infrared radiation. As greenhouse gases continue to increase, scientists are predicting that climatic changes will increase as well. Climate change is among the top environmental challenges facing today’s society, impacting aquatic and land ecosystems. It poses threats to human lives, environments, and economies too. IISG will help communities and individuals as they seek to mitigate and adapt for climate change.
News
- New buoy offers real-time Lake MIchigan data in Indiana
- The HELM: Forecasting the fate of Lake Michigan storms
- Workshop: How can Great Lakes communities adapt to climate change?
Initiatives
Water Rates
Because conservation pricing is among the most effective best management practices, the Northeast Illinois Regional Water Supply Planning Group recommends that communities and utilities review water rate schedules and potential modifications of rate structures to encourage water conservation.
Purdue Calumet Course
This course provides students an understanding of the patterns and processes of the past that pose consequences for the future in terms of climate change.
Research Projects
Pilot field observations of Lake Michigan atmospheric boundary layers
David Kristovich, Illinois State Water Survey
Quantifying the Impact of land cover change and of climate change on floods in northeastern Illinois
Momcilo Markus, Illinois State Water Survey
Simulating the implications of recreational disturbance on Karner blue butterflies (Lycaeides melissa samuelis) at the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore
Patrick Zollner, Purdue University
Products
Sustainable Land Use Impact on Climate Change and Health
Climate Change: Are you preparing for it?
Climate Change: How you will manage stormwater runoff?
Climate Change: Where does it fit in your future plans?
Climate Change: How will you manage your water resources?
Web Links
Chicago Climate Action Plan
Illinois Climate Change Report
NOAA Climate Services
NOAA - Adapting to Climate Change: A Planning Guide for State Coastal Managers
U.S. EPA Climate Change in the Great Lakes
U.S. EPA Climate Change
U.S. EPA Climate Change Kid's Site
