Climate change is on the minds of several state lawmakers and local politicians who participated in rallies Wednesday supporting efforts to curb the effects of climate change.
The Rehoboth Beach boardwalk hosted the kick-off event Wednesday morning, featuring high-ranking state climate officials and Speaker of the House Pete Schwartzkopf (D-Rehoboth Beach).
Schwartzkopf says the effects of a shifting climate are obvious, especially when you look at Delaware’s delayed seasons.
“I’m worried. Frankly, I’m worried about the shift in the climates that we have. I think that our climates have rotated about a month clockwise. Our falls go later into the year, our summers go later into the fall now,” said Schwartzkopf.
Schwartzkopf adds the emphasis at this time needs to be on educating the public.
“The big issue right now is that the people need to understand it. They need to be aware of it," said Schwartzkopf "I mean, we’re not talking about the sea flooding Rehoboth next week. We’re not talking about that. We’re talking about our children’s and our grandchildren’s future.”
A DNREC report issued last September indicated the working projection for sea level rise in Delaware is just over 3 feet by 2100, which would inundate 8 to 11 percent of the state’s current land mass. The agency is currently shaping its plan to adapt to climate change after hosting multiple public hearings earlier this year. That adaptation plan is scheduled to land on DNREC Secretary Collin O’Mara’s desk in mid-August.
In June, President Obama unveiled his plan addressing climate change. It aims to reduce carbon emissions and increase the development and use of renewable energy sources.
Another event was with additional lawmakers and state officials was held in Wilmington Wednesday afternoon.
