West Virginia Citizen’s Guide to Climate Change

From WV Rivers Coalition, WV Interfaith Power & Light, et al.

Written by West Virginians for West Virginians, September 2020

Climate change is one of the most challenging issues of our time. By addressing climate change we have an opportunity to build a stronger, cleaner, and more just economy. But it’s not just economics that justify taking action. We have a moral obligation to address climate change sooner rather than later for the sake of our children, their children, and generations still to come.

This guide is intended for people who are concerned about climate change and want more information. Its purpose is to provide factual, objective information on the science of why climate change is occurring; identify key impacts of climate change in West Virginia and across the globe; and outline some potential solutions.

The Guide relies heavily on scientific research from government agencies: the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the National Climate Assessment, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change as well as academic research on climate change. Our objective is to provide scientifically valid information on a subject that has been overly politicized.

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See also: Climate Change Indicators in the United States | About EPA’s Indicators, US EPA, May 2021

The Earth’s climate is changing. Temperatures are rising, snow and rainfall patterns are shifting, and more extreme climate events – like heavy rainstorms and record high temperatures – are already happening. Many of these observed changes are linked to the rising levels of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases in our atmosphere, caused by human activities.

EPA partners with more than 50 data contributors from various government agencies, academic institutions, and other organizations to compile a key set of indicators related to the causes and effects of climate change. These indicators also provide important input to the National Climate Assessment and other efforts to understand and track the science and impacts of climate change. Learn more about EPA’s indicators.