Waterworld: Old Movie Turned New Reality

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

• Practical examples of how communities on each coast of the continental United States are approaching the complex challenge of planning for climate change and other coastal hazards
• Three fundamental responses to sea-level rise and recurring coastal flood hazards, and the advantages/disadvantages of each
• How coastal-hazard mitigation and climate-adaptation strategies can be integrated effectively into existing planning and community-development processes

MORE SESSION DETAILS

Disaster-risk reduction and community resilience to climate change and extreme weather have become some of the most pressing challenges of the 21st century. Coastal communities are literally and figuratively on the front lines of this battle with nature. Many are already being impacted, and nearly all are facing increasing and compounding threats to their long-term sustainability, such as sea-level rise and recurrent flooding, increased storm intensity, shoreline erosion, and wetland loss. In response, many are planning and building their long-term resilience to these changing future conditions. This interactive session includes panelists representing each of the four coasts of the continental United States (East, West, Gulf, and Great Lakes). They will share unique perspectives, experiences, and lessons learned in planning for coastal-hazard resilience and generate spontaneous interaction among panelists and the audience. Learn about the challenges and successes occurring on each coast and gain insights from experts with a combined 100 years of coastal=hazards experience. Diverse perspectives and specific examples from very different geographic regions and communities will be shared.