State Climatologist Speaks on Climate Change in Dallas

The Office of Environmental Quality in conjunction with the Dallas Bar Association Environmental Law Section hosted the North Texas Climate Change Symposium. Hot topics included climate resilience in urban planning and infrastructure, climate change and the local economy, and climate justice in relation to environmental justice.

Councilmember Sandy Greyson introduced the event outlining how Dallas has reduced its carbon footprint.  Steps included reducing 4 million tons of carbon emissions per year by using electricity from 100% renewable sources, using alternative fuels to power up to 60% of the City’s municipal fleet, and starting the process to achieving carbon neutrality accreditation for Love Field with the Airport Council International Carbon Accreditation program.

The event’s keynote speaker was Dr. John Nielsen-Gammon, State Climatologist and professor at Texas A&M University. Nielsen-Gammon noted that an increase in temperature means that tropical climates would spread farther north into Texas, potentially bringing in more tropical illnesses and invasive species during his presentation.

The full symposium can be viewed at www.facebook.com/GreenDallasTX/.  For information on climate change and how the City of Dallas is combatting its effects, please visit GreenDallas.net.