Contact: Sean Cooley, Communications Manager, 850-999-1030, scooley@audubon.org 

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (June 1, 2017) – Reacting to President Trump’s announcement on removing the U.S. from the Paris Climate Agreement today, Eric Draper, executive director of Audubon Florida, said, “Florida is already suffering from climate change – we see it on the coasts and in droughts. The smart move is to stick with the climate accord. But we, as individuals, must take action to reduce carbon emissions.”
 
Floridians can still take steps on their own to combat climate change. Keep an agreement with yourself and follow these tips to reduce your carbon footprint:

1. Commit to Solar – Utilities across the state are offering solar programs where customers can take advantage of clean, renewable solar energy. You can also install rooftop solar on your home or business. (“A friend just told me he signed up for 100% solar from the City of Tallahassee,” said Draper.)
2. Green Your Commute – Reduce your transportation pollution by purchasing fuel-efficient cars, carpooling, and biking or walking to your destination. Ride sharing apps even offer an option to share rides and save both money and emissions!
3. Grow Bird-Friendly Plants at Home – Native plants can reduce hefty irrigation bills and reduce your water and energy consumption. Check out Audubon’s Native Plant Database to learn more about native plants for your area!
4. Reduce Home Energy Use – Install energy-efficient lightbulbs, check your house for leaks, and ask your utility company for a free energy audit. 
5. Get Involved and Informed – The biggest threat to birds is climate change. Join Audubon’s action network and add your voice to Florida’s most effective conservation organization.

Birds and people depend on Florida’s important ecosystems and precious natural resources. By keeping a personal agreement to reduce their carbon footprint, Floridians can make a meaningful difference for the wildlife and places that make Florida special. 
 
In 2014, Audubon scientists published the Birds and Climate Change Report, which describes how climatic suitability for 314 species of North American birds are shifting and shrinking to the point where these species may disappear from their current ranges by 2080. Species include our national symbol, the Bald Eagle, and Florida favorite birds like the Roseate Spoonbill and Brown Pelican. Ignoring climate change will push many of the birds Floridians know and love to extinction.
 
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