Climate Change

Coastal Resilience

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

Ecosystems are resilient and adaptive, but the climate is changing at a rate that makes it difficult for plant and animal species to keep up. Many species of birds and other animals are being forced out of their habitat ranges and, in the long-term, face extinction. 

What affects our ecosystems also affects our communities. Sea-level rise, hurricanes, and higher air temperatures all have serious consequences for people, their homes, and the economy.

The good news is we have solutions. Audubon Florida is working to reduce the state’s carbon footprint and save taxpayer dollars by improving energy efficiency, helping make our coastal areas more resilient, and inspiring citizens to work with their elected officials to expand renewable energy sources.

  1. Protecting and Restoring Natural Resources: By protecting existing wetlands and green spaces and restoring others, we can have cleaner water and air, preserve homes for birds, protect against sea-level rise and storm surge, sequester carbon, absorb floodwaters, and provide relief in urban heat islands. Find more about natural climate solutions.
  2. Reducing Greenhouse Gases (GHGs): By reducing the heat-trapping gases in the atmosphere, we give birds, and ourselves, more time to adapt to the climate impacts already coming down the pipeline and prevent more severe impacts. Audubon recently helped East Florida municipalities tackle Greenhouse Gas inventories.
  3. Increasing Energy Efficiency: By conserving energy and water in our homes, businesses, and communities, we can reduce GHGs emitted by energy production and create savings by lowering energy and water bills. Learn more about solar energy sites. 

Read through our complete climate priorities in the Audubon Florida Conservation Action Agenda

Much of the progress at local levels is driven by individual Floridians. Protect the birds that we love by learning more about our climate advocacy work.

Florida Climate Change Advocacy
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Florida Climate Change Messenger

Make sure the local government response to sea level rise helps Florida's coastal wildlife.

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America’s Bird Species Threatened by Global Warming ‘Gut Punch,’ New Audubon Study Reveals
Press Center

America’s Bird Species Threatened by Global Warming ‘Gut Punch,’ New Audubon Study Reveals

Florida’s habitats are projected to be a climate stronghold for the continent’s birds

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News & Updates

Leading the Clean Energy Expansion in Florida
Climate

Leading the Clean Energy Expansion in Florida

Audubon workshop at the Florida Resilience Conference highlights statewide efforts to reduce GHG emissions.

Innovative Natural Solution Improves Resilience in Northeast Florida
Climate

Innovative Natural Solution Improves Resilience in Northeast Florida

The Shuck & Share program provides many benefits for local communities.

Meeting the Challenges of Climate Change Isn’t Just for the Birds
Climate

Meeting the Challenges of Climate Change Isn’t Just for the Birds

Small businesses and entrepreneurs are creating jobs while improving the resilience of local communities and beyond.

Conversation

Audubon’s Write for Climate Program Primes Pen of Next Generation

Letters to the Editor and op-eds give a voice to college students across Florida.

Working to Reduce Emissions for Birds and All Floridians
Climate

Working to Reduce Emissions for Birds and All Floridians

Establishing baselines provides critical information to local governments as they seek to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.

Audubon Florida Launches Climate Entrepreneurs Panel Series
Climate

Audubon Florida Launches Climate Entrepreneurs Panel Series

Florida entrepreneurs to discuss ways how they are rising to the challenge on July 26.

Critical Emissions Baselines Will Help Tackle Climate Change in Tampa Bay Region
Climate

Critical Emissions Baselines Will Help Tackle Climate Change in Tampa Bay Region

Partnership included ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability, Pinellas County UF/IFAS Extension, and the University of South Florida.

How you can help, right now