Study: Global warming is bad for Florida

Boca Raton, Fla. -- Two university studies find global warming will have significant economic impacts on Florida's coasts

Florida State University researchers say climate change will cause significant impacts on Florida's coastlines and economy due to increased sea level rise and hurricane storm surge. The second study, by Florida Atlantic University, recommends the state adopt a series of programs aimed at adapting to the impacts caused by global warming.

"The impacts of climate change on Florida's coasts and on our economy will be substantial, persistent and long-term, even under our conservative estimates," said Julie Harrington, director of Florida State University's Center for Economic Forecasting and Analysis. "Should, as many models predict, sea level rise, and hurricane strength and other factors become more extreme, much greater economic impacts will occur along many parts of Florida's coast in this century."

The second study by Florida Atlantic University scientists focused on state adaptation policies needed as Florida faces the impacts of climate change.

"The goal of our study is to help the state of Florida adapt … to climate change impacts that are now inevitable," said Jim Murley, director of Florida Atlantic University's Center for Urban and Environmental Solutions. "These approaches must be comprehensive and strategic, not piecemeal and episodic."

Copyright 2008 by United Press International.