The Southwest and climate change

Authors: Elias, Emile; STEELE, CAITI - New Mexico State University

Submitted to: Applied Anthropology Newsletter
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 12/1/2023
Publication Date: 3/26/2024
Citation: Elias, E.H., Steele, C. 2024. The Southwest and climate change. Applied Anthropology Newsletter. Abstract.

Interpretive Summary: The Southwest Chapter of the Fifth National Climate Assessment highlights changes since the last National Climate Assessment. We present the 5 key messages of NCA5 and highlight some of the novel findings, including a focus on overburdened communities and extreme events.

Technical Abstract: This presentation will share findings from the Southwest chapter of the Fifth National Climate Assessment. It will discuss climate changes, impacts, and responses with a focus on changes in the water, agriculture, wildfire, and human health sectors. Although this chapter focuses on climate impacts, risks, and adaptation actions in the Southwest, it also recognizes efforts underway to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions throughout the region at multiple scales. Governments, nongovernmental organizations, and private enterprises are working to address these impacts through adaptation and mitigation efforts. Since NCA4 our region experienced the first water shortage declaration on the Colorado River, the causes and implications of which are featured in the chapter. The presentation may be of interest to local environmental or community-based organizations, land use and urban planners, and science educators.