Climate Change — Learn More
Why Early Adaptation Matters
Climate adaptation is the work of preparing communities, infrastructure, and natural systems for impacts that are already occurring or are expected to intensify.
1
Climate impacts are already occurring
Maine's climate is already warmer than it was historically, and the state is experiencing changes in heavy precipitation, heat, snowpack, coastal flooding, and ecosystem conditions.
2
Why timing matters
Adaptation projects often take years to plan, permit, finance, and build. Waiting until repeated damage occurs can leave communities with fewer options and higher repair costs.
- Long-lived infrastructure is built for decades of use.
- Trees and forests need years to mature.
- Wetlands and floodplains need space to function before disasters occur.
3
Planning for future conditions
Maine's Scientific and Technical Subcommittee is required to update climate science and sea-level projections so communities can plan using current evidence rather than historical conditions alone.