Technical Support to State Agencies

The project collaborates with state agencies to build their capacity to integrate climate change into government programs and guiding policies. Efforts include supporting the Rhode Island Climate Change Commission, the state’s first legislative group focused on understanding climate change science and developing activities to support communities that are developing adaptive planning approaches to address climate change impacts. With the Rhode Island Statewide Planning Program (RISPP), the project is developing guidance for including climate change and hazards within Community Comprehensive Plans. Also, CRC is working with a network of agencies (RISPP, Rhode Island State Building Commission, the Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Council and the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency) to develop ways to reduce storm impacts and sea level rise through building practices. The program also supports state efforts by providing sea level rise mapping, science summaries and policy reviews.