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Climate Change Impacts

Communicating Vulnerabilities to Climate Change: Existing Health Conditions

EPA has developed communication materials that summarize key points from the U.S. Climate and Health Assessment on eight different populations that are disproportionately affected by climate change impacts. The agency is providing these materials for use and modification for anyone seeking to communicate the health impacts of climate change to a range of audiences.

How to Use these Materials and Summary Points: Existing Health Conditions (.docx)(7 pp, 1 MB)

Customizable Powerpoint Presentation: Existing Health Conditions (.ppt)(10 pp, 2 MB)

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See the People with Existing Health Conditions factsheets below. See communications materials for other populations of concern. For questions or assistance, please email climatehealth@epa.gov.

      Climate Change and the Health of People with Existing Medical Conditions (PDF)(2 pp, 1 MB)

      El Cambio Climático y la Salud de las Personas con Trastornos Crónicos (PDF)(4 pp, 1 MB)

      Printable (11"x17") Version: Climate Change and the Health of People with Existing Medical Conditions (PDF)(2 pp, 2 MB)

Climate Change Impacts

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Climate Change Impacts

Climate Impacts on Transportation

On This Page:

Overview

Land-Based Transportation

Air Transportation

Marine Transportation

Key Points

Climate change is likely to damage transportation infrastructure through higher temperatures, more severe storms and flooding, and higher storm surges, affecting the reliability and capacity of transportation systems.

Coastal roads, railways, ports, tunnels, and airports are vulnerable to sea level rise, which could lead to delays as well as temporary and permanent closures.

Climate change impacts will likely increase the cost of the nationâ€™s transportation systems.

	Â

Related Links

EPA:

Transportation and Climate

Smart Growth

Other:

DOT: Transportation and Climate Change Clearinghouse

FHA: Highways and Climate Change

NAS: Transportation Research BoardÂ Exit

USGCRP: Climate Change and TransportationÂ - Gulf Coast Study

IPCC: Fifth Assessment ReportÂ Exit

NRC: Potential Impacts of Climate Change on U.S. TransportationÂ Exit

Overview

In the United States, transportation systems are designed to withstand local weather and climate. Transportation engineers typically refer to historical records of climate, especially extreme weather events, when designing transportation systems. For example, bridges are often designed to withstand storms that have a probability of occurring only once or twice every 100 years.[1] However, due to climate change, historical climate is no longer a reliable predictor of future risk.

Climate change is projected to increase the frequency and intensity of some extreme weather events. Specifically, heat waves will likely be more severe, sea level rise could amplify storm surges in coastal areas, and precipitation will likely be more intense.[2] These changes could increase the risk of delays, disruptions, damage, and failure across our land-based, air, and marine transportation systems. Most transportation infrastructure being built now is expected to last for 50 years or longer.[1] Therefore, it is important to understand how future climate might affect these investments in the coming decades.

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Impacts on Land-Based Transportation

Climate changes will likely impact roadways, ice roads, vehicles, and railways.

Impacts on Roadways

Higher temperatures can cause pavement to soften and expand. This can create rutting and potholes, particularly in high-traffic areas and can place stress on bridge joints. Heat waves can also limit construction activities, particularly in areas with high humidity. With these changes, it could become more costly to build and maintain roads and highways. On the other hand, certain areas may experience cost savings and improved mobility from reduced snowfall and less-frequent winter storms since warmer winters may lead to reductions in snow and ice removal, as well as salting requirements.[1][2]

Climate change is projected to concentrate rainfall into more intense storms. Heavy rains may result in flooding, which could disrupt traffic, delay construction activities, and weaken or wash out the soil and culverts that support roads, tunnels, and bridges.[1][2]

Tropical Storm Irene damaged 2,000 roads, 1,000 culverts, and 200 miles of rail, and closed 200 bridges in Vermont in 2011. Source: USGCRP (2014)Exposure to flooding and extreme snow events also shortens the life expectancy of highways and roads. The stress of water and snow may cause damage, requiring more frequent maintenance, repairs, and rebuilding. Road infrastructure in coastal areas is particularly sensitive to more frequent and permanent flooding from sea level rise and storm surges. Approximately 60,000 miles of coastal roads in the United States are already exposed to flooding from coastal storms and high waves. Furthermore, major highways in coastal areas serve as critical evacuation routes. Evacuation routes must be protected from flooding and damage so they may be used for emergencies.[2] In some locations, warmer temperatures are projected to cause more winter precipitation to fall as rain instead of snow. Winter flooding could occur more frequently if the frozen ground cannot absorb precipitation. Landslides and wash-outs could also occur more frequently, as saturated soils are exposed to more rainwater. Drought in areas such as the Southwest could increase the likelihood of wildfires that reduce visibility and threaten roads and infrastructure.[1][2]

In the Gulf Coast, 2,400 miles of major roadway could be permanently flooded by sea level rise in the next 50 to 100 years. This map shows elevation levels surrounding roadways at risk under relative sea level rise of about four feet—within the range of end-of-century projections for this region (under medium- and high-emissions scenarios). In total, 24% of interstate highway miles and 28% of secondary road miles in the Gulf Coast region are at elevations below 4 feet. Source: USGCRP (2014)

Click the image to view a larger version.

Impacts on Ice Roads

Freezing temperatures are required for ice roads in Alaska. These are frozen routes used to connect northern communities, as well as the oil, gas, and mining industries. The tundra beneath these frozen roads is fragile, so transportation is limited to periods when the ground is frozen. Warming temperatures would reduce the number of days when ice roads are open, limiting transportation access to these areas.[2] To learn more about the impacts of climate change on transportation infrastructure in Alaska, please visit the Alaska Impacts & Adaptation page.

Impacts on Vehicles

As temperatures increase, many types of vehicles can overheat, and tires will deteriorate more quickly. However, milder winters, reductions in the number of cold days, delays in winter freezing, and earlier spring thaws may reduce cold-weather damage to vehicles.[1]

Impacts on Railways

Hurricane Sandy caused flooding in New York City subway stations in 2012. Source: USGCRP (2014)High temperatures cause rail tracks to expand and buckle. More frequent and severe heat waves may require track repairs or speed restrictions to avoid derailments.[1] Heavy precipitation could also lead to delays and disruption, and tropical storms and hurricanes can also flood or leave debris on railways, disrupting rail travel and freight transport. For example, the June 2008 Midwest floods closed major east-west rail lines for several days.[1][2] Like roadways, coastal railways and subways are subject to inundation from sea level rise and storm surges. This is particularly true in underground pathways and tunnels, which are often already below sea level. For example, after Hurricane Sandy hit New York City and New Jersey subway and commuter rail systems with a 14-foot storm surge, millions of people were left without subway service for over a week in 2012.[2] Damages from flooding may require rail lines and subway infrastructure to be rebuilt or raised in future expansion projects.[1][2]

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Impacts on Air Transportation

Climate changes may impact airplanes, airports, and airstrips, affecting air travel and infrastructure.

Impacts on Air Travel

Periods of extreme heat can affect aircraft performance and may cause airplanes to face cargo restrictions, flight delays, and cancellations. However, warmer weather in winter will reduce the need for airplane de-icing.[2]

In the winter and spring, increased rains and flooding may also disrupt air travel. Storms can force entire airports to close, as occurred along the Gulf Coast during Hurricane Katrina and throughout the Northeast during Hurricane Sandy.[1][2] Climate change may increase the frequency of these events and the number of airports that are affected.

Impacts on Air Transportation Infrastructure

In addition to causing closures or delays, flooding may damage facilities, including airstrips. Thirteen of the 47 largest U.S. airports have at least one runway within 12 feet of sea level, making them particularly vulnerable to coastal storm surge and inundation.[2] For example, in the tri-state area of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, many critical transportation infrastructure facilities (including Newark and LaGuardia airports) lie within the range of current and projected 50-year coastal storm surges.[1]

	Many airstrips in Alaska are built on permafrost (perennially frozen soils). Warmer temperatures will thaw permafrost and cause the ground to settle, potentially damaging the foundation and structure of key infrastructure. Runways and airports may require rebuilding, relocation, or increased maintenance.[1][2]

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Impacts on Marine Transportation

Climate changes will likely affect marine transportation infrastructure and logistics in many ways, both positive and negative.

Impacts on Ships and Sea Lanes

Ships are sensitive to many factors, including the depth of a channel and the extent of sea ice. Increasing temperatures could reduce the amount of sea ice in many important shipping lanes, extending the shipping season. Warmer winters will likely lead to less snow and ice accumulation on vessels, decks, and rigging in marine transportation. In the Arctic, warmer temperatures could also open up the possibility of a Northwest Passage during portions of the year, which could reduce shipping times and distances. However, these new passages may also provide a pathway for invasive species transport and survival.[1][2]

Shipping lanes experiencing sea level rise will be able to accommodate larger ships, reducing shipping costs. However, higher sea levels will mean lower clearance under waterway bridges. In inland waterways where water levels are expected to decline, as in parts of the Great Lakes, ships could face weight restrictions, as channels become too shallow.[1][2]

Changes in precipitation can affect shipping in many ways. Flooding could close shipping channels, and increased runoff from extreme precipitation events could cause silt and debris to build up, leading to shallower and less accessible channels. Channels that are not regularly maintained or have a lower capacity to store sedimentation are more vulnerable to abrupt disruptions in service. More severe storms could also increase disruptions in marine travel and shipping. In areas experiencing increasing drought, water levels could periodically decrease, limiting inland shipping on rivers.[1][2]

Impacts on Ports and Infrastructure

Hurricane Katrina damaged boats in Gulf Coast ports. Source: NOAALike other coastal infrastructure, harbor facilities, including docks and bridges, may have to be raised and fortified to accommodate higher tides and storm surges as sea levels rise.

The combination of relative sea level rise, land subsidence, and more intense hurricanes and tropical storms could lead to significant disruptions and damage.[1][2] One particularly vulnerable area is the Gulf Coast, which is home to seven of the 10 largest ports in the United States, and brought in 56% of the oil imported into the U.S. in 2011.

Resources on Climate Change Impacts on Transportation

The Impacts of Climate Change on Gulf Coast Transportation

			Under the U.S. Global Change Research Program, the Department of Transportation, in partnership with the U.S. Geological Survey, is conducting a detailed case study on the impacts of climate change on transportation systems and infrastructure in the Gulf Coast region. The first report of this study focused on the impacts of climate change on Gulf Coast transportation systems and infrastructure. The second report (released partially in 2012 and 2013) provides tools and guidance to help state and local transportation planners assess vulnerability and adapt to potential climate impacts.

Transportation and Climate Change: An Assessment by the National Research Council

			In 2008, the National Research Councilâ€™s Transportation Research Board conducted an in-depth study of the impacts of climate change on land, marine, and air transportation in the United States.

The report recommends that state and local governments, as well as private infrastructure providers, incorporate climate change into long-term improvement plans, design, and operations and maintenance activities. It also discusses the potential benefits of using â€œsmartâ€? technologies for monitoring infrastructure, reevaluating infrastructure design standards, updating maps used for flood insurance, and integrating climate change into transportation and land use planning.Â

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References

1. NRC (2008). The Potential Impacts of Climate Change on U.S. Transportation.Â Transportation Research Board Special Report 290. National Research Council (NRC).

2. USGCRP (2014). Climate Change Impacts in the United States: The Third National Climate Assessment. Melillo, Jerry M., Terese (T.C.) Richmond, and Gary W. Yohe (eds.). United States Global Change Research Program. 841 pp.

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Climate Change Impacts

Climate Impacts in the Northeast

On This Page:

Overview

Human Health

Precipitation and Sea Level Rise

Agriculture

Ecosystems

Winter Recreation

Key Points

The Northeast is experiencing warming temperatures and a large increase in the amount of rainfall measured during heavy precipitation events.

More frequent heat waves in the Northeast are expected to increasingly threaten human health through more heat stress and air pollution.

Sea level rise and more frequent heavy rains are expected to increase flooding and storm surge, threatening infrastructure.

As temperatures rise, agriculture will likely face reduced yields, potentially damaging livelihoods and the regional economy.

Related Links

EPA:

A Student's Guide to Global Climate Change: Effects on People and the Environment

Region 1 (including the Northeast states of CT, MA, ME, NH, RI, and VT)

Region 2 (including the Northeast states of NJ and NY)

Region 3 (including the Northeast states of DE, MD, PA, and WV)

Other:

USGCRP, Global Climate Change Impacts in the United States: Northeast

USDA, Office of the Chief Economist. Climate Risks in the Northeast

New York City Panel on Climate Change Exit

Overview

The Northeast is home to historic cities and large rural areas that serve as important natural habitats and agricultural lands. Climate varies widely across the region and tends to be coldest in the north, at high elevations, and away from the coast.

The Northeastern climate is experiencing noticeable changes that are expected to increase in the future. Between 1895 and 2011, temperatures rose by almost 2°F and projections indicate warming of 4.5°F to 10°F by the 2080s.[1] The frequency, intensity, and length of heat waves is also expected to increase. The total amount of precipitation and the frequency of heavy precipitation events has also risen in the region.[1] Between 1958 and 2012, the Northeast saw more than a 70% increase in the amount of rainfall measured during heavy precipitation events, more than in any other region in the United States.[2] Projections indicate continuing increases in precipitation, especially in winter and spring and in northern parts of the region. However, the timing of winter and spring precipitation could lead to drought conditions in summer as warmer temperatures increase evaporation and accelerate snow melt.

The annual number of days above 90°F is projected to increase, especially for southern portions of the Northeast region. This figure shows the average number of days with a maximum temperature of at least 90°F historically (1971-2000) and under two potential future scenarios (one with reduced greenhouse gas emissions [B1], and one with increases in emissions [A2]). Source: USGCRP (2014)[1]

Impacts on Human Health

Higher temperatures in the Northeast are likely to increase heat-related deaths and decrease air quality, especially in urban areas.[1] People at greatest risk include young children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions like asthma. Those who live alone or in low income communities are also at increased risk, particularly if individuals do not have access to air conditioning or are in poor health.[1] Increased strains on cooling infrastructure and greater energy demand could also affect access to air conditioning during heatwaves. Residents in urban areas may experience even warmer temperatures because of the heat island effect, in which metropolitan areas are significantly warmer due to dense populations and human activity. Residents in rural areas are also at high risk because of more buildings and homes without air conditioning.[1]

Studies indicate that climate change is lengthening the pollen season of common allergens such as ragweed, particularly for northern portions of the U.S.[1] Warmer and wetter conditions may increase seasonal activity and the extent of suitable habitat for ticks and mosquitoes, elevating risks of human exposure to vector-borne diseases like Lyme disease and West Nile Virus.[1] More frequent extreme precipitation events and flooding could increase the risk of injury or death, exposure to waterborne illnesses, and reduced access to clean water.[1][3]

For more information about the impacts of climate change on human health, please visit the Health page.

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Impacts on Precipitation and Sea Level Rise

Observed trends indicate an rise in sea level along Northeastern shorelines. (Figure source: NOAA). In Philadelphia, PA, sea level rose 1.2 feet between 1901 and 2012. Source: USGCRP (2014)[1]

Click the image to view a larger version.Sea level rise, heavy precipitation, and storm surge are expected to increase flooding and coastal erosion, and put further strain on aging infrastructure in the Northeast.[1] Millions of Northeastern residents live near coastlines and river floodplains, where they are potentially more vulnerable to these climate-related impacts. During storm events with heavy precipitation, combined sewer-stormwater systems in this region can overload, resulting in wastewater discharge into bodies of water used for recreation or drinking water and creating health risks.[1]

In the Northeast, sea level has risen by approximately 1 ft since 1900, which has caused more frequent flooding of coastal areas.[1] Globally, sea level is projected to rise by 1 to 4 ft by the end of this century. In the Northeast, even higher sea level rise is possible, due to the combined effects of warming waters and local land subsidence (sinking). Sea level rise and coastal flooding are likely to disrupt and damage important infrastructure, including communication systems, energy production, transportation, waste management, and access to clean water.[1] These impacts could have large economic implications across this region. In Boston, Massachusetts, the increase in flooding caused by sea level rise this century could cost up to $94 billion from damage to buildings, loss of building contents, and associated emergency activities, depending on the amount of sea level rise and adaptation measures taken.[1]

For more information on climate change impacts on coastal resources, please visit the Coastal page.

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Impacts on Agriculture

Climate change is affecting agricultural production in the Northeast. Heavy precipitation events can damage crops and wetter springs may delay planting, resulting in later harvest and reduced yields.[1] Longer, drier summers may reduce water availability and increase plant heat stress, also reducing yields. Warmer spring temperatures may be followed by cold snaps, causing frost damage, while warmer winters and longer growing seasons may increase pressure from weeds and pests.[1] These challenges are likely to affect the types of crops cultivated in the Northeast, as large portions of the region may become unsuitable for growing fruits, like apples and blueberries, and other crops, like grain and soybean.[4]

Dairy production is important to the Northeast's agricultural economy and is expected to be negatively affected by increasing temperatures.[4] Warmer conditions cause heat stress in farm animals, reducing milk yields and calf birth rates. Projected warming temperatures could also increase operations and production costs alongside reductions in milk and meat production.[4]

Fisheries are likely to be harmed by climate change. Many commercially important species are projected to move northward as the region's warming habitats become less suitable.[1] This shift in location is expected to cause local declines in species including lobster and cod. New diseases may also reduce the populations of fisheries. For example, a bacterial shell disease that infects lobsters is currently limited by low water temperatures in the northern portion of the Northeast.[4] Warming waters may allow this disease to move northward causing reduced catch, similar to what has been observed in southern parts of the region.

For more information about the impacts of climate change on agriculture and food supplies, please visit the Agriculture and Food Supply page.

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Impacts on Ecosystems

The Northeast is home to a diverse mixture of species and ecosystems that are affected by climate change. Ranges of certain tree species are moving northward and to higher elevations where temperatures are cooler.[1][4] The range of economically important tree species, like sugar maple, is expected to shrink within the U.S. as its preferred climate shifts north into Canada. Warmer temperatures are also increasing outbreaks of forests pests and pathogens, including hemlock woolly adelgid.[1] Growing deer populations have been degrading forest understories, while invasive plants like kudzu have been expanding their range and contributing to a loss of biodiversity, function, and resilience in some ecosystems.[1]

Temperature changes also influence the timing of important ecological events, causing birds to migrate sooner and plants to bloom and leaf earlier.[1] Climate change and sea level rise are expected to harm coastal ecosystems, causing declines in water quality, increasing harmful algal blooms, and shrinking marsh habitat.[1]

For more information about the impacts of climate change on ecosystems, please visit the Ecosystems and Forests page.

Tree species in the Northeast are shifting northward. The range of spruce/fir, maple, and elm/ash/cottonwood forests are shrinking and being replaced by oak/hickory forest in most of the region, and by loblolly/shortleaf pine forest in the southernmost areas. Source: USGCRP (2009)[4]

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Impacts on Winter Recreation

Winter recreational snow and ice activities generate about $7.6 billion for the Northeast economy annually.[4] These activities include snow sports (skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, dog sledding) and ice-based activities (ice fishing and skating).[4] Projected increases in temperature could reduce snow cover and shorten winter snow seasons, limiting and altering these activities.

In order for ski resorts to remain viable in the Northeast, the average length of the ski season should be at least 100 days, nights must be cold enough to allow for artificial snowmaking, and there must usually be snow during winter holidays when winter tourism is high.[4] Projections indicate that marginal ski resorts in the region will likely close and most resorts will be vulnerable by the end of the century because temperatures will become too warm to meet these criteria. Resorts are likely to require more artificial snowmaking to produce snowpack, employing additional water and energy and increasing costs to the resorts.[4]

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References

[1] USGCRP (2014). Horton, R., G. Yohe, W. Easterling, R. Kates, M. Ruth, E. Sussman, A. Whelchel, D. Wolfe, and F. Lipschultz, 2014: Ch. 16: Northeast. Climate Change Impacts in the United States: The Third National Climate Assessment, J. M. Melillo, Terese (T.C.) Richmond, and G. W. Yohe, Eds., U.S. Global Change Research Program.

[2] USGCRP (2014) Walsh, J., D. Wuebbles, K. Hayhoe, J. Kossin, K. Kunkel, G. Stephens, P. Thorne, R. Vose, M. Wehner, J. Willis, D. Anderson, S. Doney, R. Feely, P. Hennon, V. Kharin, T. Knutson, F. Landerer, T. Lenton, J. Kennedy, and R. Somerville, 2014: Ch. 2: Our Changing Climate. Climate Change Impacts in the United States: The Third National Climate Assessment, J. M. Melillo, Terese (T.C.) Richmond, and G. W. Yohe, Eds., U.S. Global Change Research Program, 19-67.

[3] USGCRP (2014). Luber, G., K. Knowlton, J. Balbus, H. Frumkin, M. Hayden, J. Hess, M. McGeehin, N. Sheats, L. Backer, C. B. Beard, K. L. Ebi, E. Maibach, R. S. Ostfeld, C. Wiedinmyer, E. Zielinski-Gutirrez, and L. Ziska, 2014: Ch. 9: Human Health. Climate Change Impacts in the United States: The Third National Climate Assessment, J. M. Melillo, Terese (T.C.) Richmond, and G. W. Yohe, Eds., U.S. Global Change Research Program, 220-256.

[4] USGCRP (2009). Global Climate Change Impacts in the United States. Karl, T. R., J. M. Melillo, and T. C. Peterson (eds.). United States Global Change Research Program. Cambridge University Press, New York, NY, USA.

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Climate Change

Adaptation Overview

Many governments and organizations across the United States and the world are already adapting to climate change. This is important because we are already seeing the impacts of climate change – including sea level rise, changing precipitation patterns, and more frequent incidences of heat waves and other extreme weather events. Many impacts are expected to grow in geographic scale, rate, or intensity as global temperatures continue to increase.

Individuals, organizations, and communities can take many steps to adapt to a changing climate – and to help plants and animals cope as well.

Adaptation actions can be:

Reactive: responding to conditions that have already changed.

Anticipatory: planning for climate change before impacts have occurred.

Examples of Adaptation

Adaptation measures are already in place in many areas, as the examples below show. These actions can be expanded or modified to prepare for climate change. But additional measures, such as new technologies and policies, may also be needed. Such actions could require time and resources to carry out, so planning now is important.

Agriculture and Food Supply

Develop crop varieties that are more tolerant of heat, drought, or flooding from heavy rains.

Provide more shade and air flow in barns to protect livestock from higher summer temperatures.

Coasts

Preserve wetlands and open spaces to protect coastal communities from flooding and erosion from storms and sea level rise.

Improve evacuation planning for low-lying areas to prepare for increased storm surge and flooding.

Ecosystems

Protect and expand wildlife habitats to allow species to migrate as the climate changes.

Reduce pollution, habitat loss, and other stressors that make ecosystems more vulnerable to climate change.

Energy

Increase energy efficiency to help offset rises in energy consumption, such as from more air conditioning use as temperatures warm.

Strengthen energy production facilities to withstand increased flood, wind, lightning, and other storm-related stresses.

Human Health

Set up early warning systems and emergency response plans to prepare for more extreme weather events.

Educate people to help them avoid diseases that could become more prevalent as the climate changes, such as those carried by mosquitoes or ticks.

Plant trees and expand green spaces in cities to reduce the "urban heat island" effect.

Water Resources

Improve water use efficiency, and build additional water storage capacity.

Protect and restore stream and river banks to provide wildlife habitat and safeguard water resources.

Key Adaptation Terms

Adaptation – Adjustment in natural or human systems to a new or changing environment that takes advantage of beneficial opportunities or moderates negative effects.

Adaptive capacity – The ability of a system to adjust to climate change (including climate variability and extremes) to moderate potential damages, take advantage of opportunities, or cope with the consequences.

Resilience – A capability to anticipate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from significant threats with minimum damage to social well-being, the economy, and the environment.

Vulnerability – The degree to which a system is susceptible to, or unable to cope with, adverse effects of climate change, including climate variability and extremes. Vulnerability is a function of the character, magnitude, and rate of climate variation to which a system is exposed, its sensitivity, and its adaptive capacity.

Source: National Research Council, 2010. Adapting to the Impacts of Climate Change.

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EPA Adaptation Collaboration

EPA works with federal, state, tribal, local, and international partners to respond to a changing climate.

Federal Agency Activities

Federal agencies have taken important steps to lead the nation in preparing for and adapting to the impacts of climate change. These activities are coordinated by the U.S. Global Research Program (USGCRP).  Through interagency partnerships and collaborations with leading experts, the USGCRP works to advance the science on climate change and its impacts on society, now and in the future. USGCRP convenes federal agencies and resources to focus on adaptation science and effective actions to address global change at the local, regional, and national levels.

States, Local Government, and Tribal Initiatives

Governments at the state, local, and tribal levels are taking important steps to prepare now for the impacts of climate change. Some of their activities are supported by EPA.

EPA provides climate and energy resources for state, local, and tribal governments who are taking action on climate change.

EPA's Making a Visible Difference in Communities supports environmentally overburdened, underserved, and economically distressed areas to pursue community-based environmental improvements that enhance economic opportunity, improve quality of life, and build long-term sustainability.

International Efforts

Countries around the world are beginning to prepare for the impacts of a changing climate. Some of their efforts are supported by:

EPA's Role in International Climate Adaptation is to facilitate information-sharing on climate adaptation with communities and city planners in the developing world, which is particularly vulnerable to climate change.

100 Resilient Cities helps cities around the world become more resilient when faced with physical, social, and economic challenges associated with climate change.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Climate Change

The Earthâ€™s climate is changing. Rising temperatures are already driving changes in climate around the globe, including changes in precipitation patterns and the frequency or intensity of extreme events such as storms, floods, droughts, and heat waves.The warmer climate has also led to rising sea levels, changes in snow and ice cover, longer growing seasons, and impacts on infrastructure, public health, and ecosystems. Many of these observed changes are linked to the rising levels of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases in our atmosphere, caused by human activities.Â [1]Â

See the frequently asked questions below to learn more about the causes of climate change, why it matters, and what we can do about it.

What is climate?

Climate refers to average weather conditions over many years. For example, the climate in Minnesota is cold and snowy in the winter, while the climate in Hawai'i is warm and humid all year long. Weather, in contrast, refers to a specific event or condition that happens over a period of hours or days. For example, a thunderstorm, a snowstorm, and today's temperature all describe weather.Â

What is climate change?

Climate change involves significant changes, over several decades or longer, in temperature, precipitation, wind patterns, and other aspects of climate. Weather varies naturally from year to year, so one unusually cold or wet year followed by an unusually warm or dry year would not be considered a sign of climate change. Climate change involves longer-term trends, such as a gradual shift toward warmer, wetter, or drier conditions.Â

â€œGlobal Warmingâ€? vs. â€œClimate Changeâ€?

Global warming is just one aspect of climate change. Itâ€™s a term used to describe the recent rise in the global average temperature near Earth's surface, which is caused mostly by increasing concentrations of greenhouse gases (such as carbon dioxide and methane) in the atmosphere. The terms â€œglobal warmingâ€? and â€œclimate changeâ€? are sometimes used interchangeably, but warming is only one of the ways in which climate is affected by rising concentrations of greenhouse gases.

What is the evidence that shows the climate is changing?

Hundreds of independent lines of evidence confirm that our climate is changing. For example, scientists have documented long-term changes around the world in temperature, precipitation, sea level, and the amount of heat stored in the ocean. Especially dramatic changes are underway in the Arctic, where warming is amplified by powerful feedbacks. Reductions in sea ice, land-based ice, and snow cover, along with the thawing of permafrost, are having profound impacts in the Arctic and beyond. Rising sea levels, caused mainly by the expansion of seawater as it warms, along with billions of tons of water added to the ocean each year from melting glaciers, ice caps, and ice sheets, are affecting coastal communities in many parts of the world, including places like South Florida, Chesapeake Bay, and low-lying communities along the Gulf Coast in the United States. Changes in the length of growing seasons and pollen seasons, the timing of bird migrations, and range shifts in plants and wildlife provide still more evidence for recent changes in climate.

The Greenhouse Effect

Greenhouse gases, such as CO2, methane, and nitrous oxide, act like a blanket around the planet. They trap energy in the atmosphere and cause it to warm. This phenomenon, called the greenhouse effect, is natural and necessary to support life on Earth: without it the Earthâ€™s average temperature would be around 0Â°F. But scientists agree that the continuing buildup of greenhouse gases in the atmosphereâ€”caused mainly by the burning of fossil fuels for energyâ€”will upset the natural energy balance and change Earth's climate, with potentially dangerous risks to human health, infrastructure, the economy, and ecosystems.Â

How do we know humans are causing climate change?

Climate scientists have concluded that humans are largely responsible for the climate change that has occurred since the 1950s.[1]Â Human activitiesâ€”such as burning fossil fuels for energy, cultivating crops, raising livestock, and clearing forestsâ€”are releasing greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.Â These greenhouse gases are being emitted faster than forests and the oceans can remove them, causing them to build up in the atmosphere.Â

Red bars show global average (land and sea) temperatures above the long-term average, and blue bars indicate temperatures below the long-term average. The black line shows the concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere.

Source: National Climate Assessment, 2014

The atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) has increased by more than 40% since pre-industrial times, and the current CO2Â level is higher than it has been in at least 800,000 years.[1] We know that human activities are the cause of this increase because the CO2Â emitted by burning fossil fuels carries a distinct chemical fingerprint thatâ€™s detectable in the atmosphere.[2]

Scientists have known since the 1800s that greenhouse gases trap heat, preventing it from escaping to space. The warming effect of greenhouse gases is amplified by feedbacks, especially from water vapor (a powerful and plentiful natural greenhouse gas),Â leading to more warming and changes in climate.[1] Natural influences on climate, such as changes in solar radiation, natural cycles, volcanic eruptions, and the climateâ€™s normal year-to-year variability, canâ€˜t fully explain the current warming trend.[1]Â The climate changes observed in recent decades follow a number of patternsâ€”such as cooling at high altitudes and more warming at night than during the dayâ€”that are consistent with what scientists would expect from an increase in greenhouse gases rather than changes in solar variability or other natural causes.[1]

Climate models that account only for the effects of natural processes cannot explain the warming observed over the past century. Models that also account for the greenhouse gases emitted by humans are able to explain this warming.

Source: National Climate Assessment, 2014

Why is climate change a serious problem?

The Earthâ€™s average temperature has risen by 1.5Â°F over the past century, and climate scientists estimate it will rise another 0.5 to 8.6Â°F by the end of this century, depending, in part, on future emissions.[1]Â That may not sound like much to worry about, since most of us experience much greater temperature changes over the course of a day or from season to season. But the global average temperature during the height of the last ice age was only 5 to 9Â°F cooler than it is today.[3]Â Relatively small changes in the planetâ€™s average temperature can mean big changes in local and regional climate, creating risks to public health and safety[4],Â water resources, agriculture, infrastructure, and ecosystems.[5]Â Following are some examples:Â [5]

Increasing heat waves: Heat waves have become more frequent in the United States in recent decades.Â Climate scientists expect the number of days with temperatures above 90Â°F to increase in the United States as the climate changes, especially toward the end of this century.Â

More extreme weather: In addition to heat waves, changes in precipitation patterns, including extreme precipitation events, storms, and floods, are becoming more common and more severe in many regions, and this is expected to continue.Â

Intensified droughts: Higher temperatures lead to increased rates of evaporation and can lead to more rapid drying of soils. Without reductions in global greenhouse gas emissions, longer-term droughts are expected to intensify in much of the Southwest, the Great Plains, and the Southeast.

Impacts on crops: Over the past 40 years, climate disruptions to agricultural production have increased, and this is expected to continue.

Impacts on health: Climate change is increasing our exposure to extreme temperatures, extreme weather events; degraded air quality; diseases transmitted through food, water, and insects; and stresses to mental health and well-being.Â These threats to human health are expected to increase with continued climate change.

More wildfires: The area burned by wildfire in parts of western North America is expected to double (or more) for each 1.8Â°F increase in global average temperature.[6]

Rising sea levels: Global sea level has risen by about eight inches since the late 1800s, and is projected to rise another 1 to 4 feet by the end of this century.Â Flooding is becoming more frequent along the U.S. coastline, especially in the Mid-Atlantic region where the land is simultaneously sinking.

Impacts on health: Climate change is increasing our exposure to extreme temperatures, extreme weather events; degraded air quality; diseases transmitted through food, water, and insects; and stresses to mental health and well-being.Â These threats to human health are expected to increase with continued climate change.

How does climate change affect my health?

Climate change endangers our health by affecting our food and water sources, the air we breathe, the weather we experience, and our interactions with the built and natural environments. As the climate continues to change, the risks to human health continue to grow.

Although every American is vulnerable to the health impacts associated with climate change, some populations are disproportionately vulnerable, including those with low income, some communities of color, immigrant groups (including those with limited English proficiency), Indigenous peoples, children and pregnant women, older adults, vulnerable occupational groups, persons with disabilities, and persons with preexisting orÂ chronicÂ medical conditions.[4]

The diagram above shows specific examples of how climate change can affect human health, now and in the future. These effects could occur at local, regional, or national scales.

Source: The Impacts of Climate Change on Human Health in the United States: A Scientific Assessment (USGCRP)

How can we reduce the risks we face from climate change?

By making choices that reduce greenhouse gas pollution, and preparing for the changes expected in the future, we can reduce risks from climate change. Our decisions today will shape the world we live in and the world we leave to our children and grandchildren.Â

Due to time lags in the climate system and the fact that CO2 stays in the atmosphere for hundreds or thousands of years, the climate will continue to warm until at least mid-century regardless of what we do today to reduce emissions (see graph below). If we fail to make substantial cuts to greenhouse gas emissions, the Earth will keep warming for centuries to come.[1]

Observed and projected changes in global average temperature under four possible emissions scenarios (known as Representative Concentration Pathways, or RCPs). The vertical bars at right show likely ranges in temperature by the end of the century. Note that temperature trends associated with the alternative emissions pathways only start to diverge around mid-century, indicating that some climate change is inevitable in the next few decades regardless of how quickly we reduce emissions today.

Source: IPCC Fifth Assessment Report, 2013

But it is not too late to address climate change and reduce the risks of impacts in the second half of this century and beyond. Doing so will require substantial cuts in greenhouse emissions. This will require stepping up improvements in energy efficiency, reducing waste, slowing deforestation, and shifting to cleaner energy sources.Â

Communities can also prepare for the changes in the decades ahead by identifying and reducing their vulnerabilities and incorporating consideration of climate change risks into planning and development. Such actions can ensure that the most vulnerable populationsâ€”such as young children, older adults, and people living in povertyâ€”are protected from health and safety threats from climate change.

What are the benefits of acting on climate change now?

Economic studies suggest that the longer we wait to act on climate change, the more expensive it will be.Â There are many technologies already available, and actions we can take today, that will help us reduce our risks. Many of the actions that we can take to address climate change will have immediate benefits, such as cleaner, healthier air, as well as significant future climate benefits. A recent EPA study found that global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions could avoid tens of thousands of deaths annually in the U.S. by the end of the century and avoid billions of dollars in damages related to water shortages, agricultural losses, flooding, and other impacts.

Can I make a difference?

Yes â€“ small actions really add up!Â There are many actions that individuals and business can take to reduce their carbon footprint and act on climate change.Â Simple actions such as using energy-efficient light bulbs, looking for the ENERGY STAR label on appliances and other products, recycling and composting, purchasing green power, using public transit, and bicycling or walking instead of driving can make a difference by reducing your householdâ€™s carbon footprint.

As thousands of households and businesses have already discovered, improving energy efficiency in our homes and products can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and also save money. EPAâ€™s ENERGY STAR program, a voluntary initiative that drives more widespread use of energy-efficient products and practices, has saved U.S. businesses, organizations, and consumers more than $362 billion in energy costs since 1992 while avoiding more than 2 billion metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions.

Where can I learn more?

EPAâ€™s Climate Change site provides details on the science and impacts of climate change, sources of emissions, a household emissions calculator, and much more.

What You Can Do about Climate ChangeÂ on EPA'sÂ Climate Change site offers suggestions for what you can do at home, at the office, at school, and on the road to reduce your greenhouse gas emissions.

Climate.gov, run by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, serves asÂ a source for news and features on U.S. and global climate, maps and data, and resources for teachers.

NASAâ€™s Global Climate Change site provides news, educational information, apps, images, multimedia, and other resources.

The U.S. Global Change Research Program conducts the U.S. National Climate Assessment and conducts a wide range of other research on climate change.

Climate Change Evidence and Causes, a report by the National Academy of Sciences,Â looks at 20 common questions about climate changeÂ and provides authoritative answers from leading climate scientists.Â

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References

1. IPCC (2013).Â Summary for Policymakers. In:Â Climate Change 2013: The Physical Science Basis.Â Contribution ofÂ Working Group I to the Fifth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Â Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

	2. IPCC (2007). Climate Change 2007: The Physical Science Basis. Frequently Asked Questions. FAQ 7.1. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

	3.Â IPCC (2007). Climate Change 2007: The Physical Science Basis. Executive Summary. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

	4.â€‹ USGCRP (2016). The Impacts of Climate Change on Human Health in the United States: A Scientific Assessment.Â Crimmins, A., J. Balbus, J.L. Gamble, C.B. Beard, J.E. Bell, D. Dodgen, R.J. Eisen, N. Fann, M.D. Hawkins, S.C. Herring, L. Jantarasami, D.M. Mills, S. Saha, M.C. Sarofim, J. Trtanj, and L. Ziska, Eds. U.S. Global Change Research Program.

	5. USGCRP (2014).Climate Change Impacts in the United States: The Third National Climate Assessment. Melillo, Jerry M., Theres (T.C.) Richmond, and Gary W. Yohe, Eds., U.S. Global Change Research Program.

	6. National Research CouncilÂ (2011). Climate Stabilization Targets: Emissions, Concentrations, and Impacts over Decades to Millenia. National Academies Press.

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Climate Change

Evaluating Climate Policy Options, Costs and Benefits

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Common-sense Approaches Through the Clean Air Act

Analysis of Proposed Climate Legislation

Understanding Benefits

Research Underlying EPA Economic Modeling of Climate Policies

EPA analyzes the anticipated economic effects of proposed standards and policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. These analyses have shown that there are a variety of cost-effective policies available to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Policy options range from comprehensive market-based legislation to targeted regulations to reduce emissions and improve the efficiency of vehicles, power plants and large industrial sources. Underlying these analyses are economic models and detailed studies of technologies to reduce emissions.

Common-sense Approaches Through the Clean Air Act

EPA is taking action under the Clean Air Act to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the largest sources by increasing the efficiency of our power plants, cars, and trucks. Our analyses show that these regulations will save consumers money at the pump, improve the air we breathe, promote jobs in the green technology sector, and cut millions of tons of harmful greenhouse gas emissions.

EPA's regulatory initiatives for greenhouse gases under the Clean Air Act

Historical economic benefits from taking action under the Clean Air Act

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Analysis of Proposed Climate Legislation

Congress periodically proposes legislation to lower greenhouse gas emissions, and EPA economists analyze these bills as part of the legislative process. EPA analyses have shown that comprehensive, market-based climate legislation can transform the U.S. energy system and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, all at relatively low cost.

EPA Legislative Analyses

Climate Economic Modeling

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Understanding Benefits

Taking actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions yields important economic benefits. These benefits are from the reduced risk to human health and welfare that results from lower emissions of greenhouse gases and less global warming and climate change. EPA and other federal agencies have developed Social Cost of Carbon (SC-CO2) estimates to assess the economic benefits of rulemakings that reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. When agencies prepare to issue regulations implementing the laws enacted by Congress, they must justify proposed regulations by assessing their cost and benefits to the economy and society. The SC-CO2 is typically used in the benefits part of the cost-benefit analysis. For a regulation that decreases emissions, the SC-CO2 represents the damage avoided--or the benefit of the regulation--for marginal reductions of CO2.

As discussed in the supporting technical documentation, (PDF, 21pp, 1.4MB) however, these benefit estimates are not complete because current models do not yet capture all of the important physical, ecological, and economic impacts of rising levels of CO2 in the atmosphere that are recognized in the literature. Nonetheless, these estimates and the discussion of their limitations in the supporting technical documentation represent the best available information about the social benefits of CO2 reductions to inform benefit-cost analysis.

EPA is exploring approaches to further understand the benefits of CO2 reductions that complement the analysis conducted with the SC-CO2. While the SC-CO2 is a useful metric to assess marginal changes in CO2 emissions in the context of cost-benefit analysis, bottom-up approaches, such as the Climate Change Impacts and Risks Analysis (CIRA) project, may offer additional insights about the impact of significant global action.

CIRA is a peer-reviewed study comparing impacts in a future with significant global action on climate change to a future in which current greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise.

In 2015, EPA released a report, Climate Change in the United States: Benefits of Global Action, estimating the physical and monetary benefits to the U.S. of reducing global greenhouse gas emissions. This report summarizes results from the CIRA. Although no specific mitigation policies were analyzed, the report shows that global action on climate change will significantly benefit Americans by saving lives and avoiding costly damages across the U.S. economy.

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Research Underlying EPA Economic Modeling of Climate Policies:

Climate Economic Modeling

EPA uses a variety of economic models and analytical tools when conducting climate economic analyses of climate legislation or policy. These models help researchers estimate the future effects of proposed policies on energy production, the economy, emissions of CO2, and land use trends in agriculture and forestry.

Air Quality and Climate Modeling

EPA is creating decision support tools to evaluate policy options for both air quality and climate change

Transportation Sector Analyses

EPA conducts modeling and feasibility analyses to understand the potential of technologies and strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector.

International Emissions Projections for Non CO2 Gases

EPA conducts studies of projected global emissions of the methane, nitrous oxide, and fluorinated greenhouse gases which account for about 30 percent of human-caused warming. Projected emissions studies for the non-CO2 gases provide a benchmark that can be used to measure the potential environmental and economic impact of proposed climate policies across all relevant gases.

International Mitigation Technologies to Reduce Emissions of Non CO2 Gases

Numerous technologies are available to reduce emissions of methane, nitrous oxide, and fluorinated greenhouse gases. EPA develops reports that evaluate the costs of various technologies to reduce non-CO2 greenhouse gas emissions. These reports also provide cumulative marginal abatement cost curves which are used by researchers to represent mitigation costs in their models.

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What You Can Do: At the Office

Business and home offices use a significant amount of electricity for heating and cooling, lighting, and operating equipment. Here are a number of easy ways to protect the environment, fight climate change, and help make the air cleaner.

1. Manage your office equipment energy use better

Did you know that the total electricity consumed by idle electronics equals the annual output of 12 power plants? Save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions at work by setting your computer, monitor, and other office equipment to power down when not in use. Activate the power management features on your computer and monitor, unplug laptop power cords when not in use, and turn off equipment and lights at the end of the day. Plugging everything into a power strip makes it easy to shut everything down at one time.

Related Links

ENERGY STAR®

EPA's Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle

EPA's Electronics Recycling

ENERGY STAR Bring Your Green to Work

EPA's WasteWise

EPA's Green Power Partnership

Federal Fuel Economy Guide

EPA's Green Vehicle Guide

2. Look for ENERGY STAR-qualified products for the office

Office products that have earned the ENERGY STAR feature special energy-efficient designs, which enable them to use less energy while performing regular tasks. Look for ENERGY STAR–qualified office equipment, such as computers, copiers, and printers, in addition to more than 60 product categories, including lighting, heating and cooling equipment, and commercial appliances.

3. Ask your office building manager if your building has earned the ENERGY STAR

Buildings can earn EPA's ENERGY STAR too! ENERGY STAR-labeled buildings provide safe, healthy, and productive environments that use about 35% less energy than average buildings. Their efficient use of energy also reduces the total operational cost of the building. Let your facility's maintenance department know about the ENERGY STAR buildings program, so they can learn how to improve your building's performance.

4. Use less energy for your commute

Switching to public transportation, carpooling, biking, or telecommuting can save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions on your way to and from work. Encourage your employer to offer commuter benefits that address limited or expensive parking, reduce traffic congestion, improve employee recruiting and retention, and minimize the environmental impacts associated with drive-alone commuting. If you do drive, find out the fuel efficiency of your vehicle at the Federal Fuel Economy website, and make more environmentally informed choices when purchasing your next vehicle by using EPA's Green Vehicle Guide.

Did You Know?

5. Reduce, reuse, recycle

Reducing, reusing, and recycling at the office helps conserve energy and reduces pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Reduce, reuse, and recycle at the office by using two-sided printing and copying; only printing what you need; buying supplies made with recycled content; and recycling paper products, batteries, and used printer cartridges. All of these actions help conserve energy and reduce carbon pollution. For old electronics (e.g., computers, monitors, cell phones, TVs), investigate leasing programs, manufacturer and retailer take-back programs, and municipal programs and events to ensure reuse and recycling. You can also donate used equipment to schools or other organizations and take advantage of any available tax incentives for computer donations. Visit EPA's WasteWise website for information on starting a recycling program at work.

6. Use green power

Emissions from electricity generated from fossil fuels can be one of the most significant environmental impacts associated with your organization's operations. Green power is electricity that is generated from renewable energy sources such as wind, sun, geothermal, and biomass. Purchasing green power is an easy, effective way for your organization to reduce its carbon footprint and environmental impact. Visit EPA's Green Power Partnership for information on how to purchase green power.

7. Encourage your organization to develop a greenhouse gas inventory

Developing a greenhouse gas inventory is a critical first step toward measuring and managing your organization’s climate change impact. An inventory is a list of emission sources and the associated emissions quantified using standardized methods. Many organizations are taking this step and by doing so find that most of their emissions come from building heating and cooling, fleet vehicles, electricity use, and employee travel. EPA’s Center for Corporate Climate Leadership is a resource center to help all organizations identify and achieve cost-effective greenhouse gas emission reductions.

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Carbon Dioxide Capture and Sequestration: Overview

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What is carbon dioxide capture and sequestration?

Why is it important?

What sources of carbon dioxide can it be applied to?

Where can captured carbon dioxide be stored?

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Federal Research and Regulations

Storage Safety and Security

What is carbon dioxide capture and sequestration?

Carbon dioxide (CO2) capture and sequestration (CCS) is a set of technologies that can greatly reduce CO2 emissions from new and existing coal- and gas-fired power plants and large industrial sources. CCS is a three-step process that includes:

Capture of CO2 from power plants or industrial processes

Transport of the captured and compressed CO2 (usually in pipelines).

Underground injection and geologic sequestration (also referred to as storage) of the CO2 into deep underground rock formations. These formations are often a mile or more beneath the surface and consist of porous rock that holds the CO2. Overlying these formations are impermeable, non-porous layers of rock that trap the CO2 and prevent it from migrating upward.

Quick Fact

What's the difference between carbon dioxide capture and sequestration (CCS) and geologic sequestration?

Geologic sequestration is one step in the CCS process. Unlike terrestrial, or biologic, sequestration, where carbon is stored via agricultural and forestry practices, geologic sequestration involves injecting carbon dioxide deep underground where it stays permanently.

The figure below illustrates the general CCS process and shows a typical depth at which CO2 would be injected.

CCS Schematic (Subsurface depth to scale, 5,280 feet equals one mile)

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Why is it important?

Learn More

EPA's Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program (GHGRP) collects information from facilities in 41 industry types that directly emit large quantities of GHGs, suppliers of certain fossil fuels, and facilities that inject CO2 underground.

Carbon dioxide (CO2) capture and sequestration (CCS) could play an important role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, while enabling low-carbon electricity generation from power plants. As estimated in the U.S. Inventory of Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks, more than 40% of CO2 emissions in the United States are from electric power generation. CCS technologies are currently available and can dramatically reduce (by 80-90%) CO2 emissions from power plants that burn fossil fuels. Applied to a 500 MW coal-fired power plant, which emits roughly 3 million tons of CO2 per year,[1] the amount of GHG emissions avoided (with a 90% reduction efficiency) would be equivalent to:

Planting more than 62 million trees, and waiting at least 10 years for them to grow.

Avoiding annual electricity-related emissions from more than 300,000 homes.

To see this emissions reduction expressed in other equivalent terms, see EPA's Carbon Equivalencies Calculator.

CCS could also viably be used to reduce emissions from industrial process such as cement production and natural gas processing facilities.

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What sources of carbon dioxide can it be applied to?

Carbon dioxide (CO2) capture and sequestration (CCS) can significantly reduce emissions from large stationary sources of CO2, which include coal- and natural-gas-fired power plants, as well as certain industry types such as ethanol and natural gas processing plants. EPA's Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program includes facilities that capture CO2 for the purpose of supplying the CO2 to the economy or for injecting it underground (Subpart PP). According to the Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program, CO2 capture is currently occurring at over 120 facilities in the United States, mainly on industrial processes, and the CO2 is used for a wide range of end uses. End uses of CO2 include enhanced oil recovery (EOR), food and beverage manufacturing, pulp and paper manufacturing, and metal fabrication. The figure below shows the portion of CO2 that is currently being captured from power plants and other industrial facilities and the portion that is extracted by production wells from natural CO2 bearing formations in the United States. The second figure shows the various domestic end uses of captured and extracted CO2. (Note that natural sources of CO2 are not considered in the Total CO2 Supply End Uses figure). As CCS becomes more widespread, it is expected that the portion of CO2 captured in the United States from power generation and industrial processes will increase.

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Where can captured carbon dioxide be stored?

After capture, carbon dioxide (CO2) is compressed and then transported to a site where it is injected underground for permanent storage (also known as "sequestration"). CO2 is commonly transported by pipeline, but it can also be transported by train, truck, or ship. Geologic formations suitable for sequestration include depleted oil and gas fields, deep coal seams, and saline formations. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that anywhere from 1,800 to 20,000 billion metric tons of CO2 could be stored underground in the United States.[2] That is equivalent to 600 to 6,700 years of current level emissions from large stationary sources in the United States.[3]

Overview of Geologic Storage Potential in the United States (Source: U.S. Department of Energy, NATCARB)

Potential sequestration sites must undergo appropriate site characterization to ensure that the site can safely and securely store CO2. After being transported to the sequestration site, the compressed CO2 is injected deep underground into solid, but porous rock, such as sandstone, shale, dolomite, basalt, or deep coal seams. Suitable formations for CO2 sequestration are located under one or more layers of cap rock, which trap the CO2 and prevent upward migration. These sites are then rigorously monitored to ensure that the CO2 remains permanently underground. The safety and security of CO2 geologic sequestration is a priority for EPA.

For more information, visit the National Carbon Sequestration Database and Geographic Information System (NATCARB), Exit a geographic information system (GIS)-based tool developed to provide an overview of CCS projects and storage potential.

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References

[1] MIT (2007) The Future of Coal: Options for a Carbon-Constrained World, Exit Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 2007.

[2] NACAP (2012) The North American Carbon Storage Atlas, Exit The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), and the Mexican Ministry of Energy (SENER).

[3] GHGRP (2012) EPA Greenhouse Gas Reporting Data-Subpart PP-Suppliers of Carbon Dioxide. Based on 2011 data.

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