PRESS RELEASE
Contact: Jenna Jorns, Great Lakes Integrated Sciences and Assessments (GLISA)
GLISA COLLABORATES WITH DETROITERS WORKING FOR ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE TO DEVELOP DETROIT’S CLIMATE ACTION PLAN
On October 26th, GLISA climatologist Omar Gates appeared alongside Detroiters Working for Environmental Justice (DWEJ) to present Detroit’s first-ever Climate Action Plan. Developed by the Detroit Climate Action Collaborative, an initiative of DWEJ, the plan outlines “specific ideas and attainable goals.” The recommendations are intended to stimulate public and political support for enhanced climate action. Over the past several years, GLISA has worked with DWEJ to provide the climate information within the plan.
In his remarks, Gates drew attention to the potential impacts of warmer temperatures on vulnerable populations, such as youth and the elderly, and increased precipitation on the daily functions of the city. Highlighting the importance of the data within the plan, Gates said: “Having accurate climate information that explains these changes and impacts is critical for effective planning, building climate resilience, and increasing the future sustainability of the city.” He expressed his hope that the collaboration between GLISA and DWEJ will give the citizens of Detroit the opportunity to better understand climate change and associated impacts in the city.