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Climate Change

Globall Warming
Global Warming

Introduction

Climate change (global warming) is a problem that will affect every area differently. For example, ocean acidification is of particular interest because of the ways it affects Maine’s fishing industry. Our goal is to present information that is directly relevant to the Town of Saint George so that citizens and Town managers may make the best decisions.

The warming of our planet thermally expands our oceans and melts existing ice sheets. These cause sea level rise, but also increases the frequency and severity of damaging weather events such as floods, droughts and storms. The overwhelming scientific consensus is that carbon dioxide from burning fossil fuels is a major contributor to global warming and that reduction of these emissions is necessary. Although there are some differing opinions about the causes of global warming, there is no dispute that the oceans are rising and having an ever-increasing effect on our shorelines. 

The following topics deal with two aspects of climate change. (1) Local solutions to the help mitigate the effects of global warming by reducing our dependence of fossil fuels (reducing carbon footprint), and (2) dealing with the ongoing sea level rise that will impact our coastlines and marine industries.

For a comprehensive description of Climate Change click go to the United Nations Climate Change site

Maine Climate Science Dashboard 

Maine, like much of the northeast, is warming faster than the global average. This dashboard lets you explore historical observations and future scenarios for three climate change indicators: land temperatures, ocean surface temperatures, and sea level rise.

By tracking these indicators, reconstructing past climate changes, and using advanced modeling to understand potential future climate changes, climate scientists have assembled a picture of Maine’s possible climate future under different greenhouse gas emissions scenarios. Follow this link to learn more: https://climatecouncil.maine.gov/maine-climate-science-dashboard

Reducing Carbon Footprint (Worldwide Mitigation)

Conservation (Use less energy)

The best way to reduce carbon emissions is simply to use less energy by changing your habits, improving your house and by using more efficient appliances.

Electric Car

Changing Habits

  • Buy a “greener” car and drive less 
  • Lower your thermostat in winter and raise in summer
  • Here are some other ideas
    1. EPA Greener Living

Impact Beyond St. George

Our Climate Change page has recently been used as a resource by a group of elementary students from Bay Minette, Alabama as part of an environmental science lesson. It is great to see that we have an impact beyond our small town. The students recommended the second resource to share for being more eco-friendly at home.

Home Improvements 

Light Bulbs

Solar Power

Go to Solar Page

Sea Level Rise

Click here for information on Sea Level Rise.

Education

A goal of the Conservation Commission is to provide information for making good decisions on a variety of environmental issues.

Seminars/Workshops: SLR, Solar (Fair)

Useful References

Other Documents of Interest

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