Preparing for climate change

Even with aggressive efforts to reduce greenhouse gases, the scientific consensus predicts that the Earth's temperatures will continue to rise for decades. Climbing temperatures are already having serious consequences for vulnerable people and regions through droughts, extreme weather, and melting glaciers. The authors maintain that we must start adapting to climate change now by identifying the places and people most at risk and taking anticipatory action--from developing drought-resistant crops to building sea walls. Climate change is inevitable, but disaster is not. The author's proposal for reducing greenhouse-gas emissions while preparing for their effects offers our best hope.