Climate Action Resources

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Climate Change Science

We are seeing the direct impacts of climate change today. Temperatures are rising, snow and rainfall patterns are shifting, and we are experiencing more extreme climate events – like heavy rainstorms and record-high temperatures. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) compiles a key set of indicators related to the causes and effects of climate change based on data contributions from more than 50 contributors ranging from government agencies, academic institutions and other organizations. Learn more about Climate Change Indicators and download the Indicators Factsheet (PDF).

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is an international body established by the United Nations to provide policymakers with regular assessments of the scientific basis of climate change, its impacts and future risks, and options for adaptation and mitigation. Thousands of scientists from all over the world contribute to the work of the IPCC. Review is an essential part of the IPCC process, to ensure an objective and complete assessment of current information.

If you’d like to take a deeper dive and explore analyses by the world’s leading climate scientists, the best source of information is the IPCC, particularly its most recent Special Report: Global Warming of 1.5° C (PDF) analyzing the impacts of global warming of 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. We recommend viewing The Smithsonian's Climate Change 101 with Bill Nye the Science Guy.

Climate Data Sources

Data about climate change risk, adaptation, and mitigation in Montgomery County can be found in the following local, state, and federal websites or mapping applications.

Montgomery County

State of Maryland

Federal Government

Climate Change Commissions and Networks

  • Maryland Commission on Climate Change – stakeholders who develop action plans and timetables for mitigation of and adaptation to the consequences and impacts of climate change in Maryland
  • We Are Still In – group of more than 3,500 organizations, including jurisdictions, declaring their continued support for the Paris Climate Agreement
  • Under2 Coalition – group of more than 220 governments spanning 43 countries committing to keeping global temperature rises to well below 2°C

Other County Climate Change Resources

Whether you're a homeowner, renter, small business, or major corporation, there are steps you can take to save money and reduce carbon pollution. The following websites can help!