National Wildlife Federation works where people live - in cities and towns - to promote wildlife-friendly and climate-smart approaches to urban sustainability. With more than 80 percent of the US population residing in urban areas, it is crucial to begin preparations for the effects of climate change.
Climate change is intensifying existing stresses on wildlife and their habitats and amplifying natural hazards that threaten people and property. The Climate-Smart Communities program helps cities and towns use nature-based approaches to prepare themselves for the impacts of climate change in ways that support people, wildlife, and habitat.
- Are ready to meet new challenge presented by climate change.
- Use nature-based approaches to prepare for the impacts of climate change in ways that support people, wildlife, and habitats.
- Refrain from approaches that are maladaptive for wildlife.
- Prepare for extreme weather such as heat waves, drought, water shortages, flooding, sea level rise, wind storms, tornados, hurricanes, economic losses, and more.
NWF is working with a set of communities to better understand their adaptation needs, challenges, and to generate early examples of successful nature-based adaptation approaches. We are helping communities develop and share resources that can be used by a broader audience. Please contact us if you would like more information about getting involved with this new program.
Download the Climate-Smart Communities program factsheet
More About Climate Smart Communities