OPINION: Congress should pass landmark climate adaptation bill

We would need to blindfold ourselves to believe our state is not in climate danger. Rapid environmental shifts impact virtually every aspect of our lives, from food access to housing security and public health. Alaska’s leaders in Washington, D.C., have the opportunity to pass the National Climate Adaptation and Resilience Strategy (NCARS) Act and ensure the resilience of our sacred land.

Although all states struggle with the crisis, Alaska’s climate issues are somewhat unique to the Northern ecosystems and influential on lives in the Lower 48. The disappearance of Arctic ice and rising sea levels are the main reasons for the land loss of coastal and island territories. The Arctic no longer serves as “an effective global air conditioner,” as put by the World Wildlife Fund. Changing temperatures and uneven rainfall patterns impact our ability to sustain food chains and economies.

A unique opportunity to make a difference

The bipartisan-led NCARS Act provides a robust foundation for climate adaptation and resilience. If passed, the bill will establish a national resilience strategy and implementation plan in cooperation with all levels of government and non-profit partners. The legislation would establish the position of chief resilience officer in the White House, enhance interagency collaboration, and bolster the pipeline of resources to communities in need. This bill recognizes the dangers of climate change and presents a primer for future investments.

Securing climate resilience needs to be our decision-makers’ moral priority. Our leaders must pass legislation that provides safety for everyone. Sen. Lisa Murkowski, one of the senators who introduced the bill, understands the importance of keeping Alaskans safe, especially those historically underserved. It would be refreshing to see such an ambitious bill passed in a session that has so far been severely unproductive.

Climate adaptation provides security for people who do not have the luxury of looking away and pretending their future is unconditionally prosperous. Indigenous people in rural towns like Shishmaref and Shaktoolik are risking their livelihoods due to coastal erosion and flooding. Our decision-makers must include Indigenous communities in their plans for Alaska’s future.

Fiscally responsible and climate-sensitive

At a time when Washington politicians are increasingly concerned about federal spending, the NCARS Act provides an opportunity to pass fiscally responsible legislation. In the last three years, climate disasters cost the U.S. $431.4 billion and more than 1,600 lives. We must sober up and invest in communities that cannot wait longer for tangible interventions.

Sens. Murkowski and Dan Sullivan, as well as Rep. Mary Peltola, have a unique chance to ensure the passage of the NCARS Act this Congress session. Together, they can bring common sense back to lawmaking and provide sustainable solutions for all Alaskans.

Jus Tavcar is a graduate student of Arctic and Northern Studies at the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

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