Fact Sheet
Climate Adaptation: Wildfires Fact Sheet
November 5, 2024
Issue Area
Climate Adaptation
Overview
As carbon dioxide levels continue to climb, the impacts of climate change are worsening rapidly. Record drought and wildfires, stronger storms, unpredictable snowpack, heatwaves, and flooding are becoming the norm across the nation. States are witnessing dramatic changes to land cover, fish and wildlife habitat, water systems, human welfare, agriculture, and outdoor recreation opportunities because of climate change.
There are several types of tools that states can employ for climate adaptation, including: (1) comprehensive plans and approaches to adaptation; (2) regulatory tools such as building codes, growth plans, setbacks, and buffers; (3) spending tools such as capital improvements and land acquisition; and (4) tax and market-based strategies. Overall, states can improve climate adaptation efforts by assessing their own climate impacts and putting policies in place to adapt to the changes that are occurring.
Key Facts
Natural adaptation solutions to climate change are often the cheapest, most effective, most socially acceptable, and provide the most benefits. These include reforestation, riparian buffers, and healthy soil practices.
Adaptation is critical for disaster preparation and response. There were 23 climate events exceeding $115 billion in damages in 2025 alone.
Protection and creation of large landscapes and wildlife corridors is critical to protect biodiversity in the face of the climate crisis.
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