No Doubt About Climate Change and Its Implications for Water Suppliers

Abstract

The fourth assessment report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, “Climate Change 2007,” provides an objective, authoritative assessment of the reality of this phenomenon. The authors provide a brief review of some statements within the report that pertain to water resources. The changes implied are broadly predictable in terms of how they will affect natural processes and in terms of the most logical actions water suppliers can take to adapt their water resource management plans. Climate change is an undeniable reality that is already upon us. It will have material effects on water resources management within the limits of current planning horizons. Because climate change processes will change the quantity and quality of water that is available at any given place and time, plans based solely on historical records are likely to be vulnerable to these changes. The effects are complex, but understandable, and adaptable measures can be incorporated into ongoing planning efforts.