Independent Student Newspaper Since 1969

The Badger Herald

Independent Student Newspaper Since 1969

The Badger Herald

Independent Student Newspaper Since 1969

The Badger Herald

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Study shows global warming could impact economy

While the results of climate change might not be noticeable in the short run, a recent report is attempting to show how climate change could potentially have negative effects on the economies of every state in America. 

The American Security Project, a non-profit, bipartisan research organization focusing on national security issues, published reports for each state detailing specific effects of climate change on local economies. Its report for Wisconsin focused on consequences for the forestry, agriculture and tourism industries.

Any potential damages could reduce Wisconsin’s $18 billion forestry industry and $9
billion in agricultural commodities. The report estimates a $6.2 billion
decrease in Wisconsin’s gross domestic product and a loss of 39,000
jobs by 2050 unless efforts are taken to mitigate the effects of climate
change.

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According to the report, temperatures in Wisconsin are projected to rise around 6 to 11 degrees Fahrenheit in winter and 8 to 18 degrees Fahrenheit in summer. This temperature rise could increase winter precipitation by about 15 to 30 percent and decrease summer precipitation by about 20 percent.

These shifts in precipitation, combined with possible increases in severe weather conditions such as rainstorms and floods, could result in a recession of northern forests, crop failure and damage to Wisconsin’s ecosystems, the report said.

But an investment in clean energy could fight against the current of any potential damages of climate change. The report said an investment in clean energy could lead to $2.8 billion in investment revenue and create 35,000 jobs.

Rep. Brett Hulsey, D-Madison, said he is currently working on
legislation with Sen. Fred Risser, D-Madison, and Rep. Mark Pocan,
D-Madison, to promote clean energy and create jobs.

The Jobs Energy and Tax Savings Act would increase the investment in
state facilities’ energy efficiency over the next biennium by $200
million. Hulsey said the bill would create 2,000 jobs and reduce
environmental impact.

“Climate change is probably the most preeminent environmental issue of our time,” Hulsey said.

University of Wisconsin botany professor Don Waller said climate change has increased the frequency and intensity of natural disasters, including tornadoes in Wisconsin.

Waller added climate change has an effect on Wisconsin forests, including limited varieties and spread of species because of changes in weather, as well as an increase in the deer population caused by milder winters.

In addition to foresting concerns, Waller said sustainable energy is another important factor in slowing the economic burden of climate change on the state.

“We’re in a shifting economic climate,” Waller said. “That is to say, it’s not just the weather that’s changing, it’s the economic weather too.”

Waller said the oil industry is realizing the need to shift away from fossil fuel dependence, and Americans are slow to embrace the change.

Environmental advocacy group Clean Wisconsin spokesperson Katy Walter said it is important for Wisconsin to shift away from nonrenewable energy sources because of the state’s lack of fossil fuels.

Walter said fossil fuels such as oil and coal are nonexistent in Wisconsin, forcing the state to import $18 billion worth of fuels each year.

“This money, if we invest it into clean energy, that’s all the more money invested in our economy here in Wisconsin,” Walter said. “There’s a lot of potential here in Wisconsin, but currently we’re not really utilizing it.”

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