The 20th century saw the average temperature in the New York metropolitan region increase by 2oF, and the Arctic ice cap shrink at a rate that alarms most experts in the field. Scientific models indicate that this warming trend will continue in the 21st century. Even small changes in climate can alter the environmental baseline under which cities plan and operate. Cities are radical human alterations of the natural landscape, and with 50% of the world population now living in urban areas like New York City, the global urban community must analyze and adapt to the very climate change they are creating. The Climate Change and Cities Project, sponsored by the CUNY Institute for Sustainable Cities will examine natural climate conditions, current conditions as influenced by urban living and prospects for the future. Climate change research generally focuses on one of two principles; adaptation (introducing coping systems and strategies in a city impacted by climate change), and mitigation (stopping the climate from changing). Recognizing that overall change in the urban community can come slowly, the goal of this project is to analyze current adaptation strategies, such as green roofing and urban cooling centers, and introduce them to the urban community. With effective and proactive adaptation strategies in place, cities can stave off the potentially catastrophic economic and health impacts of global warming, while buying much needed time for successful mitigation strategies to be identified, tested, and implemented.  

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