TheReview_Nov_Dec_2021_FlipBook

THE PUSH AND PULL OF CLIMATE CHANGE By Beth Gibbons and Susan Ekoh

B y now you have likely watched a news segment, read an article, or viewed an infographic that is declaring the Great Lakes region to be the climate haven of the future. In each case, these media clips—which range from dour and serious to tongue in cheek—propose that within the next century, throngs of people will be moving to Michigan to escape climate change impacts like sea level rise, drought, fires, and hurricanes that are wreaking havoc across the rest of the country. In fact, our northern climate, distance frommarine coasts, and abundant water suggest there is a lot of opportunity for Michigan and the whole Great Lakes region in a changing climate future. Equally, declining populations in parts of the Great Lakes region present opportunities for climate in-migration. In-migration offers a pathway for the labor force needs to be met, sustaining economic growth and development of the region. At the same time, there is work to do to ensure that our communities are prepared to capture this potential influx of population and potential change in industries coming into our state and region.

In the spring of 2020, the American Society of Adaptation Professionals (ASAP) began working with partners across the Great Lakes to explore what’s needed to prepare the region to receive climate migrants. This work is bringing together diverse voices and perspectives—from demographers and climatologists to natural resource managers and community-based organizations—and laying the foundations for socially just, environmentally sound, and climate prepared growth in the region. “…in order for us to be prepared to receive climate migrants and new businesses, our state needs to take rapid action to prepare for the impacts of climate change…”

14 THE REVIEW

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021