“The true economic impact of climate change is fraught with hidden costs...”

CIER - Center for Integrative Environmental Research:

The direct costs of not taking on the challenges posed by climate change are often neglected – and typically not calculated. The indirect effects are considered even less frequently, yet can be substantial. The effects will be felt by the entire nation:

• All sectors of the economy will be affected.

• Essential infrastructures for reliable services and high standards of living and health (such as water supply and water treatment) will be impacted.

• Ecosystems, on which quality of life relies (such as forests, rivers and lakes), will suffer.

This study presents an overview of climate impacts on various economic sectors in the US, organized by region.

Five Key Lessons

1. Economic impacts of climate change will occur throughout the country.
2. Economic impacts will be unevenly distributed across regions and within the economy and society.
3. Negative climate impacts will outweigh benefits for most sectors that provide essential goods and services to society.
4. Climate change impacts will place immense strains on public sector budgets.
5. Secondary effects of climate impacts can include higher prices, reduced income and job losses