Connecticut

Legal Updates

June 3rd, 2011:

The Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection denied the petition for rule making. OCT is working with youth and our partners to take further action to achieve the necessary emission reductions in Connecticut. Please check periodically for updates on our next steps, and if you would like to get involved with the effort or if you have any questions, please contact us.

May 4, 2011:

Petition for rule making was filed against the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection.

Climate Change Impacts in Connecticut

The following is taken from the petition filed against the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection. Click the points below for additional information on each.

Since 1970, annual average temperatures in the Northeast region of the United States have increased by 2 degrees (Fahrenheit) in the summer, and twice as much in the winter. Temperatures are expected to experience continued warming, with projected additional increases of approximately 3 degrees in the spring and 4 degrees in the summer, fall and winter by the middle of the current century. By the end of the current century, without significant world-wide decreases in carbon emissions, it is projected that summer temperatures in the northeastern U.S. could rise as much as 6-14 degrees above historic averages, and as much as 8-12 degrees in the winter (US GCRP). In Storrs, Connecticut, average annual temperature in the last century has increased from 45.8 degrees to 48.2 degrees, and in the same length of time, precipitation has increased by 20%. This location is expected to see further increases in temperature and precipitation consistent with the rest of the Northeast region.

An increase in frequency of summer temperatures exceeding “extreme heat” conditions of over 100 degrees is expected as a result of continued climate change. By the end of the current century, it is estimated that locations in the southern area of the northeastern U.S., such as Hartford, will receive as many as 30 days per year exceeding 100 degrees (US EPA).

The impact of climate change on Connecticut plants and wildlife

Increased risk to Human Health related to climate change

The economic impacts of climate change in Connecticut

For more information on climate change in Connecticut: