Climate change is trapping Texans in an arid ‘fortress of solitude,’ expert says

[Social Media]

 

Texas is facing a daunting climate and development dilemma as it progresses further into the 21st century, according to Jay Banner, a geologist at the University of Texas at Austin. Speaking at South By Southwest, Austin's renowned technology and culture event, Banner highlighted the unique challenges Texas confronts due to its size and geography.

 

Banner emphasized that Texas experiences a combination of climate challenges more intensely than any other place. He pointed out that approximately 40 percent of homes in the United States are at extreme risk from climate change, including heat, wind, and air quality issues. This poses a significant threat to American home values, with nearly $20 trillion potentially at risk, particularly in cities with high property values.

 

However, Texas faces additional challenges related to water and heat. With the state's population projected to nearly double by 2070, there will be a substantial increase in water demand from both residents and industries. At the same time, rising temperatures, fueled by fossil fuel emissions, are leading to more frequent and intense heatwaves, exacerbating drought conditions and reducing water availability.

 

This presents a paradoxical situation where a growing population demands more water, while climate change reduces its availability. Banner described a future where outdoor workers face increasingly harsh conditions due to rising temperatures, while indoor workers may find themselves isolated in climate-controlled environments, disconnected from nature.

 

To address these challenges, Banner suggested several adaptation strategies. He emphasized the importance of investing in renewable energy and reducing impervious surfaces to mitigate heat buildup in urban areas. Additionally, he advocated for rainwater harvesting and greywater reuse to alleviate water shortages, particularly in arid regions like Texas.

 

While implementing these measures may require significant investment and infrastructure upgrades, Banner emphasized the need for collective action and optimism about the future. He stressed that individual solutions alone are insufficient to address the scale of the challenges posed by climate change and population growth in Texas.

 

As Texas grapples with its climate and development paradox, Banner's message underscores the importance of proactive measures and collaborative efforts to build a more resilient and sustainable future for the state.

 

15.03.24

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[thaibeachlovers]

1 hour ago, Social Media said:

This presents a paradoxical situation where a growing population demands more water, while climate change reduces its availability.

Nonsense.

 

If an arid climate reduced water availability Riyadh would not exist.

The Saudis desalinate sea water and pump it through massive pipes. Texas is, I believe, located by the sea, and apparently it is quite sunny there.

If there is a water shortage, build solar powered desalination plants. That's not hard to understand, is it?

 

Just more fearmongering by the usual suspects IMO.

[Chomper Higgot]

30 minutes ago, thaibeachlovers said:

Nonsense.

 

If an arid climate reduced water availability Riyadh would not exist.

The Saudis desalinate sea water and pump it through massive pipes. Texas is, I believe, located by the sea, and apparently it is quite sunny there.

If there is a water shortage, build solar powered desalination plants. That's not hard to understand, is it?

 

Just more fearmongering by the usual suspects IMO.

Yes the Saudis do desalinate water.

 

They burn energy to do so, lots of energy.

 

It’s a very expensive means to obtain potable water, and adds to greenhouse gas production.

Oh, I forgot, you don’t do science.