Climate Change

Very unusual things are happening this winter that's not normal for New Jersey

As sea levels rise due to climate change, Atlantic City leaders are planning to boost physical barriers instead of moving inland.

Commissioner of Environmental Protection Shawn LaTourette said Thursday that the state is not ready for the worsening effects of climate change and rising seas.

Requiring that new industrial and commercial boilers run on electricity, not fossil fuels, could raise operating costs by four to five times – not percent.

For one thing, changing the environmental footprint of mass transit was part of the last set of priorities, and is still included in the new list.

EmpowerNJ filed a petition six months ago demanding rulemaking. The DEP rejected the request last month.

Legislation on track to be considered in the new session would expand the focus of the rate counsel to also account for dealing with climate change.

The effects of Ida didn't come as a surprise or shock to New Jersey DEP Commissioner Shawn LaTourette, as he explained to those at the Ocean County Mayor's Association monthly meeting in Toms River.

The Barnegat Bay is a staple part of the Ocean County landscape and an important asset to the everyday living of those who reside and work here.

There are cases for concern across the board but ways of addressing them in the short and long term in New Jersey.