The Government Accountability Office (GAO) issued a report on the economic
impact of climate change, analyzing 30 existing studies and economic analyses
from various sectors such as agriculture, health, energy, labor and crime. The
report concluded climate change could cost U.S. agriculture up to $9.2 billion
in crop yields between 2020 and 2039 if greenhouse gasses aren’t reduced.
While an increase in carbon dioxide in the atmosphere would
increase the rate of photosynthesis and spur faster crop growth, decreased crop
yields would result from poor soil health, water scarcity, a proliferation of
pests, extreme weather and wildfires. Pests thrive in warmer conditions and
can move into new areas where it was previously too cold.
The report recommended the White House "should use
information on the potential economic effects of climate change to help
identify significant climate risks facing the federal government and craft
appropriate federal responses. Such responses could include establishing a
strategy to identify, prioritize, and guide federal investments to enhance
resilience against future disasters."
The report found that extreme weather and wildfires have
cost the federal government $350 billion over the past 10 years. Additionally,
crop and flood insurance have cost $90 billion.
A slew of recent hurricane relief bills assisting victims
in Texas, Florida and Puerto Rico are the latest example of the government
spending billions on disaster relief while also trying to rein in spending.
NAAA will also continue to advocate for aerial application research funding
during this critical time when resources have the potential to be diverted for
other priorities. NAAA will also keep members informed of any climate change
polices that affect the industry.
 issued a report on the economic
impact of climate change, analyzing 30 existing studies and economic analyses
from various sectors such as agriculture, health, energy, labor and crime. The
report concluded climate change could cost U.S. agriculture up to $9.2 billion
in crop yields between 2020 and 2039 if greenhouse gasses aren’t reduced.){kind=small}
