While we are used to the occasional short heat wave in Seattle, this most recent one has certainly been longer than usual and made worse by the smoke from the British Columbia wildfires. Unfortunately, our changing climate means we can expect more extreme heat events like these along with a greater risk of wildfires as well. How will we handle these changes in the future?
Photo Source: accuweather.com
OSE recently released the City’s climate preparedness strategy—Preparing for Climate Change —which highlights the range of impacts we expect to see as a result of climate change, including increased heat and flooding, and lays out the actions we will take as a result.
One of the most important things we can do to reduce the impacts of climate change is to reduce our carbon footprint. By using clean and carbon neutral electricity to heat our homes rather than fossil fuels, taking the bus instead of driving, and driving electric when we have to drive, we can all do our part to reduce the impacts of climate change.
Now is a great time to switch out oil or gas heat to a clean, carbon neutral electric heat pump which will also provide air conditioning. The City of Seattle offers up to $2,000 in rebates when you ditch dirty oil and switch to a heat pump. Additionally, if you heat your home with inefficient electric baseboards or an electric furnace, consider going with an electric heat pump and take advantage of Seattle City Light’s rebate.