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The Opinions

We Need a ‘Managed Retreat’ In Florida

Oct 16, 2024
Jeff VanderMeer, a celebrated novelist who has lived in Florida for over 30 years, dives deep into the repercussions of climate change on his home state. He discusses how deregulation and overdevelopment have left Florida vulnerable, especially highlighted by recent hurricanes. VanderMeer advocates for a 'managed retreat' strategy to mitigate future storms and emphasizes the necessity of sustainable practices to protect Florida's unique ecosystems. His insights spark a conversation about reimagining resilience in the face of natural disasters.
07:29

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Quick takeaways

  • The recent hurricanes in Florida reveal the critical consequences of decades of deregulation and overdevelopment in increasing the state's vulnerability to climate change.
  • Writer Jeff VanderMeer advocates for a strategic 'managed retreat' approach to address the escalating frequency and intensity of storms impacting Florida communities.

Deep dives

Impact of Hurricanes on Florida

Florida has recently faced significant devastation due to two hurricanes occurring within a month, highlighting the increasing frequency and power of such storms. The financial toll from Hurricane Milton, exceeding $100 billion, illustrates the escalating damage that natural disasters are inflicting on the region. With hurricanes making landfall farther inland, many communities are experiencing unexpected flooding, exacerbating the overall crisis. This situation evokes feelings of grief, as policymakers are criticized for neglecting preventative measures that could have mitigated the damage.

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