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.
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.
Challenges of Development and Policy
The deregulation of building policies, particularly under past governors, has allowed for unchecked development in vulnerable areas, contributing to the destructive impact of hurricanes. Developers have exploited these deregulations, often implementing inappropriate housing solutions that do not account for Florida's unique environmental conditions. The loss of natural barriers, such as mangroves and marshes, has further intensified the state's vulnerability to storms. To address these challenges, there is a pressing need for a strategic reevaluation of where and how development occurs, emphasizing the importance of sustainable and mindful rebuilding practices.
Florida’s two major hurricanes in the past month highlight how decades of deregulation and overdevelopment under Republican leadership have made the state increasingly vulnerable to climate change. After more than 30 years of living through Florida hurricanes, the writer Jeff VanderMeer believes a “managed retreat” is a necessary response to the growing frequency and intensity of storms.
Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com.
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