I took the morning off to reflect and spend some time doing what I love…fly fishing for tailing redfish here in Charleston.
If you’re not familiar, the moon phase determines the height of our tides, and during full moon and new moon phases, our tides rise an extra foot or so, which we call flood tides, and when they do, redfish swim up on the salt marsh flats and you can see their tails waving out of the water as they eat crabs, shrimp, and other baits.
Moon phases, flood tides and tailing redfish are a subtle reminder that everything in nature is interconnected, and just as a crab, a redfish, and a salt marsh ecosystem are connected, so are our businesses and the planet.
I am honored and grateful to get to guide my clients on their sustainability journey by helping them measure and improve the sustainability performance of their operations, products, and packaging.
You may be wondering why your company should measure and improve its sustainability performance, and there is a real business case for sustainability, such as: reduced costs, enhanced reputation, and increased customer loyalty, but Charleston is also particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change due to its low-lying coastal geography. The key impacts include:
- Sea Level Rise: Charleston is experiencing significant sea level rise, which has led to more frequent and severe coastal flooding. The city’s elevation is only a few feet above sea level, making it especially susceptible to even minor increases in sea level. Tidal flooding, often referred to as “nuisance flooding,” has become more common and is expected to worsen.
- Increased Storm Intensity: Climate change is leading to more intense hurricanes and tropical storms in the Atlantic. Charleston is at risk of stronger and more destructive storms, which can lead to devastating storm surges, high winds, and heavy rainfall.
- Erosion and Habitat Loss: The combination of rising sea levels and increased storm intensity is accelerating coastal erosion. This not only affects the beaches and barrier islands but also leads to the loss of critical habitats like marshes and wetlands that act as natural buffers against storms and flooding.
- Economic Impact: The tourism industry, which is vital to Charleston’s economy, could be significantly affected by climate change. Rising sea levels and more frequent flooding could damage historic sites, reduce beach areas, and deter visitors. Additionally, the cost of maintaining and upgrading infrastructure to cope with climate impacts will be substantial.
- Impact on Housing and Real Estate: Charleston’s real estate market is already feeling the effects of climate change, with properties in flood-prone areas facing declining values. Insurance premiums are also rising, making it more expensive to own property in vulnerable areas.
Charleston is prone to the effects of climate change, however, the challenges posed by climate change will require ongoing mitigation and adaptation efforts. That’s why I am hosting the Emerger Strategies Sustainability Boot Camp every Friday in September, and you’ll learn the business case for sustainability, measure your carbon footprint, and learn how to reduce your company’s carbon footprint. If your company would like to sign up, please email: rcrawford@emergerstrategies.com
Grateful to call the Lowcountry home, and let’s protect what we love, together!
