National Park Service

Understanding the Science of Climate Change Talking Points ? Impacts to the Pacific Islands (Natural Resource Report Nps / Nrpc / Ccrp / Nrr?2011/287) National Park Service January 2011 edition

This document is part of a series of bio-regional summaries that provide key scientific findings about climate change and impacts to protected areas. The information is intended to provide a basic understanding of the science of climate change, known and expected impacts to resources and visitor experience, and actions that can be taken to mitigate and adapt to change. The statements may be used to communicate with managers, frame interpretive programs, and answer general questions from the public and the media. They also provide helpful information to consider in developing sustainability strategies and long-term management plans. Following the Introduction are three major sections of the document: a Regional Section that provides information on changes to the Pacific Islands, a section outlining No Regrets Actions that can be taken now to mitigate and adapt to climate changes, and a general section on Global Climate Change.