By RFD Radio
CHAMPAIGN – The Institute of Government and Public Affairs at the University of Illinois is a non-partisan think tank that evaluates policy recommendations.
One area they have looked at is preparing for climate change in the state. Professor Don Fullerton said the institute takes the predictions made by climate scientists and evaluate the cost-benefit impact of mitigation proposals.
“We don’t make recommendations,” Fullerton said. “We are not on one side of the issue or the other. We are trying to provide additional objective information for all policymakers and voters to be able to decide.”
Since 1950 average precipitation is up by 20 percent mostly during heavier rainfall events from March through June. Hot and dry weather is becoming more common in July and August.
Fullerton said part of the job of the institute is to inform the public about current and future climate impact so an informed public can weigh in on policy initiatives.
Everything from improved, heat tolerant crops to flood control, water storage for future irrigation and alternative energy sources are evaluated.
For information on policy analysis regarding climate change, the institute publishes its research online.
