Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg warned on CBS Sunday that the effects of climate change are "already upon us" and are having a significant impact on the transportation industry.
Buttigieg pointed to recent extreme weather events, such as heat waves and hurricanes, that have disrupted transportation systems. He also noted that studies have shown that climate change is leading to increased turbulence, which can be dangerous for air travel.
"Our infrastructure must evolve," Buttigieg said. "This is all about making sure that we stay ahead of the curve, keeping aviation as safe as it is."
Transportation disruptions due to extreme weather
- Heat waves have caused cables to melt on transit systems in the Pacific Northwest.
- Hurricane seasons are becoming more extreme, leading to flooding and damage to roads and bridges.
- Increased turbulence is a hazard for air travel, and studies have shown that climate change is contributing to this increase.
| Date | Airline | Route | Casualties |
|---|---|---|---|
| May 5, 2024 | Singapore Airlines | Singapore to JFK International Airport | 1 dead, 71 injured |
| May 27, 2024 | Qatar Airways | Doha to Dublin | 12 injured |
Need for adaptation and mitigation policies
Buttigieg's comments come amid a growing chorus of voices calling for action on climate change. A sweeping federal report released last November found that the effects of climate change are already being felt across the United States, and called for transformational adaptation policies and steep emissions cuts.
"Our climate is evolving," Buttigieg said. "Our policies and our technology and our infrastructure have to evolve accordingly, too."
Transportation is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, and Buttigieg said that reducing emissions will be a key part of mitigating the effects of climate change on transportation. He also stressed the need to invest in resilient infrastructure that can withstand the impacts of extreme weather.
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