Chicago prepares for climate change

New York Times : Chicago is preparing for a wetter, steamier future based on climate scientists’ predictions. Inspired by the Kyoto international treaty of 2006, then mayor Richard Daley initiated efforts to reduce carbon emissions and raise Chicago’s profile as an environmentally friendly town. Alleys, bike lanes, and parking spaces are being repaved with water-permeable materials; more vegetation is being planted to provide more shade, absorb carbon dioxide, sponge up excess water, and reduce energy use; plans for air conditioning all public schools are in the works; and thermal radar is being used to map the hottest spots to target for pavement removal and more vegetation. “Cities adapt or they go away,” said Aaron Durnbaugh, deputy commissioner of Chicago’s Department of Environment. “Climate change is happening in both real and dramatic ways.” Chicago is often called the Second City, but it is way out in front of most in terms of adaptation, writes Leslie Kaufman for the New York Times.