The impacts of climate change
Scientists agree that the Earth has been getting warmer over the last century due to human activities that require burning fossil fuels (oil, gas, and coal).
Burning fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide. The carbon dioxide becomes trapped in the atmosphere (greenhouse gases) and increases the planet's temperature. As the Earth's climate continues to warm the results can have big impacts on the environment.
Tracking greenhouse gases
As the climate changes and temperatures climb, Washington faces serious impacts to its snowpack, infrastructure, and water supplies. Protecting our state's fish, farms, and communities from the impacts of climate change is a priority for us. We're tracking greenhouse gases and implementing policies that reduce these harmful pollutants. Learn more about the state's emissions by reading our emissions inventory reports and tracking maps.