Survey: Erosion, Bigger Storms Top Climate Change Concerns

CHATHAM – Erosion, the possibility of a natural disaster and preservation of drinking water resources were the top concerns of recent surveys of residents by the Chatham Climate Action Network and the town’s energy and climate action committee.

 The group received nearly 300 replies to the two surveys, one on community resilience and the other on energy. The results show that local residents believe climate change is real, are well aware of the risks, and are ready to support town action to bolster resilience, according to a report issued by the two groups.

 “The findings highlight both Chatham’s strong foundation in its residents’ commitment to resilience and efficiency and the critical areas that require strategic focus, particularly around coastal protection and transitioning away from fossil fuels,” the report reads.

 Given the town’s location at the elbow of Cape Cod — surrounded by water on three sides — it isn’t surprising that residents are aware of the effects of climate change on the coastal environment. With its dynamic barrier beaches, Chatham has long dealt with erosion, even before climate change began making it more dire and less predictable.

 In the survey’s first part, which deals with climate risk awareness and resilience support, respondents were asked to identify their top three concerns. Regarding risk related to rising ocean temperatures, 65 percent cited coastal erosion, 45 percent hurricanes and tropical storms, 41 percent coastal or shoreline flooding, 39 percent high wind/northeaster damage, 31 percent habitat loss, and 29 percent damage to fisheries.

 Regarding rising air temperatures, 55 percent named drought as their biggest concern, with 53 percent citing degrading ecosystems, 33 percent extreme winter storms, 26 percent threats to human health, 16 percent wildfires, and 14 percent inland flooding.

 A total of 82 percent also reported being extremely or somewhat concerned about the likelihood of a natural disaster impacting the town in the next five to 10 years. Just 13 to 14 percent expressed no concern about ocean or temperature risks, according to the report.

 Strong support was expressed for municipal action to address climate change. Respondents were “likely to support” declining drinking water supply/quality (81 percent); shoreline management strategies (79 percent); new or improved regulatory measures (69 percent); planting shade trees (69 percent); educating the public and real estate professionals (68 percent); performing neighborhood risk assessments (67 percent); and providing more emergency preparedness announcements (67 percent).

 Additionally, 30 percent supported funding initiatives through local taxes or fees, while 21 percent were opposed and 45 percent replied “maybe.” That suggests an openness to local funding if the benefits are clearly articulated, the report reads.

 Asked what actions respondents are taking to prepare for situations like those noted above, 48 percent said they are weatherproofing their properties; 43 percent are buying generators; 29 percent are participating in educational activities; 26 percent are maintaining emergency response kits; and 18 percent are buying flood insurance.

 The second part of the survey asked respondents about energy efficiency and transition, with results showing a “high baseline of awareness and a willingness to implement changes,” according to the report, “but also a continued reliance on fossil fuels.”

 Most residents were aware of MassSave programs (83 percent), and 45 percent had or planned to have a home energy assessment. Seventy-four percent implemented all or most recommended actions from an assessment.

 Three-quarters of respondents heat their homes with natural gas, while 25 percent have mini-split heat pumps, 19 percent have central heat pumps, 9 percent use baseboard electric heat and only 10 percent use oil.

 According to the survey, 28 percent of respondents reported having solar panels on their homes; 79 percent said the panels supply all or more than their electricity needs. Those who reported not having solar cited roof orientation or trees (30 percent), the expense (27 percent) or the look (20 percent) as the reason. Eleven percent said they didn’t know enough about solar energy to make a decision; that indicates an opportunity to provide more education, the report suggests.

 Eighty-seven percent of respondents own gas or diesel powered vehicles, while 21 percent have non-plug-in hybrids, 13 percent have all-electric and 7 percent have plug-in hybrids. Many indicated they’d move away from gas-powered vehicles with their next purchase. Sixty-two percent said they’d buy a plug-in hybrid or all-electric vehicle, while 32 percent said they’d consider a non-plug-in hybrid. Half said they’d purchase another gas or diesel vehicle.

 Chatham citizens are engaged and concerned, the report concludes, and are willing to consider solutions, even if it means higher taxes or fees, especially when it comes to coastal protection, shoreline and drinking water protection. Residents are taking steps to reduce energy use and are aware of programs that help with that goal. Support for new regulations and interest in heat pumps and electric vehicles indicates the town is “well-positioned to implement targeted programs that tie climate resilience to economic benefits,” the report reads.

 “These results will help the town identify opportunities for outreach, education, incentives and programs that support residents in evaluating the transition to cleaner, more efficient energy options,” it concludes.