NACW 2019 Plenary Session: Climate Risk and Responsibility

With each passing year, we have seen a continual increase in climate-related risks and extreme climate events. More severe and frequent fires, intense hurricanes, droughts and flooding are all becoming the new norm. In 2018, the western US experienced its deadliest and most destructive wildfire season on record, and many were looking at whom to blame for the fires. What does the future look like for these intensifying risks and what actions can we implement to adapt to these changes? The question is often asked “Who is responsible?” but is this even a fair question in a world changing due to our collective actions? What mitigation actions can be taken to minimize the most adverse impacts? Experts in this session will tackle these complex questions.

Moderator:
Sean Hecht, UCLA School of Law

Speakers:
Hon. Ricardo Lara, California Insurance Commissioner
Annie Notthoff, NRDC
Jerry Schubel, Aquarium of the Pacific
Chris Thompson, SCE