FEMA adapts to new challenges as the climate changes. FEMA is addressing climate change by focusing on the environment.
Kristin Fontenot, Director of the Office of Environmental Planning and Historic Preservation is one of the leaders in these efforts.
Fontenot states that the office’s priority is to help communities build resilience by protecting the land. They ensure that FEMA grants and programs are sensitive to the historic and cultural heritage and environmental resources of communities when they help them rebuild resilience or recover from disasters.
The office reviewed over 22,000 Public Assistance projects in order to find ways to reduce or minimize the impact on environmental and cultural resources. They reached out to representatives from 20 states to mobilize the protection of historic and cultural resources during 17 major natural disasters. They were able to mobilize the protection of cultural and historic resources during 17 major disasters by reaching out to representatives across 20 states. Heritage Emergency National Task ForceIn 2021, mobilized to help protect cultural resources in all major disasters.
She stated that historic preservation is a key part of their efforts and adds to the challenges.
She stated that towns and cities located in areas that are likely to be affected by floods and other natural disasters will have important histories. These history and artifacts are part of what makes America special. It is difficult to understate the complexity of these aspects of our work when we deal with the climate crisis.
Fontenot believes that communities will continue to face new problems and that FEMA must help these communities rise to the occasion.
Fontenot stated that FEMA has just released a plan to guide agency actions over the next five years. Climate change and equity are now the agency’s top priorities. Fontenot sees this as a serious commitment to Environmental Justice in FEMA’s actions. It is vital that FEMAs program delivery incorporates environmental justice and injustice. Environmental Justice means that we avoid adverse human health and environmental effects on low-income or minority populations.
FEMA, like all federal agencies must consider the effects of its actions on cultural or environmental resources. FEMA’s mission delivery is governed by a number of laws. Here’s an example:
- Environmental AssessmentsThese assessments are made under the National Environmental Policy Act, (NEPA), to determine whether significant environmental impacts will result from a FEMA or FEMA funded action.
- Unified Federal Reviews (UFR).All federally funded projects have to undergo an environmental reviewThe UFR process requires agencies working together to reduce complexity in those reviews after a disaster recovery.
- Guidelines for FEMA grants.FEMA grants are used to protect and enhance cultural and natural resources. Certain grants require that they comply with all applicable environmental preservation laws and regulations.
Fontenot explains that there are many ways for your community to get involved in protecting the environment. This includes being aware of the cultural and environmental resources in your area and knowing how you can protect them. She also said that everyone can play an important role in combating climate change.
She said that every action counts. Participating in your local recycling program, helping to curb pollution and trash, as well as getting involved with local organizations that help reduce environmental justice and environmental hazards in your community or neighborhood.
FEMA’s climate-related programs and initiatives are detailed in the report FEMA Resources for Climate Resilience.