Climate change in the human environment: Indicators and impacts from the Fourth National Climate Assessment

The Fourth National Climate Assessment (NCA4) is the most comprehensive report to date assessing climate change science, impacts, risks, and adaptation in the United States. The 1,500 page report covers a breadth of topics, ranging from foundational physical science to climate change response options. Here we present information on indicators and impacts of climate change in the human environment featured in NCA4 Volume II, focusing on: air quality, forest disturbance and wildfire, energy systems, and water resources. Observations, trends, and impacts of these aspects of our changing climate will be discussed, along with implications for the future. Implications: People of the United States are already being affected by our changing climate. Information on observed changes and impacts that affect human welfare and society, along with projections for the future, is highly valuable for informing decision-makers, including utility managers, emergency planners, and other stakeholders, about climate risk assessment, adaptation, and mitigation options.