The response to climate change can’t wait

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Esposito encouraged New York policymakers to support offshore wind initiatives, to shore up coastlines with re-established wetlands and bulkheads, elevate more homes and ensure that the region’s aquifer system is sustainable long term.

“For those people who are not concerned about [the effect of climate change on] drinking water, they should be con- cerned about the economic vulnerabilities of Long Island due to climate change,” she told Newsday.

The best news in North Hempstead’s survey came from its respondents.

Some 83% said they want to be part of the solution in a wide wide variety of actions. These included “reducing waste and increasing recycling/composting, sustainable landscaping, tree protection and plant- ing, renewable energy, creating a walkable/ bikable transit-oriented community, electric vehicles, green infrastructure, and resiliency measures.”

It appears the residents of North Hempstead have heard the message of climate change loud and clear.

What is now needed are elected officials who help make that happen. Sooner rather than later.