2018 Reports

Fort Lauderdale: Pioneering the Way toward a Sustainable Future

Torriente, Susanne

Fort Lauderdale has taken a proactive approach to climate adaptation by integrating sustainability, resilience, and community engagement into municipal planning. Following climate-related disasters like Hurricane Sandy, the city rebuilt infrastructure with long-term resilience in mind, implemented a citywide Sustainability Division, and trained employees as “Climate Ambassadors.” The city works collaboratively through the Southeast Florida Regional Climate Change Compact, developing adaptation strategies such as stormwater management, flood mitigation, and public engagement programs. Fort Lauderdale’s experience demonstrates how strong governance, cross-sector collaboration, and public participation can advance urban climate resilience and serve as a model for other coastal cities.