Latest Research

Report shows pathway to reducing household energy costs by 47%

Despite low utility rates, energy costs in Florida are steadily rising, straining over two million low- and moderate-income residents. Outdated housing and systems are causing discomfort and financial distress. Sudden spikes in utility bills due to market volatility and extreme weather events worsen the situation.

Hurricane Ian exposed the vulnerability of rural communities

Florida is no stranger to hurricanes. As we recover from Idalia, our researchers are examining the impact Hurricane Ian had on Florida’s rural communities, highlighting our state's need for adaptive resilience strategies

New report shows climate change will impact strawberry production in Florida

In 2022, the Florida legislature created the official designation of strawberry shortcake as the State Dessert. Key lime pie advocates may yet have a second chance to emerge victorious as important new research by Environmental Defense Fund and Two Degrees Adapt signals concern for growing strawberries in the Sunshine State due to climate change.

Extreme Ocean Temperatures Are Affecting Florida’s Coral Reef

Watch as Florida Director Dawn Shirreffs speaks with Nicole Besemer, Coral Scientist with NOAA to learn how extreme ocean temperatures are bleaching Florida's coral.

In the News

Florida the only state to turn down millions to lessen emissions, feds say

Tampa Bay Times

December 16, 2023

The state transportation department left $320 million on the table, saying it wouldn’t support the “continued politicization of our roadways.”

Plant City’s summer was record hot. What could that mean for strawberries?

Tampa Bay Times

November 29, 2023

“Basically, one of the things that’s needed for successful strawberry growth is you can’t have a number of days over 85 degrees,” said Dawn Shirreffs, the Environmental Defense Fund’s Florida director. “We refer to those days as ‘killing days.’”

Make sure Florida gets its fair share of federal energy-efficiency funding | Opinion

Sun Sentinel

November 14, 2023

When I founded the energy-services company Facillitee Inc. in 2014, I quickly realized that energy-efficiency technologies and solutions are continually evolving. To remain competitive, my team needed access to up-to-date resources and training, but we faced limitations in terms of time and capital.