Climate Change Effects on Natural Resources FOR 797, Fall 2007 John Stella,
[email protected] This seminar examined the evidence of global climate change, integrating scientific analyses and their perceptions in the media. Weekly class discussions focused on different physical, biological, Projected number of snow-covered days (Image: Union of Concerned Scientists) and social facets of the climate change story. Readings were drawn from primary climate change research (Nature, Science), global and regional analyses (IPCC 4th Assessment Report, New England Regional Assessment), news accounts, and the popular science literature (e.g. Tim Flannery’s The Weather Makers). For the final ‘White Paper’, students summarized the state of knowledge about a particular area, the perception of the issue in the media and popular literature, and the implications for policymakers. (Image: IPCC 2007) Muir Glacier, Alaska, 1941 and 2004 (Images: William Field, Bruce Molnia, USGS) FOR 797 Climate Change Effects on Natural Resources, Fall 2007 Final White Papers Table of Contents Chapter Subject Area Author Page 1 Overview: the physical science basis Katherina Searing 3 2 Paleoclimate and physical changes to the Matt Distler 10 atmosphere 3 Changes to the oceans Kacie Gehl 15 4 Changes to the cryosphere (snow, ice and frozen Brandon Murphy 19 ground) 5 Global and regional climate models Anna Lumsden 26 6 Impacts to freshwater resources Nidhi Pasi 31 7 Carbon sinks and sequestration Ken Hubbard 34 8 Impacts to coastal regions Juliette Smith 38 9 Effects on biodiversity and species ranges Lisa Giencke 43 10 Effects on species’ phenology Laura Heath 47 11 Human health, crop yields and food production Judy Crawford 52 12 Media perceptions of climate change: the Northeast Kristin Cleveland 57 case study 13 Mitigation measures Tony Eallonardo 62 INTRODUCTION Overview: the physical science Climate change is an extremely basis and expected impacts complex issue.