Scientists Prepare for Climate Change and its Risks with New Studies

It's more important than ever to prepare for climate change. Already, our environment has been altered due to the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation and large-scale agriculture. Now, scientists have urged the development of studies needed to manage climate risks and capitalize on unexpected opportunities.

"Adapting to an evolving climate is going to be required in every sector of society, in every region of the globe," said Richard Moss, one of the researchers, in a news release. "We need to get going, to provide integrated science if we are going to meet the challenge."

In this particular study, the researchers offer suggestions for the foundations of the research necessary to better understand climate change. They also suggest measures to establish it. More specifically, they point out that climate preparedness research needs to integrate social and climate science, engineering and other disciplines. It prepares for impacts by determining who and what are most vulnerable to changes and considering ways to adapt.

"Science for adaptation starts with understanding decision-making processes and information needs, determining where the vulnerabilities are, and then moves to climate modeling," said Moss. "A final step tracks whether adaptation is effective."

There are currently four challenges when it comes to adapting and preparing for climate change. Nations will have to understand what information is needed to make decisions about adapting to climate change, identify vulnerabilities in society, the economy and the environment, improve forecasts and climate models and provide technology and policy options for adapting.

"This research is motivated by a practical challenge, ensuring reliable water supplies," said Moss. "Among the scientific advances that will be required is better integration of weather and climate models to improve decadal climate information to help people plan."

This particular focus on problem-solving could open up new sources of funding. It can also allow scientists to create better options for policy makers that are trying to decide what to do when it comes to climate change. As the environment shifts, preparing future studies is crucial and necessary for mitigating the impacts of climate change.

The findings are published in the journal Science.