Articles tagged with Climate Change Adaptation
The 2017 Climate Science Special Report details past, current and projected changes to the climate, including increased atmospheric and ocean temperatures, melting glaciers, and rising sea levels. Alaska climatologist John Walsh is a contributing author and can provide insights on recent U.S. climate change in the global context.
A recent study by QUT-led researchers found that only 21% of Australia's tourism strategies mention climate change, with most simply acknowledging it as an issue. The study suggests that the industry has significant room to improve and step up action on addressing climate change.
Researchers analyzed archaeological and environmental data from 10,000-15,000 years ago to understand human responses to rapid climate shifts. They found that communities with socio-ecological continuity thrived in a warmer world, while those with disrupted settlements struggled to adapt.
A recent study published in Science Advances suggests that corals can adapt to warmer oceans if global emissions are controlled. The research found genetic variants in some corals that make them more heat tolerant, but may not be enough to keep up with the rapid warming predicted by climate models.
The Institute of Atmospheric Physics published a special issue in AAS to commemorate Duzheng Ye's life's achievements. The collection focuses on Ye's theories and their impact on modern weather forecasting, climate change research, and Tibetan Plateau meteorology.
A new study suggests that climate change will negatively impact the reliability of US electricity generation, but today's infrastructure can be adapted to future conditions. Improvements in resiliency are driven by policy and economic opportunities making US power supply cleaner and more efficient.
The Lancet Countdown report reveals that climate change is having a significant impact on health, with 125 million adults over 65 exposed to heatwaves, and an estimated 5.3% loss in labour productivity. The report also highlights the increase in mosquito-borne diseases, air pollution, and economic losses linked to extreme weather events.
A new study reveals that America's power supply might be more adaptable to climate change due to maintenance and efficient energy technology. However, further research is needed to understand the collective strengths and vulnerabilities of the US power grid under climate conditions.
Researchers found that indirect effects of coevolution have a greater impact on complex biological communities than direct interactions. This is particularly concerning for species-rich networks, which are slow to adapt to rapid environmental changes and may face higher extinction risks.
A new study by University of Kansas researchers found that cities starting with a narrower focus on connections to natural hazards appear to lay a stronger foundation for a more comprehensive approach. This approach includes addressing climate-related impacts beyond just hazards like flooding and severe storms.
A UBC study identified 294 marine species that will be highly vulnerable to climate change by 2050. These species have limited temperature ranges, restricted geographic ranges, and specific habitat requirements making them more susceptible to climate change.
A new study clarifies different perspectives on loss and damage from climate change, highlighting four key viewpoints: adaptation and mitigation, risk management, limits to adaptation, and existential. These perspectives will help inform research and policy work on loss and damage.
A team of researchers at NTNU successfully conducted artificial selection on wild birds, altering their size and genetic composition. The study found that the birds' size changed as expected, with those on Vega becoming smaller and those on Leka becoming larger, before reverting back to original sizes once natural selection resumed.
A global synthesis study led by Rutgers University professor Ying Fan Reinfelder shows strong links between root depth and local soil and water conditions. Plants adapt to droughts by shifting to wetter environments through seed dispersal.
A recent study found that extreme weather events do not significantly increase support for climate policies, even among those who experienced severe weather. The study suggests that other factors, such as political beliefs and party affiliation, play a much larger role in shaping attitudes towards climate change.
Expert John Deutch argues that the US can't lower carbon emissions while growing the economy due to the Kaya Identity model. He suggests planned reductions won't be enough to avoid climate change's impact.
International scientists issue recommendations for future research on coral acclimatization and adaptation to climate change. Key findings suggest that while there is a 'nugget of hope' for corals to adapt, major knowledge gaps remain regarding their ability to cope with rapid warming,
A team of marine biology researchers from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) identified key mechanisms that enable corals to adapt to environmental changes. The study suggests that microbes play a vital role in coral physiology, allowing them to adjust quickly under changing conditions.
Daily peak loads in Southern Europe are expected to increase due to rising temperatures, while overall consumption will shift from Northern Europe to the South. The study also found that temperature-driven annual peak demand will shift from winter to summer by the end of this century.
A study by CSIC and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine found that higher temperatures increase health risks, but sensitivity varies by region. The study suggests adapting to excessive heat and developing migration strategies as climate change projections increase temperatures.
Researchers found that Pennsylvania snowshoe hares have shorter, less-dense winter coats than their northern counterparts, producing lower coat temperatures. They also exhibit altered movement rates and resting-spot selection in response to variable winter temperatures. These adaptations may enable the hares to survive warming winters.
The American pika's behavioral adaptations to climate change include shifting mating seasons, migrations, and adjustments in feeding and foraging strategies. However, these adaptations are limited by physiology and may incur costly trade-offs with other essential activities.
Asia and the Pacific face severe impacts from unmitigated climate change, including increased temperatures, extreme weather events, and declining agricultural productivity. The region is projected to experience a 6-degree Celsius temperature increase by 2100, leading to significant economic losses and human suffering.
Researchers used a model to project future weight-restrictions on flights due to climate change, finding that five to twenty-five percent of flights may require weight restrictions. The impact will be felt by both mid-sized and large aircraft, with airports in high temperatures or elevations seeing the largest effects.
Research published in Water Resources and Rural Development finds that access to water is worse now than in 1990, highlighting the need for stronger leadership from governments to implement long-term interventions. The study suggests that current approaches by NGOs, private companies, and other organizations are not aligned strategical...
A study found that birds living in prime conditions have lower evolutionary potential to cope with climate change, whereas those between extremes exhibit greater adaptability. This reduces the likelihood of survival for populations in optimal and harsh environments.
Three EU-funded projects synthesize research knowledge on high-end climate change impacts and adaptation for key policy sectors. Research highlights potential risks, challenges, and opportunities for transformational change, including innovative solutions for coastal zone adaptation.
Marine reserves can help protect wildlife, support fisheries, and promote carbon storage to slow climate change impacts. The study evaluates existing research on the benefits of large, long-established marine protected areas in reducing the effects of ocean acidification, sea-level rise, and other climate change drivers.
Researchers found that forest biomass had a major peak at altitudes of 2400-3100m, where forests struggle to reach more than 15m tall. This discovery challenges the assumption that tall mountains make small trees and reveals unique climate conditions on mountain tops of PNG.
A global assessment reveals that increased leaf abundance in boreal areas warms the environment while in arid regions it cools. The study suggests a buffering effect of greening on warming in about 60% of vegetated areas, but amplifies warming in boreal zones.
Scientists have identified two climate-resistant coral refuges in northern Mozambique and the Quirimbas Islands, which provide variability for corals to adapt to climate change. Maintaining sustainable fishing levels and reef fish biomass is crucial to preserve these reefs.
The Massachusetts Wildlife Climate Action Tool has received a national award for its exemplary leadership in addressing climate change impacts on fish and wildlife species and their habitats. The tool, launched in 2015, provides information on climate change vulnerabilities and offers adaptation strategies to protect natural resources.
Research suggests that phytoplankton can rapidly adapt to global warming by increasing photosynthesis rates, leading to increased oxygen production and a more stable food supply for aquatic life. The study monitored green algae in waters warmed by four degrees centigrade above ambient temperature over ten years.
Research highlights trees' crucial role in retaining water and producing cooling moisture, enhancing food security and climate change adaptation. The study suggests a new perspective on the relationship between trees and water in addressing climate change.
A new study suggests that investing in agriculture can improve food production and regional productivity, but also risks expanding agricultural land into natural forests. The region's future development will have profound implications for millions of people.
A North Carolina State University study reveals significant knowledge gaps in protecting cultural resources from climate-related changes. Researchers found that most studies focus on European and US sites, with limited research on Australia and Asia.
Climate change research needs to focus on how changing population structures will affect future human wellbeing. Global scenarios already include demographic data, but this is not being fully utilized. A new conceptual model, 'demographic metabolism,' can account for the replacement of generations and their impact on vulnerability.
The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) has launched a $2.5 million fund to support projects that help wildlife adapt to climate change in wild landscapes and urban areas. The fund will focus on enhancing ecological processes and ecosystem functions, rather than just conserving or restoring historic conditions.
Sebastian Will, a Columbia University assistant professor, has been awarded a $60,000 fellowship to investigate the fundamental understanding of quantum many-body systems. The Alfred P. Sloan Foundation recognizes his unique potential to make substantial contributions to physics.
Katharine Mach, a senior research scientist at Stanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences, discussed the importance of assessment in climate science. She highlighted the challenges of navigating complex science policy territory and the need for tact and negotiation among experts and decision-makers.
A new analysis found that climate change is having a massive impact on threatened species, with nearly 700 species affected. The study suggests that negative responses to climate change have been vastly underreported, with only 7% of mammals and 4% of birds previously estimated to be impacted.
A study of 22 plant species found that warmer temperatures cause them to bloom earlier, with some struggling to adapt. The research suggests that plants like silver birch and beech will thrive in a changing climate, while others, such as bluebell and garlic mustard, may struggle.
A new study predicts climate change will increase US electricity costs by billions of dollars due to higher temperatures and peak demand. Utilities will need to spend between $70 billion and $180 billion on grid upgrades to absorb these surges.
Researchers analyze how ancient South Asian population coped with changing environmental conditions using lake records and speleothem data. They found that the civilization developed in a diverse environment where water was critical for survival, and its populations were well-adapted to varying climate conditions before urbanization.
A new study led by Cornell University researchers found that exposure to Pope Francis' image heightened moral beliefs about climate change in wide segments of the public, particularly Republicans. For Republicans who saw the pontiff's photo prior to answering questions, 39% agreed that climate change is a moral issue, up from just 30%.
A team of researchers has identified genetic mutations that enable microalgae from the Southern Ocean to adapt to extreme and variable climates. The study provides insights into how polar organisms cope with environmental changes induced by human activity.
Researchers identify three critical areas for climate research to tackle new frontiers of climate study. They include understanding the fate of carbon in the atmosphere and accurately modeling regional climate changes. These efforts require international collaboration and significant computational resources.
A study published in Nature Climate Change finds that a lack of research led by Southern scientists hinders global agreements and nationally-appropriate actions on climate change. Practical steps are recommended to bridge the divide and promote inclusive scientific development.
The University of Notre Dame's Global Adaptation Initiative is assessing the climate vulnerability and readiness of over 250 US cities with a population over 100,000. The Urban Adaptation Assessment integrates social equity analysis to investigate how vulnerable groups are disproportionately harmed by climate hazards.
Researchers found that clownfish can change hormone levels to become female and restore balance after the death of a female. The team identified key molecular pathways involved in this process, including aromatase, which is linked to estrogen production.
A new study assesses the feasibility of green façades as a climate change mitigation strategy in urban environments. The research reveals that experts estimate the likelihood of implementation at only 2% without incentives, but increases to 14% with financial and legislative support.
Researchers sequenced coral genomes to model population histories and show that corals can recover after environmental disasters. The study confirms fossil evidence and suggests that current reef deterioration can be reversed by reducing environmental stresses.
A new study reveals that 82% of global ecological processes have been impacted by climate change, from genes to entire ecosystems. This has significant implications for conservation efforts and human societies, as consequences include increased pests, disease outbreaks, and unpredictable changes in fisheries.
The Lancet Countdown is an international research initiative that tracks the impacts of climate change on public health and informs decision-making. It aims to accelerate policy responses to address the growing health risks associated with climate change.
A new University of Florida study reveals that global warming is already dramatically impacting every aspect of life on Earth. Over 80 percent of ecological processes are showing signs of responses to climate change, affecting species and ecosystems worldwide.
Research from the University of East Anglia found that some fish species, like the Winter Skate, are adapting to warmer oceans through epigenetic changes rather than genetic evolution. This allows them to cope with changing environmental conditions and may be vital for their survival in the face of climate change.
Research by University of Exeter scientists reveals that climate change disrupts fish sensory systems, including smell, hearing, and vision. Fish may swim towards predator smells or ignore sounds that deter them from risky habitats.
The new research framework lays out two sets of options for support: curative measures to address unavoidable risks, and transformative risk management to build resilience against climate-related impacts. This analysis provides a way to work towards consensus and principled action for dealing with critical climate-related risks.
A new study by McGill University reveals that economic transitions, social shifts, and climate change are dramatically affecting the safety of Inuit during Arctic activities. The research connects life-endangering events to increasing costs of harvesting and travel, changing technology, and shifts in Indigenous knowledge.
A study suggests that coral reef fish can opt for cooler temperatures instead of adapting to warmer ocean conditions. This could be a survival mechanism to mitigate the impact of global climate change.