We are holding a cross-departmental discussion meeting. 

In 2015, the global mean annual concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere will reach 400ppm.  At the time that this happens, we have an opportunity to refocus attention on the very real threat of dangerous climate changes.  The media will undoubtedly be covering that milestone and therefore we can capitalise on that opportunity if we are ready. We are well placed to try to do this.

In this meeting we wish to discuss how to make the best of the media attention that will be afforded us at that time.

How can we help policymakers and the general public understand that the threat of climate changes is real and needs addressing?

One of the mechanisms that we envision for achieving this goal is a special issue or a review paper on a 400ppm world, but we are open to any ideas that you may have.  

We are encouraging all departments to come and offer your support and ideas, and hear about the progress that has already been made towards achieving this goal.

You can particularly help if:

• If your department has an impact model that is directly or indirectly driven by climate (or weather)
• If you have suggestions, comments or feedback on this topic.

The proposed focus is on a 400ppm world.  Questions we will raise are:

• What does it look like?
• How out of equilibrium are we currently?
• If we were somehow able to curb the rate of increase in emissions and restrict to our present state, what are the changes that we might expect to see given what we have already emitted?
• How might this impact on agriculture, water resources, flooding, droughts, hurricanes, infectious diseases, migration, energy requirements, health, economics etc.
• What can we say about our Best Case Scenario?
• Can we use information to adequately convey the seriousness of potential climate changes, but with a positive message?
• Perhaps that - at the moment - our best case scenario is not too bad; it is not too late to do something? But if we do not do something and soon our best case scenario only gets worse.

Members from all departments are encouraged to attend.  Refreshments will be provided.

If you have any comments/suggestions/feedback/offers of support on this topic but are unable to make the meeting, please email them to Catherine Bradshaw.

Agenda