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Library Climate Change Science Program: Options for the Future |
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The Climate Change Science Program is currently assessing strategic directions for the future.
Over the last 18 years, the U.S. Global Change Research Program and now the Climate Change Science Program have sought to coordinate and integrate federal research on global environmental change with recent special focus on climate change. Good progress has been made in the area of 'discovery science' and understanding the climate system, according to an evaluation of the Program by the National Research Council, but there remains much work to be done, both to strengthen the gains made in physical earth science, as well as to apply the scientific findings more effectively—translating the science into useful information. It is now accepted that widespread impacts of climate change are both inevitable and where possible, to be avoided. And, decisions are already being made to respond to climate change. However, production of new scientific information and better application of existing information is needed to underpin future decisions regarding adapting to a changing climate and tempering climate change. This will require evolution in the science that is pursued and mechanisms for linking that information to stakeholders across regions and sectors. Building Blocks We have now established a series of interagency teams that will examine what programmatic options might be appropriate under the broad categories of 'science to inform mitigation', and 'science to inform adaptation'. We have also convened interagency teams to assess the possible "building blocks" of a comprehensive program that is more responsive to the increasing demand for climate and global change information. Please see our Strategic Building Block Page for more information.Listening Sessions In addition to the interagency examination of options, we have placed a strong emphasis on ensuring that the elements of these building blocks are informed by the real needs of decision-makers and public 'on the ground'. CCSP has convened a series of Listening Sessions around the country that will facilitate conversation with regional and sectoral stakeholders who can help us tailor our future scope to serve their needs. We are also taking advantage of Federal agency-led meetings that already engage stakeholders of climate and global change information. Please see our webpage outlining the calendar for the listening sessions and providing access to the reports from that ongoing effort.If you would like to provide input via this web-site, we welcome your comments - particularly on the future direction of the Program and on the sort of climate information you need and/or currently use. Please send your comments to input@usgcrp.gov. |
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