Much of modern society's experience of managing resources and protecting people and infrastructure has occurred during a period of relatively stable climate. In the most recent decades in the Southwest, we have observed a cascade of impacts associated with temperature increases, including changes in snow hydrology, urban heat, wildland fire, and in the severity of drought impacts. Projected future climate changes and impacts may lie outside the range of climate variation that we have observed and may have more serious consequences for society and the environment. Anticipating changes will allow society to identify response options across a range of vulnerabilities and manage the risks associated with projected climate changes. In the best possible cases, these actions, or adaptations, may provide economic and other benefits to society.
In this course, we will examine actions to reduce vulnerabilities or increase resilience to the potential impacts of climate change. The focus is on preparedness to reduce climate-related risks. Each of the class sessions is designed to include thought-provoking presentations by local and national practitioners and researchers--to ground state-of-the-art science and theory with on-the-ground realities. The general focus will be on impacts and responses in the arid Southwest (water, fire, wildlife, ecosystems, cities). The course will also investigate the tools and frameworks for advancing action and incorporating adaptation planning at the local, regional, national and international scale.
The course is open to undergraduate seniors from relevant academic programs, with the permission of the instructors.
Instructor(s)
- gmgarfin