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Learn the facts about climate science, debunk myths, and understand the solutions to address climate change misconceptions. Explore the critical scientific concepts, including the greenhouse effect, global warming, and human impact on climate. Discover the importance of climate literacy and sustainability in education for a greener tomorrow.
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Step 1 Toward Integrating Science & Solutions: Addressing Climate Confusion & Misperceptions
Climate Confusion & Misperceptions Scientific Concept In summer we’re closer to the sun Axial tilt is reason for the seasons Schneps, 1985
Climate Confusion & Misperceptions Scientific Concept Air is invisible and weightless Air has density and momentum
Climate Confusion & Misperceptions Scientific Concept Weather & Climate are different processes and studied differently Climate is averaged weather
Climate Confusion & Misperceptions Scientific Concept Small changes in a few trace gases can’t warm the entire planet +99% of gas concentrations in atmosphere don’t capture heat Oh, and by the way, it’s not really like a greenhouse
Climate Confusion & Misperceptions Scientific Concept Solar radiation bounces/reflects off Earth Incoming UV and visible are transformed into outgoing IR heat
Climate Confusion & Misperceptions Scientific Concept Global warming is just natural cycles Human activities warm the planet
Climate Confusion & Misperceptions Scientific Concept Plants get their mass from water and nutrients through their roots Plants get mass from “thin air” and experience seasonal cycles
Climate Confusion & Misperceptions Scientific Concept Global warming caused by human activities, especially burning fossil fuels Global warming caused by ozone hole
Climate Confusion & Misperceptions Scientific Concept There is no scientific consensus that human activities are a major cause of warming There is robust consensus that human activities impact climate (97.4% publishing climate scientists) Doran, Zimmerman (2009) GeneralDowd
Climate Confusion & Misperceptions Scientific Concept The accumulation of GHG in the atmosphere is difficult to slow, let alone reverse. We’ll be able to soon reverse global warming
The Challenges of Integrating Science & Solutions
http://www.presidentsclimatecommitment.org/ ~700 Colleges & Universities Pledge to Develop Carbon Neutrality Plans & Courses & Education Experiences
“If you can graduate climate-literate graduates in every area – people who are going to become leaders in business, government, non-profit organizations and legal systems.... Toni Nelson Program Director American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment
...If you can get a shift happening in their education and climate-literacy, then you shift the whole culture around climate.” Toni Nelson Program Director American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment