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Climate extremes and risks: links between climate science and decision-making
Publikationstyp
Journal Article
Date Issued
2024-12-18
Sprache
English
Author(s)
Raupach, Timothy H.
Findell, Kirsten L.
Donat, Markus
Alves, Lincoln M.
Alexander, Lisa
Borchert, Leonard
de Amorim, Pablo Borges
Buontempo, Carlo
Fischer, Erich M.
Franzke, Christian L.
Guan, Bin
Haasnoot, Marjolijn
Hawkins, Ed
Mahon, Roché
Maraun, Douglas
Morrison, Monica A.
Ruane, Alex C.
Shampa,
Stephenson, Tannecia
van der Wel, Narelle
Wang, Zhuo
Zhang, Xuebin
Županić, Josipa
Journal
Volume
6
Article Number
1499765
Citation
Frontiers in Climate 6: 1499765 (2024)
Publisher DOI
Scopus ID
Publisher
Frontiers Media
The World Climate Research Programme (WCRP) envisions a future where actionable climate information is universally accessible, supporting decision makers in preparing for and responding to climate change. In this perspective, we advocate for enhancing links between climate science and decision-making through a better and more decision-relevant understanding of climate impacts. The proposed framework comprises three pillars: climate science, impact science, and decision-making, focusing on generating seamless climate information from sub-seasonal, seasonal, decadal to century timescales informed by observed climate events and their impacts. The link between climate science and decision-making has strengthened in recent years, partly owing to undeniable impacts arising from disastrous weather extremes. Enhancing decision-relevant understanding involves utilizing lessons from past extreme events and implementing impact-based early warning systems to improve resilience. Integrated risk assessment and management require a comprehensive approach that encompasses good knowledge about possible impacts, hazard identification, monitoring, and communication of risks while acknowledging uncertainties inherent in climate predictions and projections, but not letting the uncertainty lead to decision paralysis. The importance of data accessibility, especially in the Global South, underscores the need for better coordination and resource allocation. Strategic frameworks should aim to enhance impact-related and open-access climate services around the world. Continuous improvements in predictive modeling and observational data are critical, as is ensuring that climate science remains relevant to decision makers locally and globally. Ultimately, fostering stronger collaborations and dedicated investments to process and tailor climate data will enhance societal preparedness, enabling communities to navigate the complexities of a changing climate effectively.
Subjects
climate change
climate extremes
climate impacts
climate risk
climate service
decision making
DDC Class
620: Engineering