Global Change Biology

We will examine the effects of global climate change on the earth system. Our emphasis will be on exploring what we know about the impacts of climate change on ecosystems, and how we know it: how do biologists study processes on a global scale? How accurately can we predict future changes in ecosystem distribution and function? We will also delve into how changing ecosystem processes are likely to affect humans, through impacts on ecosystem services, for example. The course will culminate with an examination of science communication, and students will engage in independent projects to practice the art of effective science communication. (BIOL 0140) 3 hrs. lect.