Author: Tom Finn
Publisher: Field Books
ISBN:
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 306
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Book Description
The Earth's ecosystems are a testament to the power of nature's resilience. From the towering rainforests to the vibrant coral reefs, these complex systems are a network of life, interconnected in ways we are only beginning to understand. Yet, these ecosystems are facing an unprecedented threat: climate change. The impacts of climate change are multifaceted, but one of the most profound is its effect on the timing of biological processes, a field known as phenology. Species around the globe are adapting to a changing climate, altering their migration patterns, breeding seasons, and hibernation cycles. These shifts can disrupt delicate ecological balances, cascading through ecosystems with unforeseen consequences. "Nature's Clock" takes readers on a journey through the intricate relationship between climate change and the natural world. We will explore the science behind global warming, the consequences for biodiversity, and the critical need for conservation strategies. We will uncover the stories of species struggling to adapt to a changing environment and the threats to ecosystems that sustain life on our planet. This book is a call for action, a plea for understanding, and a message of hope. By illuminating the intricate workings of nature's clock, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of life and the urgency to address climate change for the sake of our planet and future generations.
Author: The Royal Society
Publisher: National Academies Press
ISBN: 0309302021
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 74
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Book Description
Climate Change: Evidence and Causes is a jointly produced publication of The US National Academy of Sciences and The Royal Society. Written by a UK-US team of leading climate scientists and reviewed by climate scientists and others, the publication is intended as a brief, readable reference document for decision makers, policy makers, educators, and other individuals seeking authoritative information on the some of the questions that continue to be asked. Climate Change makes clear what is well-established and where understanding is still developing. It echoes and builds upon the long history of climate-related work from both national academies, as well as on the newest climate-change assessment from the United Nations' Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. It touches on current areas of active debate and ongoing research, such as the link between ocean heat content and the rate of warming.
Author: F.Stuart III Chapin
Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media
ISBN: 3642789668
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 337
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Book Description
As human populations expand and have increasing access to technol ogy, two general environmental concerns have arisen. First, human pop ulations are having increasing impact on the earth system, such that we are altering the biospheric carbon pools, basic processes of elemental cycling and the climate system of the earth. Because of time lags and feedbacks, these processes are not easily reversed. These alterations are occurring now more rapidly than at any time in the last several million years. Secondly, human activities are causing changes in the earth's biota that lead to species extinctions at a rate and magnitude rivaling those of past geologic extinction events. Although environmental change is potentially reversible at some time scales, the loss of species is irrevo cable. Changes in diversity at other scales are also cause for concern. Habitat fragmentation and declines in population sizes alter genetic di versity. Loss or introduction of new functional groups, such as nitro gen fixers or rodents onto islands can strongly alter ecosystem processes. Changes in landscape diversity through habitat modification and frag mentation alter the nature of processes within and among vegetation patches. Although both ecological changes altering the earth system and the loss of biotic diversity have been major sources of concern in recent years, these concerns have been largely independent, with little concern for the environmental causes the ecosystem consequences of changes in biodiversity. These two processes are clearly interrelated. Changes in ecological systems cause changes in diversity.
Author: Klaus Rohde
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
ISBN: 1107310946
Category : Nature
Languages : en
Pages :
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Book Description
It is clear that nature is undergoing rapid changes as a result of human activities such as industry, agriculture, travel, fisheries and urbanisation. What effects do these activities have? Are they disturbing equilibria in ecological populations and communities, thus upsetting the balance of nature, or are they enhancing naturally occurring disequilibria, perhaps with even worse consequences? It is often argued that large-scale fluctuations in climate and sea-levels have occurred over and over again in the geological past, long before human activities could possibly have had any impact, and that human effects are very small compared to those that occur naturally. Should we conclude that human activity cannot significantly affect the environment, or are these naturally occurring fluctuations actually being dangerously enhanced by humans? This book examines these questions, first by providing evidence for equilibrium and non-equilibrium conditions in relatively undisturbed ecosystems, and second by examining human-induced effects.
Author: National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine
Publisher: National Academies Press
ISBN: 0309471699
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 207
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Book Description
Climate change poses many challenges that affect society and the natural world. With these challenges, however, come opportunities to respond. By taking steps to adapt to and mitigate climate change, the risks to society and the impacts of continued climate change can be lessened. The National Climate Assessment, coordinated by the U.S. Global Change Research Program, is a mandated report intended to inform response decisions. Required to be developed every four years, these reports provide the most comprehensive and up-to-date evaluation of climate change impacts available for the United States, making them a unique and important climate change document. The draft Fourth National Climate Assessment (NCA4) report reviewed here addresses a wide range of topics of high importance to the United States and society more broadly, extending from human health and community well-being, to the built environment, to businesses and economies, to ecosystems and natural resources. This report evaluates the draft NCA4 to determine if it meets the requirements of the federal mandate, whether it provides accurate information grounded in the scientific literature, and whether it effectively communicates climate science, impacts, and responses for general audiences including the public, decision makers, and other stakeholders.
Author: Jan Alber
Publisher: Walter de Gruyter GmbH & Co KG
ISBN: 3110730200
Category : Literary Criticism
Languages : en
Pages : 190
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Book Description
Climate change and the apocalypse are frequently associated in the popular imagination of the twenty-first century. This collection of essays brings together climatologists, theologians, historians, literary scholars, and philosophers to address and critically assess this association. The contributing authors are concerned, among other things, with the relation between cultural and scientific discourses on climate change; the role of apocalyptic images and narratives in representing environmental issues; and the tension between reality and fiction in apocalyptic representations of catastrophes. By focusing on how figures in fictional texts interact with their environment and deal with the consequences of climate change, this volume foregrounds the broader social and cultural function of apocalyptic narratives of climate change. By evoking a sense of collective human destiny in the face of the ultimate catastrophe, apocalyptic narratives have both cautionary and inspirational functions. Determining the extent to which such narratives square with scientific knowledge of climate change is one of the main aims of this book.
Author: Nadja Kabisch
Publisher: Springer
ISBN: 3319560913
Category : Political Science
Languages : en
Pages : 337
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Book Description
This open access book brings together research findings and experiences from science, policy and practice to highlight and debate the importance of nature-based solutions to climate change adaptation in urban areas. Emphasis is given to the potential of nature-based approaches to create multiple-benefits for society. The expert contributions present recommendations for creating synergies between ongoing policy processes, scientific programmes and practical implementation of climate change and nature conservation measures in global urban areas. Except where otherwise noted, this book is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. To view a copy of this license, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Author: Yves Earhart
Publisher: Publifye AS
ISBN: 8233933686
Category : Nature
Languages : en
Pages : 133
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Book Description
""Nature Berries"" explores the fascinating world of wild berries, offering readers a comprehensive guide to identifying, harvesting, and utilizing these often-overlooked natural treasures. The book delves into the nutritional properties of various berries, highlighting their potential health benefits and medicinal uses. From North American blueberries to Nordic cloudberries, it takes readers on a global tour of berry usage in different cuisines, showcasing their versatility and cultural significance. This unique blend of nature guide and cookbook progresses through four main sections, covering identification techniques, nutritional profiles, global culinary applications, and practical harvesting and preparation methods. By weaving together insights from botany, nutrition science, and cultural anthropology, ""Nature Berries"" presents a holistic view of its subject matter. The book's approach balances scientific information with accessible language, making it engaging for both novice foragers and experienced naturalists alike. What sets this book apart is its global perspective, introducing readers to lesser-known berries from various continents and climates. By doing so, it not only expands culinary horizons but also fosters a deeper connection with nature, encouraging sustainable harvesting practices and a greater appreciation for local ecosystems. ""Nature Berries"" serves as an invaluable resource for food enthusiasts, health-conscious individuals, and nature lovers seeking to unlock nature's bounty and explore the diverse world of wild berries.
Author: National Research Council
Publisher: National Academies Press
ISBN: 0309133041
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 252
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Book Description
The climate record for the past 100,000 years clearly indicates that the climate system has undergone periodic-and often extreme-shifts, sometimes in as little as a decade or less. The causes of abrupt climate changes have not been clearly established, but the triggering of events is likely to be the result of multiple natural processes. Abrupt climate changes of the magnitude seen in the past would have far-reaching implications for human society and ecosystems, including major impacts on energy consumption and water supply demands. Could such a change happen again? Are human activities exacerbating the likelihood of abrupt climate change? What are the potential societal consequences of such a change? Abrupt Climate Change: Inevitable Surprises looks at the current scientific evidence and theoretical understanding to describe what is currently known about abrupt climate change, including patterns and magnitudes, mechanisms, and probability of occurrence. It identifies critical knowledge gaps concerning the potential for future abrupt changes, including those aspects of change most important to society and economies, and outlines a research strategy to close those gaps. Based on the best and most current research available, this book surveys the history of climate change and makes a series of specific recommendations for the future.
Author: Thomas E. Lovejoy
Publisher: Yale University Press
ISBN: 0300241194
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 414
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Book Description
An essential, up-to-date look at the critical interactions between biological diversity and climate change that will serve as an immediate call to action The physical and biological impacts of climate change are dramatic and broad-ranging. People who care about the planet and manage natural resources urgently need a synthesis of our rapidly growing understanding of these issues. In this all-new sequel to the 2005 volume Climate Change and Biodiversity, leading experts in the field summarize observed changes, assess what the future holds, and offer suggested responses. Edited by distinguished conservationist Thomas E. Lovejoy and climate change biologist Lee Hannah, this comprehensive volume includes the latest research and explores emerging topics. From extinction risk to ocean acidification, the future of the Amazon to changes in ecosystem services, and geoengineering to the power of ecosystem restoration, this volume captures the sweep of climate change transformation of the biosphere. An authoritative, up-to-date reference, this is the new benchmark synthesis for climate change scientists, conservationists, managers, policymakers, and educators.
