EVSC 1450 An Inconvenient Truce: Climate, You and CO₂

Course Description

Is global warming real? Do you wish you understood more so you didn’t have to wonder? Climate is not as complicated as it seems. In this class, you will learn how the climate system works, how climate has changed in the past, and how it is likely to change in the future. Perhaps you hope to work, one day, for a company with global reach, with lots of projects or tons of money to invest. Business depends on ports, railroads, bridges and roads functioning as they always have—but will they? You may ultimately live near the coast, along with half of all humanity. Will your town be flooded by sea-level rise?

You will explore the consequences of a changing climate for humanity and the earth system on which we all depend. You will also discuss what we can do about it. During the course, you will engage in discussions of climate occurring in the public sphere in real-time—responding with science to images, articles, blogs, and films that you encounter. Lectures will be combined with interactive activities inside and outside of the classroom. Peer dialogue is a critical component of the course, and I will provide many opportunities for you to interact with each other around the ideas we explore. We will practice formulating scientific arguments and communicating them effectively to others.

When you leave this class, and reflect on it years from now, my goals are for you to be able to

·      explain how the climate system works

·      describe how it is likely to change in the future

·      outline the consequences for humanity and the ecosystems on which we depend

·      formulate and critique options for influencing the climate in your lifetime

As you go on to live your life, I hope you will feel comfortable engaging in debates on public policy surrounding what many consider the defining issue of our time. Finally, I hope the course will help you communicate better, and that you will share your understanding of climate change with the people in your life.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the course, you will be able to

·      identify the key elements of the climate system and the major drivers of change

·      examine climate models to reveal critical processes and feedbacks and to predict the consequences of climate change

·      evaluate current messages about climate change in the public sphere

·      communicate and share your scientific knowledge of climate, engage in debates on climate policy, and add a new dimension to your personal experience.