SCHEDULE UPDATE: Due to this week's storm and campus closings IAP Classes on Thursday, January 30, and Friday, January 30, will proceed with adjustments to subject matter covered. Please see below for an updated schedule.

Thursday January 29, 4-237  
1:00 - 2:00 PM - Climate Science 102: The Nonlinear Climate System 
2:00 - 3:00 PM - Climate Policy 101, Part I 

Friday January 30, 4-237 
1:00 - 1:30 PM - Climate Policy 101, Part II 
1:30 - 3:00 PM - Climate Policy 102 
3:00 - 3:30 PM - Open Q+A with graduate student panel

In the first two two sessions, we’ll discuss fundamental features of the earth system and how they’re connected to each other (and to society).  Our exploration will revolve around aspects of climate and climate change, touching on the roles of the atmosphere, ocean, biosphere, and cryosphere in determining climate.  This science background will help contextualize the different global and local policies discussed in the Climate Policy lectures.

The next two sessions will outline how energy use and greenhouse gas emissions are linked to the world economy and the technologies we use, how climate change impacts affect us, and discuss mitigation and adaptation options and instruments. It will also survey policies in place at global, domestic, and community levels, and major challenges and opportunities as the world works toward coordinated action.

Last, we'll have a concluding session led by a panel of grad students designed to assist the navigation of climate science and policy news as it is reported in popular media outlets, demonstrating how to get to the details of the original, peer-reviewed research.