The science and politics of climate change

摘要

The scientific evidence of climate change has developed rapidly over the past 30 years, with an over- whelming array of scientific data supporting the view that human activity, in particular greenhouse gas emissions from burning fossil fuels, has a measurable and accelerating influence on Earth’s climate. The scientific process underpinning climate science is no different to any other peer-reviewed field of science. Scientists are sceptical by training and continually challenge ideas, revise theories and subject their work to critical peer review, in a continual loop that drives scientific understanding. Despite what we hear in the popular press, there is very little disagreement among climate scientists on the broad trends in climate change and mankind’s influence, or on what needs to be done about it. Why then do climate change deniers have such a strong voice in the media? This paper will attempt to unravel the science from the politics, describe typical emotional responses, and discuss the importance of, and barriers to, achieving an international agreement on reducing emissions.