Events & Courses

What the geological record tells us about our present and future climate

The geological record captures multiple episodes of climate change. It shows that changes in temperature and greenhouse gas concentrations have direct impacts on sea level, the hydrological cycle, marine and terrestrial ecosystems, and the acidification and oxygen depletion of the oceans. By reconstructing past climate changes, we can better understand the dynamics of the climate system and hence the range of impacts possible under current warming.

This symposium is arranged in conjunction with the Geological Society’s scientific statement on climate change, with Dan Lunt serving as lead convener. It will feature invited keynote lectures and submitted short presentations on nine themes over the course of two days.

The list of invited speakers has been finalised:

1. Jessica Tierney: What does the geological record of climate change look like?
2. Paul Valdes: Why has climate changed in the past?
3. Darrell Kaufman: Is our current warming unusual?
4. Kaustaubh Thirumalai: What does the geological record indicate about global v. regional change?
5. Daniela Schmidt: When Earth's temperature changed in the past, what were the impacts?
6. Anna von der Heydt: How does the geological record inform our quantification of climate sensitivity?
7. Alan Haywood: Are there past climate analogues for the future?
8. Bette Otto-Bliesner: How can the geological record be used to evaluate climate models?
9. Rachael James: What is the role of geology in dealing with the climate emergency for a sustainable future

There will be a plenary lecture by Maureen Raymo on 26 May. 

REGISTRATION

Registration is free, via Eventbrite. Registration closes on 24 May 2021.