>Please note that JavaScript and style sheet are used in this website,
Due to unadaptability of the style sheet with the browser used in your computer, pages may not look as original.
Even in such a case, however, the contents can be used safely.
Interview - An image of the future in 100 years
An easy-to-grasp image of global warming in 100 years
- Q:
How is global warming prediction research helpful?
- Dr. Emori:
My role in climate change research has shifted over the years from prediction calculations to a focus on how we should use the simulation results. If the calculated results are simply passed to the public, it is unlikely that many would be able to find meaning in the numbers.
For example, I am often asked to explain the impact of global warming on society and people in general. The response to that question has to be carefully thought out with the cooperation of impact assessment researchers, decision-making authorities, and the general public, with respect to the level of impact of global warming and accuracy of the prediction.
I think a key issue is how effectively we can portray the world 100 years down the road. People living today are not likely to experience the extinction of the human race from global warming. People living 100 years from now probably won't either. However, suppose the global temperature rises by 2 or 3 C° and the sea level rise. These events would certainly make life more difficult for people. After 200 to 300 years, the human species may indeed become endangered.
In abnormally hot summers in recent years, people often make remarks about how hot it is "this year" when in fact the average temperature is above normal by about 1 C°. Should the average temperature throughout the year rise by 2 C°, how hot would this be? To avoid this, it is essential to make efforts to change society. Society can change depending on how real the problem is perceived by people.
It is therefore important to visually show people how climate can change and how appropriate measures can have a positive impact.
On the other hand, I also think it is important for researchers to maintain a neutral viewpoint by recognizing the cons and pros of implications of global warming.
