AAAS publishes What We Know

            The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) recently published tier sought-after report titled, What We Know, detailing a summary report on what is currently known by climate scientists on the issue of climate change, and its impacts on our planet. Available for free on their website, the report quickly states that their main goal is not to “explain why [the] disconnect between scientific knowledge and public perception has occurred.” Instead, their main focus lies on presenting information on the consequences of climate change.

            The impact of climate change has even had a shift in American’s perception of the issue. For example, due to recent extreme weather events in the United States in the last few years, “two out of three Americans said weather in the U.S. has been worse over the past several years.” According to AAAS, this is up over 10 percent since early 2012. Besides the general knowledge that climate change is making rainy regions wetter, and dry regions even dryer, this report also focus on other aspects of the issue. 

            For example, they state that the ocean’s current rate of acidification is “the fastest in 300 million years,” with marine animals moving out of their usual location. In regards to melting Artic summer ice, the report says that in late 2012, ice melted at “nearly twice the size of Alaska.” While it is known that sea level rise impacts low-lying communities around the world, it is less well-known their impact on coastal fresh water wells. 

            The report notes that in South Florida, as a result of rising sea levels, salt water has made its way into some coastal wells. Besides the increasing costs of insurance, coastal communities must now protect their local water supplies for their long-term use. Another aspect to consider are more frequent storms and floods. With these becoming stronger, not only can they destroy homes and other infrastructure, but also accelerate the rate of asthma from flooded buildings not properly fixed after a flood. 

            When considering the impact of climate change on the military, the CNA Military Advisory Board recently said that “changes in climate are considered as potential threat multiplier or instability accelerants.” Discussion has now begun by other high-ranking DOD officials on how the American military and its infrastructure will be impacted.  

            Lastly, these scientists warn of the potential dangers frozen methane has if melted in the Arctic Ocean. As methane is the strongest of the three major greenhouse gases (CO2, Nitrogen, and Methane), scientists are not sure of the degree of high-impact they could have on our planet. Hopefully this report makes its intended impact on policymakers and, unfortunately, the last few deniers out there. Consider their points, and get to know the scientists of the report. Get informed.