Our climate is changing and this will affect most of us in some way during our lifetimes.
Changes that are currently occurring include rising temperatures, changing rainfall patterns, sea level rise and ocean acidification.
Further climate change is expected due to increases in greenhouse gas emissions.
Climate research is essential in our efforts to quantify future risks and opportunities, slow the continuing emissions and adapt to the impacts associated with a warmer world.
Changes to the climate will have substantial impacts on water resources, coasts, infrastructure, health, agriculture, fisheries and biodiversity.
Effective emissions reduction efforts and climate change adaptation together will bring important benefits: social, environmental and economic risks will be lower; new opportunities can be exploited; and fresh thinking about climate resilience will stimulate innovation.
