Climate Change: The Physical Science Basis

Catalog description

Climate change is one of the defining challenges facing humanity today. The goal of this first-year seminar is to develop a fundamental and integrated understanding of the physical science basis of climate change. We will begin with a discussion of the physical science of climate change and explore the potential societal consequences of a changing climate. We will then focus on understanding the sources of greenhouse gases, explore the potential of alternative low-carbon and carbon-free energy sources in the context of stabilizing atmospheric greenhouse gas concentrations. We will also discuss geoengineering options to mitigate clinate change Finally, we will delve into specific strategies for tackling climate change in Duke University's Climate Action Plan.