THE extent of climate change impacts on the environment and resource use will be the focus of an international conference to be held in Perth in March, 2009.
Greenhouse 2009: Climate Change and Resources will draw together national and international climate experts to discuss climate impacts, mitigation and adaptation strategies for industry, government and households.
“However you look at climate change — from influences on Australian rainfall and river inflows to energy options and carbon capture — Australians are responding to the environmental issue of our times,” Conference Convenor, Paul Holper from CSIRO Marine and Atmospheric Research said.
“The Garnaut Review, the study into drought support for primary producers and debate over emissions trading, have all increased consumer awareness of the reality and imminence of climate impacts.”
Greenhouse 2009 will be a significant opportunity to review the latest climate change science and projections and will co-host the World Climate Research Program workshop on El Niño and climate change.
Key presenters will include: Dr Andrew Ash, Director, Climate Adaptation Flagship; Dr Graeme Pearman, GP Consulting; Dr Bryson Bates, CSIRO Marine and Atmospheric Research; Dr Ray Wills, WA Sustainable Energy Association; Mr John Ruprecht, Water Resource Management,Department of Water ; Prof. Peter Newman, Curtin University; Prof. Axel Timmerman, University of Hawaii; Dr Filippo Giorgi, Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics, Italy.
Last held in Sydney in 2007, when it coincided with the release of Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) reports and projections for Australian climate (www.climatechangeinaustralia.gov.au), the Greenhouse conference is being organised by CSIRO in collaboration with industry, government and other major research institutions.
Major sponsors include the Australian Department of Climate Change, the Western Australian Government and New Scientist magazine.
“There will be strong representation from industry and government leaders, highlighting the actions that are being taken to address climate change,” Holper said.
The conference will also cover international issues, policy development, communication and education.
For more information about Greenhouse 09 visit the website at: www.greenhouse2009.com/