Societal benefits of earth system science

Abstract

Climate prediction over India is focused on the monsoons and has a history of well over a century. Weather forecast efforts span over 7 decades. As climate change issues take center stage, the need for a deeper understanding of the components of earth systems is recognized as critical for learning how the earth is changing. The long-term measurements, both in situ and satellite are crucial for improved predictive capability to forecast weather, climate and hazards. Capacity building in climate change research is also paramount for responsible stewardship of the Earth as an integrated and it is an investment that will pay dividends for generations to come. A number of programs focused on monsoons to earthquakes to energy and ecosystems are being planned to tackle these important issues. The success of these programs depends not only on technology and infrastructure but on people, an education system that produces the scientists and managers needed for implementing such an approach. We need to build effective communication with various stake-holders including policy-makers.