Sea Level

The sea level has risen 100 meters in the last 15000 years, but is still near its lowest point in geologic history. Thus there is ample opportunity for the sea level to continue to rise, and even small changes in climate may have a noticable effect on sea level during our lifetimes.

Climate, Energy and Water

Everyone knows that our climate is changing, but less is known about the social impacts of climate change and the effectiveness of programs to mitigate it. The California Climate Change Center investigates the links between climate change and social systems, and looks for opportunities to use these links to mitigate climate change impacts. Our particular focus is on climate, energy and water. Much of the impact of climate change on society will be mediated through the cost of water and the price of energy. These costs may change in complex ways, because water and energy use are closely related. For example, in many parts of the world, the cost of water closely approximates the cost of electricity to deliver and treat that water. Similarly, the supply of energy is often dependent on the supply of water — for hydropower, for cooling, and for irrigation of biofuels. These linkages point to the need for joint studies and models of these resources, and it is the goal of our Center is to conduct these studies.

*Sponsored by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and the Goldman School of Public Policy, University of California
Photo Credits

• Home >