Articles in 2012

Wave-resistant algal rims—chiefly composed of carbonate from crustose coralline algae—form critical structures for the survival of many shallow coral reefs, raising concerns about the susceptibility of these protective structures to ocean acidification. Research now shows that dolomite-rich frameworks—common in shallow coral reefs globally—are likely to persist as carbon dioxide increases.

Understanding public engagement with climate change in developing countries is critical for the success of local adaptation strategies. A study in Indonesia shows that nearly one-third of the population has observed and perceived risks of climate change—contrary to previous research suggesting low levels of awareness—but has not taken action to address it.

The latest carbon dioxide emissions continue to track the high end of emission scenarios, making it even less likely global warming will stay below 2 °C. A shift to a 2 °C pathway requires immediate significant and sustained global mitigation, with a probable reliance on net negative emissions in the longer term.

Climate change is threatening marine biodiversity in two ways—temperature increases and acidification. This study demonstrates that from 1960 to 2009 North Atlantic calcifying plankton primarily responded to temperature changes. Plankton communities showed an abrupt shift circa 1996, a time of a substantial temperature increase, and some taxa exhibited a poleward movement in agreement with expected biogeographical changes under ocean warming. Although acidification may become a serious threat to marine calcifiers, over the study period the primary driver of spatial distribution was ocean temperature.

Research in America finds that observable climate impacts increase people’s certainty about global warming and that prior certainty shapes people’s perceptions of the impacts. The first process happens frequently among people less engaged in the issue of climate change whereas the second process is typical of people already convinced about it.

Nations will eventually reach a robust and long-lasting compromise on climate, but any agreement reached must be fair on the world's poorest people.

A web focus spotlights some of the potential impacts of climate change on the world's water resources.

Decision-makers need to be able to respond to the question 'how much adaptation is enough?' even though there is seldom a simple answer.

Adaptation to climate change in fisheries is occurring very rapidly. Research now shows that it is a complex process whose outcomes can both mitigate and exacerbate impacts on fish populations.