Science Cafe Orlando

Since civilization began some 6000 years ago, the mean temperature of Earth has not varied more than 1°C from the average. The change in temperature of between 1.5 and 4°C (2.7 to 7°F), forecasted for the next hundred years, has no equal in the recent history of the planet. Several natural phenomena do contribute to climate change and most of the past changes in climate can be explained by a combination of them. However, none of these natural phenomena, individually or collectively, explain today’s rapid climate changes. In the short (in terms of geologic time) period that people have inhabited Earth, we have brought about massive changes in the environment, which have had a significant impact on Earth’s climate. Dr. Richard Snow and Dr. Mary Snow examine the evidence and effects of climate change as well as the well-orchestrated attempt to create controversy and disseminate misinformation regarding global warming.

Drs. Richard and Mary Snow are both Associate Professors of Meteorology at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, and doctors of physical geography with specialties in life sciences. They present research to numerous professional organizations (such as American Meteorological Society, National Weather Association, National Council for Geographic Education, and Association of American Geographers) and published many peer-reviewed papers and refereed-journal articles.

Post-talk notes:

• Union of Concerned Scientists
• ExxonMobil Report: Smoke Mirrors & Hot Air
• slides (PDF) (MSFT PPT)