KAUST ·
Carlos Duarte, a professor of Marine Science at KAUST, discusses climate change adaptation and mitigation. He was interviewed outside the KAUST Museum of Science and Technology. The interview is part of a Frontiers Research Topic on Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's focus on addressing climate change through scientific research and its engagement with international platforms like Frontiers.
KAUST ·
A KAUST-led international team has published research detailing the potential of marine-based solutions to combat climate change. The study assesses the effectiveness of 13 ocean-based measures, including reducing greenhouse gas concentrations and protecting marine ecosystems. The research will inform decision-makers at COP24. Why it matters: Highlighting the potential of ocean-based solutions can broaden the scope of climate action strategies in the region, where coastal environments and marine resources are vital.
KAUST ·
Extreme E racing series is collaborating with KAUST and the Ba'a Foundation to conserve endangered turtles in Saudi Arabia. Rising sea levels have led to a 90% mortality rate of turtle eggs in 2019, threatening the already endangered species. The collaboration aims to protect turtle nesting sites along the Red Sea coastline. Why it matters: This initiative highlights the potential for partnerships between sports, academia, and conservation organizations to address climate change impacts on vulnerable ecosystems in the region.
KAUST ·
A study co-authored by KAUST researchers and published in Science analyzes the intertwined climate and biodiversity crises, noting that human activities have altered roughly 75% of land and 66% of marine waters. Greenhouse-gas emissions amount to over 55 gigatonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent per year, with global mean temperature increased by over 1.1 degrees Celsius since the preindustrial era. The study proposes an ambitious approach including emissions reduction, restoration, and cross-institutional alliances. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's contribution to global research on pressing environmental challenges and informs strategies for regional sustainable development initiatives.
KAUST ·
A KAUST-led study analyzing over 100 years of satellite data indicates that Red Sea surface temperatures may be cooling rather than rising due to the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO). The research, utilizing KAUST's supercomputer Shaheen II, suggests a cooling phase in the coming decades that could temporarily counter global warming effects. The team collaborated with researchers from the University of Athens and the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research, using data from NOAA, NASA, and the UK Met Office. Why it matters: The finding challenges assumptions about uniform warming trends and highlights the role of natural climate oscillations in modulating regional temperature changes, informing more accurate climate modeling and adaptation strategies for the region.
KAUST ·
KAUST, AEON Collective, and KAPSARC released a report during MENA Climate Week assessing climate change impacts in Saudi Arabia under a 3°C warming scenario. The report finds that Saudi Arabia is experiencing climate change at an accelerated pace, with potential temperature increases of up to 5.6°C by the end of the century. It highlights the need for policy choices and adaptation strategies to mitigate impacts on ecosystems, urban environments, and human health. Why it matters: This comprehensive analysis provides critical insights for Saudi Arabia to inform its climate policies and adaptation efforts, addressing challenges like coral bleaching, desert expansion, and increased health risks.
KAUST ·
KAUST is accepting proposals for the Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) 2016 until May 4th, 2015. The program, scheduled for January 10-21, 2016, focuses on climate change and sustainability, aligning with the 2015 United Nations Climate Change Conference. The KAUST community can submit ideas for lectures, courses, workshops, and cultural activities. Why it matters: This interdisciplinary program fosters community engagement at KAUST while addressing a critical global issue.
MBZUAI ·
IBM and MBZUAI have partnered to create an AI Center of Excellence, with the goal of driving sustainability in the region. The center will use AI to monitor, model, and visualize climate change, providing decision-makers with data to address issues like the urban heat island effect. Dr. Fahad Khan, Dr. Salman Khan, and Dr. Levente Klein from MBZUAI are leading the research. Why it matters: This collaboration highlights the UAE's commitment to using AI to tackle critical climate challenges and supports the upcoming COP28 in Dubai.