Global Climate Change: Principles, Implications and Challenges

Climate change is complex, contentious at times and one of the most defining environmental issues of the 21st century. The broad scope of this subject, as well as prevalent disinformation, can make it complicated to separate fact from fiction. The goal of this course is to present the audience with not only the most accurate scientific information, but also an explanation of how these principles come together using real-world examples and predictive computer models. We will define climate change in relation to global warming concepts, discuss natural and human-driven causes, underlying theories, the possible effects of change on the global climate, economic implications, and review climate change policies and the implementation of related directives. Moreover, this course will review intractable political challenges and the possible investments needed to study — and tackle — this growing issue over the next few decades. Weekly topics will be presented in an interactive and engaging format that includes model generated images, videos and thought-provoking questions for audience members to ponder and explore.

Grady Hanrahan, PhD, is a professor of Chemistry at California Lutheran University (CLU). He received his PhD in Environmental Analytical Chemistry from the University of Plymouth, England. Hanrahan’s research interests span instrumentation design and development, chemometrics, environmental analysis, and the use of swarm intelligence metaheuristics to model complex chemical and biological systems.

Registration required, courses are $40 each.

Fifty and Better was designed to offer university-level courses and lectures (no tests, no homework) taught by experts in the field, and to host social engagement activities for people aged 50 and older.

Register

Register by Sept. 2 by 12 p.m.