Scientists rely on precise measurements to determine how the climate is changing. But new research finds that observations from the rest of us matter, too. Simon Fraser University scientists looked at the firsthand experiences of 92,000 people around the world specifically people who obtain their food directly by farming, hunting, or fishing. From Sweden to Bangladesh, and across every continent, most accounts bore witness to changes in temperature, rainfall, wind, floods, and animal migration patterns. The observations also identified some unexpected changes that warrant research, such as more rain in an area where scientists projected less. Co-author Valentina Savo says the study underscores that climate change is already impacting people around the world. SAVO: For these communities it’s real, and it’s happening in their own villages, and it’s happening now. The changes threaten food security and traditional culture in many of these communities. So Savo says the research team’s next mission is to dig deeper for insights on how communities are adapting. As more people share their observations, the more we can learn about climate change and the better prepared we’ll all be for what’s yet to come.
2016 Yale Climate Connections