DialogueON: Climate Science and Policy - “We Are All Connected”

The Science Behind the Interconnection of the Earth

In our February DialogueON event, we explored different concepts of climate science, discussed how the interconnections between the different elements of the Earth affect our lives as humans, and how our awareness of science can turn into practical actions and policy.

Our speaker, Dr. Angela Chia-Chun Liang, walked us through some core climate science concepts as proof for the interconnectivity of all of us on Earth. First, Angela explained the Earth’s interconnected spheres (atmosphere, hydrosphere, geosphere, biosphere) and the importance of these spheres in our daily lives and how they shape our climate, ecosystem, ocean, and lands. Atmosphere refers to layers of gases (mainly nitrogen and oxygen) that regulate temperature and protect us from direct solar energy. Hydrosphere includes all water on Earth (liquid, ice, vapor) and is essential for life and climate regulation. Geosphere refers to the solid Earth from soil to interior and it drives plate tectonics, volcanism, and the rock cycle. Biosphere includes all living organisms and ecosystems they live in.

Angela pointed out that our Earth is a mostly closed system, meaning that mostly no physical materials exchange between the Earth and outer space, but there is active energy exchange between our planet and outer space. What it essentially means is that our planet recycles and reuses everything - water, air, nutrients, and more. For example, the particles of the water in your cup could come from a place where you have never been before, like deep ocean or river in another country, and the particles might have started their journey to your cup a thousand years ago. This is why we are all interconnected.

Another concept Angela introduced was the Earth’s energy budget. She explained how the energy flows on Earth, starting from the sun, and then moving onto the greenhouse effect, and finally showing how to mathematically tie the global temperature to changes in Earth’s energy and greenhouse gases. National borders and who you are do not matter in terms of energy flow and budget. Angela left us with a powerful takeaway message: understanding what's going on with the Earth is exactly what gives us the power to make changes. In the event, we explored some ways to make these changes: science communication, science advocacy, science policy, and science diplomacy.

Our Participants’ Contributions

During the open discussion part, all our attendees engaged in an inspiring conversation around real-world examples of the Earth’s interconnectedness and changes in the interactions between the different spheres of our ecosystems that they observe in their communities. They pointed out that environmental changes can influence changes in other societal aspects of our lives, such as gender, education, or the local economy. 

For example, one participant from Ghana shared: “I see our lives interconnected through climate, food, and water. For instance, when rivers dry up (environment), women and children spend more time fetching water (social), which affects education and work (economy). Over time, these pressures have grown.” Another example of the interconnections came from Rwanda: “Rwanda is a mountainous country, so during heavy rains, water can cause soil erosion and landslides. This damages crops, homes, and infrastructure. But when terraces are built on hillsides and trees are planted, the soil is protected and water flows more safely without causing destruction.”  

We also focused on ways in which we can help our planet using the power of science and understanding facts. Participants told us about the different projects and initiatives they implement in their communities to restore and protect the natural balance in our ecosystem. Many mentioned the importance of science advocacy, education based on facts, involving young people and local communities in the conversation, and promoting scientific approaches in policy-making. The need for continuing open dialogues on these issues. was also emphasized. Together, we concluded that understanding the different spheres of the Earth, the connections between its different elements, and the role of us as humans in this system can make climate conversations practical and actionable for communities and help our dialogues deliver even better results.

~Angela, Naomi & Zuzanna