Which climate futures are possible and which are plausible That’s the overarching question driving the Exzellenzcluster Climate Climate Change and Society CLICCS right here in Hamburg. This isn’t just another research center. CLICCS is a powerhouse a collaborative effort between the University of Hamburg and major partner institutions. Since 2019 it has been funded by the German government and the German Research Foundation as part of their Excellence Strategy.
CLICCS isn’t just about studying the climate. It’s about understanding how climate change affects society and vice versa. It’s about recognizing the complex feedback loops between our planet and its inhabitants. The researchers explore everything from the basic dynamics of the climate system to the social dynamics influencing climate change. They investigate societal possibilities and limitations. They offer suggestions for sustainable adaptation strategies. They even delve into the societal requirements for lasting decarbonization.
Imagine the scale. Around 220 people from diverse disciplines are involved. They tackle this challenge head-on. They produce regular publications in the Hamburg Climate Futures Outlook. These address crucial questions like the plausibility of global decarbonization by 2050. They look at what influences the plausibility of achieving the Paris Agreement’s temperature goals.
CLICCS is organized into four interconnected research areas. Area A focuses on climate sensitivity and variability. Area B examines climate-related dynamics within social systems. Area C concentrates on sustainable adaptation scenarios. Finally Area ABC-X Extremes investigates interactions between the atmosphere ocean land and societal levels such as governments media or markets.
The impact is real. A recent study from CLICCS researchers showed that the actual social cost of CO2 emissions is far higher than previously thought. At least 270 euros per metric ton to be exact. This highlights the crucial role of CLICCS’s work. It pushes the boundaries of climate research. It shapes our understanding of the future. It seeks to provide the knowledge needed for effective climate action. CLICCS doesn’t just study climate change it actively works towards a more sustainable future. A future where the climate futures we create are both possible and plausible. This cluster isn’t just about research. It’s about hope. It’s about action. It’s about shaping a future where our planet can thrive.