In a concerning development, leading climate scientists in New Zealand are sounding the alarm about a potential funding drought for extreme weather research. This comes at a critical juncture when the country is experiencing the very real impacts of climate change through severe storms and extreme weather events.
The New Zealand Association of Scientists has backed these concerns, warning that recent changes in science investment could further divert funds away from climate research specific to New Zealand.
The government, however, maintains that it invests a significant amount in climate-related research annually, with a focus on various aspects of climate change.
Understanding Atmospheric Rivers
One of the key areas of research highlighted by Professor Dave Frame, Luke Harrington, and Suzanne Rosier is the study of atmospheric rivers. These are crucial in understanding extreme rainfall patterns in New Zealand, as they bring moisture-laden air from the tropics. Recent research has made progress in this area, but with major projects ending and little funding for future research, there is a risk of losing momentum.
Changing Storm Patterns
The scientists also emphasize the changing behavior of storms, with total rainfall concentrated in shorter timeframes. This leads to more intense and damaging weather events. Additionally, the changing climate is resulting in longer dry and drought periods, further impacting communities and ecosystems.
Large Investments, Few Answers
Previous years saw significant investments in understanding these atmospheric phenomena, but with the conclusion of these projects, many questions remain unanswered. The researchers are concerned about the lack of funding to continue this vital work, especially as New Zealanders are experiencing the harsh reality of climate change through extreme weather.
Funding Priorities and Research Gaps
While the government highlights its investment in climate-related research, a closer look reveals a gap in funding for extreme weather patterns and modelling. Only a fraction of the total funding goes towards understanding and managing these events, with a significant portion allocated to other areas of climate research, such as Antarctica and ocean studies.
The Human Factor
What makes this particularly fascinating is the human element. The way people experience climate change is through these extreme events, yet the funding seems to be skewed towards long-term, less immediate concerns. Personally, I think it's crucial to address the immediate impacts and adapt to the changing climate, especially when it's affecting communities right now.
Impact on Research Capability
The loss of funding has been exacerbated by job cuts in Earth Sciences New Zealand and universities, resulting in the loss of specialist climate modellers. This has a ripple effect, as it impacts the ability to translate global climate models into New Zealand-specific ones. Additionally, the government's decision to end Marsden funding for humanities and social science research will affect climate response work, which relies heavily on understanding human behavior and community engagement.
Shifting Priorities
The government's decision to shift funding towards advanced technologies, including AI and quantum computing, raises questions about the balance of research priorities. While these areas are important, the reallocation of funds from environmental science could have a significant impact on climate research. This shift in focus could result in a brain drain, with researchers leaving the country or the field altogether.
A Broader Perspective
From my perspective, it's crucial to consider the long-term implications of these funding decisions. The loss of institutional knowledge and research networks could set New Zealand back years, if not decades, in its climate research capabilities. This is a critical time for understanding and adapting to climate change, and the potential consequences of these funding choices should not be underestimated.
A Call for Action
As we navigate these complex issues, it's essential to keep an open dialogue and critically examine our priorities. The impacts of climate change are here, and we must ensure that our research and funding reflect the urgency of the situation. While the government has its plans and priorities, it's important to consider the broader implications and the need for a well-rounded approach to climate research and adaptation.
