Advancing the science of climate change : America's Climate Choices … Division on Earth and Life Studies National Research Council of the National Academies Advancing the Science of Climate Change presents the compelling case that climate change is occurring, is caused largely by human activities, and poses significant risks for - and in many cases is already affecting - a broad range of human and natural systems. The book reviews the current scientific evidence regarding climate change and examines the status of the nation's scientific research efforts, including the critical role that climate change science can play in developing and improving options for responding to climate change. Climate research has historically been driven by a need to better understand the basic causes and consequences of climate change. Increasingly, decision makers are also demanding scientific information on the development and implementation of climate-friendly energy sources and land-use practices, adaption strategies, analytical approaches to evaluate tradeoffs and unintended consequences of actions, socioeconomic and behavioral processes that affect responses, policy mechanisms, and other response issue. Advancing the Science of Climate Change identifies climate-related decisions being made in 12 sectors, ranging from agriculture to urban infrastructure to national security, and reviews both what is known and key research needs in each of these areas. Advancing the Science of Climate Change introduces seven cross-cutting research themes that should be included in the nation's climate change research enterprise, and recommends a number of actions to advance the science of climate change. These actions include the deployment of a comprehensive climate observing system, improved models and other analytical tools, investment in human capital, and improved linkages between research and decision making. The report also calls for a single federal entity or program to coordinate a national, multidisciplinary research effort aimed at improving both understanding and responses to climate change.