Science answers rational, practical needs; art the personal and aesthetic ones - David Karoly

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It is important to remember that while we need the rational, practical knowledge of science, we also need the unique personal, aesthetic responses that art provides,” David Karoly writes on The Conversation.

David Karoly.

The Professor of Atmospheric Science at University of Melbourne says, “These responses can engage the personal values and emotions that are so crucial to motivate action.”

Professor Karoly, who has long been a champion of climate change advocates said, “Today, scientists and policy makers are struggling in some countries to gain the support that will lead to meaningful action on climate change and other environmental challenges.

“A vast body of evidence shows that human influences on the global climate are clear. Without rapid, substantial and sustained efforts to reduce human-caused emissions of greenhouse gases, we risk severe, pervasive and irreversible impacts on ecosystems and society,” he writes.

His story - “Climate science is looking to art to create change” – comes in the shadow of evidence that Australia has been identified as one of the developed countries most at risk from the adverse impacts of climate change.