News
Thursday 17 January 2008
Long-term observation 'key' in tracking global warming and pollution
The importance of long-term observation when monitoring the effects of global warming and pollution will be highlighted by leading geographer Professor Tim Burt during a visit to Nottingham Trent University. Professor Burt has been invited to speak on the issue on 23 January in the first of the University’s 2008 Distinguished Lecture Series, which will feature talks from key industry experts on a wide range of subjects.
His lecture – Long-term monitoring of the natural environment: perceptive science or mindless monitoring? – will show how long-term observation of the natural environment has too often been dismissed as low-grade science, contributing little to our understanding. But Professor Burt will argue how the value of long observational records has recently been recognised, particularly in relation to the impact of global warming and pollution.
The lecture, being attended by experts and professionals, will use examples from across the UK to illustrate that well-designed monitoring programmes provide our best chance of studying effects that can only be identified over long periods of time. They could also be vital in revealing new questions of interest that could not be anticipated at the time the measurements began.
Case studies will cover some of the UK’s longest records of climate and water quality, and will include some blue skies thinking about heavy rainfall and floods.
ENDS
Notes for editors: Experts and professionals from across the county will attend the event on 23 Wednesday January, at 6.00pm in the University’s Sir Harry and Lady Djanogly Lecture Theatre on Shakespeare Street in the city.
Professor Burt is Professor of Geography and Master of Hatfield College at Durham University. His research interests include hydrology, geomorphology and water pollution; a recent focus has been the export of dissolved organic carbon from Pennine catchments. He is also interested in long climactic records and has run weather stations at Oxford and Durham, the two longest records for any university in the country.
The lecture is free to attend but will be ticketed. To book please email us. The lecture will be followed by a drinks reception.
Other lectures in the Distinguished Lecture Series are Sir Liam Donaldson on 27 February 2008, and The Hon Mr Justice Beatson on 16 April 2008.
Press enquiries please contact: Dave Rogers, Press Officer, on +44 (0)115 848 8782, or email dave.rogers@ntu.ac.uk.
Or Therese Easom, Press and Media Relations Manager, on +44 (0)115 848 8774, or email therese.easom@ntu.ac.uk.
