SGER: Human Responses to Changing Climate in Alaska and Nepal: Comparisons between High Latitudes and High Altitudes

Huntington Consulting, Eagle River AK

Investigators

Abstract

Inter-regional comparative research on the human dimensions of global environmental change is important but underdeveloped. This project is an exploratory research project to conduct an initial comparison between high latitudes (Alaska) and high altitudes (Nepal) with regard to the nature and impacts of climate change, particularly through changes to the cryosphere (glaciers in Nepal; sea ice, permafrost, and glaciers in Alaska). Both regions are experiencing rapid environmental change, with significant impacts and potential impacts on indigenous peoples and traditional practices. The project entails a series of exploratory research site visits between Nepalese and Alaska scientists in order to create a comparative framework from which to investigate the impacts of global climate change.