The Australian Academy of Science was today encouraged by CSIRO’s announced changes to its future climate research capacity but still has some concerns about planned changes that affect the nation’s science capabilities.
Australia’s national science organisation has announced a special climate centre to offset some of the losses in climate science expertise foreshadowed earlier this year. The new centre will be based in Hobart and has secure funding for ten years.
“We congratulate those responsible for brokering this compromise which will maintain some essential components of the CSIRO’s climate research capacity for at least the next decade,” said President of the Australian Academy of Science Professor Andrew Holmes.
“Australia’s flagship agency has been under significant funding pressures in recent years and this has meant its capacity in key research areas related to the delivery of public good research has been reduced. This diminished capability for science in the national interest should be of concern to all Australians,” he said.
“The CSIRO is one of the best resources Australia has for research into national problems and the development of local solutions, while also providing respected and valued contributions at regional and global levels. We need a national debate on how to deliver the best science in the interests of the Australian public.”
To develop better information on the state of climate research in Australia, including its strengths and challenges, the Academy of Science is commencing a review of climate science capabilities. The Academy intends to consult extensively with scientists and other stakeholders as part of this review.
“We hope this will form the basis of a more strategic view of climate science in Australia that outlines where and how this can best be developed and applied for Australia’s future,” Professor Holmes said.
Professor Andrew Holmes is available for interview. Please contact Bella Counihan on 0419212219.
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