GCTE Evolution GCTE is entering a new phase in its development. Over the next two years a new land centered project, here referred to as the "Land Project", will evolve as part of the new IGBP. This project will cover the areas previously dealt with by GCTE and LUCC (Land Use and Cover Change) and will be sponsored by IGBP and International Human Dimensions Program (IHDP). This evolution reflects the need for closer integration of the various elements of global change research. A Transition Panel co-chaired by Sandra Lavorel, Dennis Ojima, Lisa Graumlich, and Emilio Moran will develop a science plan in cooperation with GCTE, LUCC and other elements of the Earth Systems Science Programs. In March 2002 the GCTE SSC (Scientific Steering Committee) discussed the scoping document for the new Land Project prepared in Fort Collins, Colorado (January 2002). The SSC approved the fundamental framework of the new Project. The Land Project will be based around three questions relating to the drivers, ecosystem services and vulnerability: 1.What are the dynamics and drivers of variability and change in terrestrial human- environment (T-H-E) systems? 2.How is the provision of environmental goods and services affected by changes in the terrestrial human-environment systems? 3. What are the characteristics and dynamics of vulnerability in terrestrial human-environment systems? The SSC drafted four research themes as a suggestion to the Transition Panel (there will be made available shortly). These themes were chosen on the basis that they contributed to the fundamental research structure of the Land Project, they contributed strongly to important questions in earth systems science, they were appropriate to a Land Project within the wider IGBP and Earth Systems Science Programs, and they built upon current, productive activities within GCTE. No activity, project, task or network within GCTE needs to cease or slow down as a result of the planned transition. Over the course of the next few years research priorities may evolve but these will be dealt with as before in IGBP Core Projects. The Land Project will also be strongly based upon contributions from activities, tasks and networks. Current GCTE projects, tasks and networks will find places within the new Land Project although some may find better homes in related new elements of IGBP, such as in a new Land-Atmosphere Project. The GCTE SSC in its present form will guide GCTE activities until the end of 2003. At that time an incoming SSC drawn largely from the GCTE & LUCC research communities will become responsible for the next phase of activities. For the time being, the GCTE Canberra office, along with the Focus 1, 3 and 4 offices will continue to support GCTE activities. A GCTE Newsletter will be sent out shortly. There is more information at the highlighted web links.     GCTE Scientific Steering Committee, Sydney, March 2002        Home About News Structure Products Meetings Contacts Credits Hotlinks Sitemap