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In addressing the potential impacts of climate change on the coastal zone, the CSIR's André Theron and Hardus Diedericks are building an accurate profile response model for improved understanding of interconnected coastal/ physical processes such as the interaction between sea-level rise and changing storm intensities.
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In the case study on environmental health Dr Caradee Wright and Dr Jane Olwoch investigate methods to bridge the gap between traditional health concerns and a changing climate. The study focuses on malaria in South Africa's Limpopo Province.
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At the SARVA Users' Workshop, global change researchers presented six case studies to illustrate how the information in the Atlas could potentially be used to inform decision-making and policy formulation.
Headed by the CSIR's Dr Caradee Wright and the University Of Pretoria's Dr Jane Olwoch, the researchers are currently preparing these case studies for inclusion in the Atlas.
The scientists explained how they were using relevant data in their research, which illustrated to the delegates how they would be able to access and use the information available in the Atlas. The information will equip SARVA stakeholders to make informed decisions about matters relating to global change and adaptation.
"The Atlas will not only feature vector maps," says SARVA project manager Dr Rebecca Maserumule, "but will also include elements such as narrative and images to make it more educational and user-friendly. The case studies will form part of the narrative to demonstrate in a practical way how the information contained in the Atlas could assist SARVA stakeholders in their decision-making."
The case studies deal with issues such as environmental health, potential impacts of climate change on the coastal zone, adapting to climate change in a diverse landscape, building resilience to climate variability and change in the City of Joburg, climate change and water resources, and climate change implications for water and land use within the agricultural sector of the Garden Route.
In conclusion Maserumule said that the case studies will facilitate a virtual exploration of global change impacts, risk and vulnerability, as well as adaptation and mitigation strategies.
"Via the case studies our stakeholders will be able to explore synergies and apply relevant scientific principles underpinning the case studies to their own local adaptation strategies and implementation plans," Maserumule explained.
In turn, users will feed the results of their projects into the Atlas data repository, which will not only cut down on duplication and drive down costs, but will also ensure that best practices are shared.
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