Mathematics of Planet Earth

Planetary challenges such as climate change, ecological shifts, and sustainable living are pressing societal needs of our times. Some of these challenges are already being addressed with sophisticated mathematical tools, others appear to be ripe for stronger mathematical involvement. What are the roles that the mathematical sciences and the mathematical community can play in addressing such needs? Are there new opportunities for research, for interdisciplinary collaborations, and for mathematical education and outreach? How can mathematical methods and results lead to decisions that benefit all?

The panel will address these questions, enumerating a wide spectrum of topics of potential applications of mathematics in planetary issues and presenting a few concrete problems in more detail. The panel will also discuss how to make this range of problems more accessible and attractive to mathematicians, with special emphasis on young researchers. Finally, the panelists will share ideas about connecting research results with decision-making.

Moderator:
Hans Engler, Georgetown University, USA, Chair of SIAM Activity Group in Mathematics of Planet Earth

Panelists:

Amit Apte, International Center for Theoretical Sciences India

Maria Estaban, Ceremade Paris-Dauphine

Pedro Leite da Silva Dias, Institute of Astronomy, Geophysics and Atmospheric Sciences, Sao Paulo, Brazil,

Edward Lungu, Botswana International University of Science and Technology,

Claudia Sagastizabal, IMPA, Brazil, confirmed (energy, optimization)