Human activity and climate variability project

Abstract

ANSTO has developed unique expertise and built a strong capability in Australia (and indeed in the Asian-Pacific region) in nuclear techniques applied to study natural processes. Capabilities include isotope-dating techniques, trace element analysis of aerosol particles and the use of radon-isotopes as a tracer for large-scale air movement. This enables ANSTO to collaborate in, and indeed lead/co-ordinate large interdisciplinary teams to address questions arising from the effects of human activities on the climate system and to distinguish between human impact and climate variability. Such a team was utilised in the Human Activity and Climate Variability Project, which commenced in July 1999.