GEWEX and its new Grand Science Questions

As result of the reorganization of the World Climate Research Programme as a whole the Global Energy and Water Exchanges (GEWEX) project has also been subject to considerable changes mostly in its focus areas called the Grand Science Questions. Observation of the energy and water exchanges and states at various scales is critical in predicting changes in our environment and managing these. Changes will have direct consequences for our natural and social environment e.g. for our water resources. Within GEWEX the global energy and water cycle is the main focus of attention. Changes at the global scale will have consequences at the regional scale and vice versa. The Grand Science Questions must be specific and focused, while identifying ways to advance the science, and it must resonate among agencies, program managers, and the public. These Challenges must also provide vehicles to encourage the different GEWEX panels to interact in pursuing a common goal and provide a way forward that is tractable, (e.g., via new observations and computer and model advancements). It must also address possible benefits and impacts and links to issues related to food, water, health, energy, and biodiversity. Four GEWEX Grand Science Questions (GSQs) have been identified where progress can be made and the science community believes are ripe for progress provided that adequate resources are provided. Some prospects for advancement are already paid for and likely to occur, but others require agencies to step up to fund such advances. International coordination via GEWEX can makes the whole greater than the sum of its parts.

• Observations and Predictions of Precipitation • Global Water Resource Systems • Changes in Extremes • Water and energy cycles In this presentation a short overview of the various science themes will be explored.