SciDev.Net
Science and Development Network
News, views and information about science, technology and the developing world
Definitions
P
Particulates
Tiny pieces of solid or liquid matter, such as soot, dust, fumes, or mist, that can be suspended in the atmosphere.
Photosynthesis
The process by which green plants use light to synthesise organic compounds from carbon dioxide and water. In the process oxygen and water are released. Increased levels of carbon dioxide can increase net photosynthesis in some plants. Plants create a very important reservoir for carbon dioxide.
Precautionary Approach
The approach promoted under the Framework Convention of Climate Change to help achieve stabilisation of greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that would prevent dangerous interference with the climate system. The ‘precautionary principle’ is often used to describe a strategy which is based on the argument that the potential price of not taking action can outweigh the cost of taken an action, even when scientific uncertainty exists about the need and likely outcome.
Information Services
Missed the Global Health Forum 2009?
Our blog, by SciDev.Net columnist Priya Shetty, will fill you in, as will our interview with the Global Forum's Gill Samuels
Clean cooperation
Countries must cooperate to develop clean technologies. Joint technology innovation centres can help
Just add water
Policymakers must improve water storage to help developing countries adapt to climate change
A climate for disease?
Will climate change worsen the burden of insect-borne disease? The scientific jury is still out
