Climate change is arguably one of the most important global issues we face in the 21st century. It is widely recognized by scientists and many policymakers as posing significant risks, not only to the environment but also to society and the global economy. Governments have been attempting to address this difficult challenge since at least 1992—cooperatively through the United Nations and through national and subnational policy. Most governments are also making plans to adapt to the climate change that is likely to occur. The outcome of any significant climate change will be varied rather than simply an overall increase in average or nocturnal temperatures. Climate researchers have designed models to predict the longer-term consequences both in air and ocean circulation patterns. This course will (in six modules) explore the facts about climate change and its impacts; potential policies to address climate change; why some governments might choose to address climate change more or less vigorously; and how sub-national governments and non-governmental actors might complement action by national governments.