You may see the term 'climatologist' used interchangeably with 'meteorologist', but there are some distinct differences to take note of. The difference between a climatologist and a meteorologist is that meteorologists study short-term weather patterns and climatologists study long-term weather patterns.
Long-term climate change affects every aspect of our lives and the environment, so climatology is crucial in helping to sustain and preserve the world's ecosystems.
The smallest variations to wind speed, precipitation, or even the migratory patterns of animals can be strong indicators for climatologists of climate change. There are also numerous sub-sections of climatology. As a climatologist, you may study the connection between historical climate trends to predict what could happen in the future. In this case, you’d be a paleoclimatologist.
Climatologists must be strong problem-solvers. As a climatologist, you apply research and data to address climate problems and suggest efficient ways to improve performance so we’re well prepared for different weather conditions.
Climatologists have to opportunity to work with or as a weather forecaster, utilizing measurement tools and statistical software to improve accuracy, conduct weather simulations and present findings in a clear and concise manner to the public.
Climatologist jobs can be found in government agencies, academic and research institutions, environmental consulting firms, and non-governmental organizations.
As conversations on climate change grow, so are the myths surrounding it. You may have heard false statements like ‘global warming isn’t real because it’s still cold.’
Climatologists play a very important role in the direction of climate change. They may collaborate with organizations and firms to help lessen the impacts of their business practices on the environment. They can also act as educators to make the rest of us aware of how our actions directly affect the climates in which we live.
The process of urbanization is one area where climatologists are needed. Growing populations means expanding cities which creates a need for more space.
Larger homes are built, commercial and residential areas sprout up and more energy is consumed. Making space for humans may come at the cost of displacing wildlife and can lead to negative ecological actions such as deforestation which forces wildlife out of their natural habitats.
Climatologists understand that the modernization of urban areas directly affects both regional and global climates. This could be through creating microclimates that see more heat in certain areas. As a climatologist, you’d study the change of such areas over time.
