Sub-chapter 2.4.2. Mediterranean ecosystems facing global change

Introduction Mediterranean-type ecosystems (MTEs) cover a small fraction of the terrestrial component of the Earth, and their functioning is driven by a recurrent summer drought concomitant with the hottest temperatures. Climate projections by general circulation models (GCM) under RCP 6.0 and 8.5 scenarios collectively forecast substantial drying and warming in regions surrounding the Mediterranean Sea, especially in summer (Schleussner et al 2016). MTEs are expected to be highly responsive ..

The Mediterranean region under climate change

This book has been published by Allenvi (French National Alliance for Environmental Research) to coincide with the 22nd Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP22) in Marrakesh. It is the outcome of work by academic researchers on both sides of the Mediterranean and provides a remarkable scientific review of the mechanisms of climate change and its impacts on the environment, the economy, health and Mediterranean societies. It will also be valuable in developing responses that draw on “scientific evidence” to address the issues of adaptation, resource conservation, solutions and risk prevention. Reflecting the full complexity of the Mediterranean environment, the book is a major scientific contribution to the climate issue, where various scientific considerations converge to break down the boundaries between disciplines