Global warming poses an extraordinary challenge. The world's leading atmospheric scientists tell us that a gradual warming of our climate is underway and will continue. This long-term warming trend poses serious risks to our economy and our environment. This warming trend poses even greater risks to many other nations, particularly poorer countries that will be far less able to cope with a changing climate and low-lying countries where sea level rise will cause significant damage. Meeting the challenge of global warming will require sustained effort over decades -

• On the part of governments, who must establish the rules and modify them as we learn more of the science, and as technological solutions begin to manifest themselves;
• On the part of industry, who must innovate, manufacture, and operate under a new paradigm where climate change will drive many decisions; and
• On the part of the public, who must also switch to a more climate-friendly path in their purchases and lifestyles.

On the long road ahead, the Pew Center on Global Climate Change is dedicated to providing credible information, straight answers, and innovative solutions to address global warming. This section includes The Pew Center's multi-faceted research and comprehensive analysis on global warming science, economics, policy, and solutions. We hope that our work will help you contribute to meeting the complex challenge of global warming.