Bridging the Gap Between Climate Science and Policy

There’s a growing disconnect between what climate scientists understand about drought and what policymakers and industry leaders are planning for. Toby Ault, associate professor in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and a faculty fellow at the Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability, explores an ambitious effort to bridge that gap — bringing together climate experts, private sector practitioners, and public decision-makers to better anticipate and prepare for the risks posed by prolonged drought in a warming world.

From the impact on energy grids and real estate to healthcare and insurance pricing, drought doesn’t just dry up water — it reshapes entire systems. Hear how this Cornell Atkinson project is helping Cornell scientists translate data into actionable insights, and why collaboration across sectors is crucial for climate resilience.