Fundamentals of Climate Science
Learn to measure and compare the climate impacts of different greenhouse gases, clear up misconceptions about emissions, and understand what’s needed to stabilize the climate.
Created by —
Terra.do
Created by the Terra.do learning team and overseen by the Climate Fellowship editorial group and the Academic Advisory Board.
Introductory level
No prior knowledge is required, but an interest in climate science and greenhouse gas emissions is desirable.
Flexible schedule
Learn according to your schedule with fully asynchronous learning
Foundational
Build foundational knowledge about climate change and climate science
4 weeks / 2 hours per week
Expected commitment. We will help keep yourself accountable with timely check-ins
Course overview
Understanding the climate impacts of different greenhouse gases is crucial for effective climate action. This course unpacks how scientists measure and compare emissions, addressing common misconceptions about their relative importance. You’ll explore the complexities of combining different types of emissions, the science behind global warming potentials, and how these insights inform climate policy and mitigation strategies.
Beyond measurement, the course examines how much we need to reduce emissions to stabilize the climate. Through expert insights and real-world case studies, you’ll gain a clear understanding of the role of carbon dioxide, methane, and other gases in driving climate change—and what it will take to curb their impact effectively.
Skills you will learn
Measuring greenhouse gas impacts
Learn how different greenhouse gases are quantified and compared using global warming potential (GWP) and other metrics.
Understanding emissions trade-offs
Explore the relative importance of curbing COâ‚‚, methane, and other gases, and how they contribute to climate change differently
Evaluating emissions reduction strategies
Analyze how much emissions need to be cut to stabilize the climate and the policies guiding these reductions
Debunking emissions misconceptions
Gain clarity on common misunderstandings around greenhouse gas comparisons and climate targets.
Who is this course for?
Climate policy professionals
Those shaping policies and regulations who need a solid grasp of emissions measurement and reduction strategies
Sustainability & ESG leaders
Professionals working in corporate sustainability, carbon accounting, or emissions reporting
Scientists & researchers
Individuals studying climate change and looking to refine their understanding of greenhouse gas impacts.
Journalists & educators
Communicators who need to accurately convey the complexities of emissions and climate targets to the public
Course syllabus
Foundations of Climate Science
Foundations of Climate Science – Learn the basics of climate change, the Earth’s energy balance, the greenhouse effect, and how human activities impact the climate
Climate Science in Action
Explore how scientists measure climate change, including key observations, COâ‚‚ tracking, temperature analysis, and data collection methods
Understand how climate models work, the role of statistics in climate science, and the key organizations driving global climate research
Climate Models and Organizations
Emissions and the Carbon Cycle
Examine how emissions are measured, the global carbon cycle, emissions accounting, and how we compare different greenhouse gases
You won't learn alone
Join monthly live office hours with the course creator and fellow learners.
- Ask your questions live
- Get direct feedback from the instructor
- Connect with peers taking the course with you
- Learn from others' questions
- Get access to the recording if you miss it
- Keep lifetime access
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Meet the course creator
Terra.do
Created by the Terra.do learning team and overseen by the Climate Fellowship editorial group and the Academic Advisory Board.
Terra.do is a global climate learning and careers platform dedicated to equipping professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to drive climate action. Through expert-led courses, interactive learning experiences, and a vibrant community, Terra.do empowers individuals across industries to transition into and thrive in climate-focused roles. With a mission to get 100 million people working on climate solutions, the platform connects learners with real-world opportunities in sustainability, policy, climate finance, and beyond.
We collaborate with industry experts, practitioners, and organizations to deliver high-impact programs covering key climate topics. Whether through deep-dive fellowships, specialized courses, or our extensive climate job board, we serve as a trusted resource for professionals seeking to make a meaningful impact in the fight against climate change.
Learn the skills and find the community to work on climate
Take expert-led courses, join a global network, and work on real climate solutions.
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