Reassessing climate variability through geological time: implications for environmental management and hazard mitigation

Abstract

Present-day landscapes and biomes result from interactions among climate, landform dynamics, and atmospheric processes, driving environmental risks such as soil erosion, hydrological changes, and land degradation. Geological records show transitions between cool-cold and temperatewarm climate cycles, shaping both landforms and ecosystems. The geopaleontological record, from deep geological time to present, shows climate as the cumulative result of tens of thousands of years of sub-climate phenomena, which stem from weather events unfolding over decades to centuries. These long-term records provide vital context for assessing geological hazards and guiding sustainable land and water management. Geological evidence shows that climatic fluctuations occur over millennial time scales, far beyond the lifespan of any organism and human influence. This reveals the inadequacy of current meteorological and climatic definitions, which overlook geological complexities. A precise redefinition is needed, distinguishing decadal, centennial, and millennial phenomena to prevent flawed definitions that misguide climate mitigation efforts. Revising meteorological terminology would refocus efforts on adapting to climate realities and implementing effective land and water management policies. This study emphasizes adaptive management integrating geological and climatic data. Clear definitions of climate, sub-climate, and meteorological events at global, regional, and local levels are vital for forecasting risks and promoting sustainable solutions.