About the event

The year 2024 marks 200 years since the French mathematician and physicist, Joseph Fourier, hypothesised what is known as the greenhouse effect. Fourier wondered why the planet does not continue to warm up as it receives sunlight and why the Earth’s average temperature is maintained at approximately 15°C. His monumental work provided us with an understanding of how atmospheric gases trap heat. Fourier reasoned that there must be a mechanism that regulates the temperature and balances the incoming and outgoing energy. His answer to this is what came to be known as the greenhouse effect. The greenhouse effect maintains the planet’s temperature, which is essential for sustaining life on Earth. However, intensive human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels, have led to global warming. This has caused widespread concern that increased concentrations of greenhouse gases will have disastrous consequences if no action is taken.

To mark the 200th anniversary of Joseph Fourier’s work on the greenhouse effect, we are organising a conference that will bring together leading scientists, researchers, and policymakers from all backgrounds to convene and share their expertise and insights regarding the impact of the greenhouse effect on climate, agriculture, the environment, and human health. We aim to explore the multi-faceted dimensions of climate change, addressing its widespread impact on ecosystems, communities, and the global landscape. It also serves as a vital platform for researchers, industrialist, practitioners, and educators to present the latest innovations, research, and trends in the field of climate change.

Joseph Fourier

With a series of talks from expert speakers, this three-day event will facilitate discussions that showcase strategies to achieve net-zero targets and approaches to tackling climate change. Join us as we commemorate the extraordinary journey spanning 200 years since Fourier’s ground-breaking insights. The International Conference on the Greenhouse Effect and Climate Change: 200 Years Since Joseph Fourier marks an essential moment to reflect on the evolution of the greenhouse effect.