Some models predict that rapid (decadal-scale) climate change could occur under the scenario of global warming that is likely to happen over the next century. The Atlantic Ocean's thermohaline circulation (THC) is thought to have played a key role in rapid changes in the past and to have the potential to do so in the future, although other processes may also cause rapid climate change to occur.

This conference will explore the scientific understanding of rapid climate change, with a main but not exclusive focus on the role of the THC in such change.

The conference is based around four themes, each with its own session in the four-day programme.

The topics of interest include, but are not limited to:

• present day observations of the strength and structure of the Atlantic THC
• paleo data (ice, land, ocean) on past rapid climate changes
• modelling of past and possible future rapid climate change
• understanding of processes controlling the strength of THC
• testing models using present day and paleo observations
• impacts of rapid THC change on climate and weather
• probability of rapid climate changing occurring
• impacts of rapid climate change on society

The conference seeks to bring together the international community of scientists carrying out oceanographic observations, paleo studies and ocean and coupled climate modelling in order to discuss recent research findings and to identify outstanding problems and ways forward in the science of rapid climate change.