Complex Environmental Systems Synthesis for Earth, Life, and Society in the 21st Centur

To develop the Outlook, AC-ERE members familiarized themselves with NSF’s current portfolio of environmental activities, consulted broadly with NSF staff and the staff of other federal agencies, took into account the many community reports in environmental research areas that have been issued in the last five years, and engaged in dialogue with the scientific, engineering, and science education communities. An early draft of the Outlook was posted on the Web for public comment; the Committee received comments from 133 individuals, professional societies, advocacy groups, and local, state, and federal agencies (see Sources of Public Comment on page 65). These comments were very thoughtful and offered many insightful suggestions that have been incorporated into the Outlook. As a result, this document represents the views of a wide range of the science and engineering community.