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Information - GM1 Glacial erosion, landscape evolution and global change (co-listed in CR)
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Event Information |
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Glaciation has the potential to influence denudational and sediment transfer processes that figure prominently in discussions of landscape evolution and global climate change. In active tectonic settings, glaciation is widely assumed to result in sustained high rates of erosion that have the potential to influence climate by accelerating silicate weathering and hence the sequestration of atmospheric CO2. In addition, isostatic compensation as a result of enhanced rates of valley incision during glaciation has been suggested to influence climate through the uplift of mountain summits. The foundations of such scenarios are, however, uncertain: reliable rates of glacial erosion are difficult to obtain, understanding of the mechanisms of glacial erosion remains poor, and uncertainty surrounds the applicability of field- and theoretically-based studies at different spatial and temporal scales. Perhaps even less is known about the dynamics of erosion and sediment transfer beneath large ice sheets that may similarly influence silicate weathering rates and topographic development in passive tectonic settings. As a result, the role of glaciation in landscape evolution and its effects on global climate, as well as the timescales required, are difficult to quantify. We solicit field- and/or theoretically-based scientific contributions that seek to further understanding of glacial erosional processes and quantify their role in landscape evolution over a broad range of spatial and temporal scales. In particular, we seek contributions that quantify and link glacial erosion, landscape evolution and global change. Such links might range from the role of glacial erosion in the development, morphology and structure of mountain belts, to its impact on continent-to-ocean sediment and/or silicate weathering fluxes and global climate. Contributions that integrate or seek to reconcile theoretical and/or field observations at contrasting spatial and temporal scales are especially welcomed.
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Preliminary List of Solicited Speakers |
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