Abstract

Global change refers to changes in Earth system – including physical, chemical, and biological processes in the lithosphere (land), atmosphere (air), hydrosphere (water) and biosphere (living things). Humans are part of the Earth system, with significant impacts on natural physical processes and biogeochemical cycles. The concept of the Anthropocene was initially proposed on the basis of global change studies, as scientists became more aware that human activities may rival natural processes. Global change studies that focus on the Anthropocene help us better understand how the Earth system responds to human forcing, and how these responses will shape our future.