PALEOSIM Unveils Groundbreaking Climate And Ecology Research At Esplora
PALEOSIM was a pioneering research initiative focused on studying the impact of climate change on arthropods, particularly insects, on small islands. These creatures play a crucial role in ecosystems as pollinators and decomposers, but human-induced changes, such as habitat destruction and climate shifts, have had devastating effects on their populations. Small islands, with their unique and often fragile ecosystems, have been especially vulnerable.
By using advanced climate simulations, PALEOSIM examined how the Mediterranean climate has evolved over the past 21,000 years. These insights provide a better understanding of how past changes have shaped current ecosystems and what can be expected in the future. The project also focused on making these scientific findings accessible to the public, leading to the creation of an engaging science show in collaboration with Esplora.
This new show is set to be integrated into Esplora’s Educational Programme by the 2025/26 academic year, ensuring that the research will continue to inspire and educate future generations.
Led by Dr James Ciarlo, a climate scientist at the University of Malta’s Institute of Earth Systems, PALEOSIM was conducted in collaboration with the Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP) in Trieste (under UNESCO) and Esplora (under the Ministry for Education, Sport, Youth, Research and Innovation). Dr Ciarlo, who received the prestigious Marie Sklodowska Curie Postdoctoral Fellowship Grant from Horizon Europe, spent the final six months of the project at Esplora, working on the development of the new science show that raises awareness about climate change and the important role arthropods play in the ecosystem.
Speaking at the event, Esplora Director James Catania described PALEOSIM as a perfect example of Esplora’s commitment to making advanced research accessible to the public in an interactive and inclusive way.
University of Malta Pro-Rector for Research & Knowledge Transfer, Prof. Ing. Simon Fabri, highlighted the project as a demonstration of the high-quality research being conducted at the university, contributing to a better scientific understanding of climate change and helping shape effective conservation strategies.
Dr James Ciarlo explained that PALEOSIM brings ancient climates to life through simulations and art, offering the next generation a new perspective on environmental challenges and the importance of climate action.
After more than two years of research, PALEOSIM has provided valuable insights into the effects of climate change on small island ecosystems while also ensuring that these findings reach the wider public. The launch of the science show at Esplora marks a lasting impact, making climate science more engaging and accessible for all.
For more details on PALEOSIM and Esplora’s new science show, visit www.esplora.org.mt and www.um.edu.mt/projects/paleosim/
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