What does GCR mean in RESEARCH

GCRs include natural disasters such as pandemics, asteroid impacts, volcanic eruptions, solar storms, and extreme climate change; man-made disasters such as nuclear war, ecological destruction and destruction of critical infrastructure; and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and synthetic biology.

Experts measure the probability of a GCR occurring over a given time frame, its potential severity level in terms affected humans or the environment, and its potential for long-term consequences. They also assess the potential for international cooperation to reduce the risk of a GCR occurring.

Humanity can take steps to mitigate against Global Catastrophic Risks e.g. increasing awareness on climate change adaptation strategies, creating an international framework for nuclear disarmament or investigating ways to limit access to potentially dangerous emerging technologies. Furthermore, policy makers are looking at developing systems which would detect incoming threats in advance, allowing humanity more time to develop strategies on how to avert those threats.