From January 16, people around the world will be able to test climate change and its effects thanks to a new initiative launched by the BBC (British Broadcast Corporation). We all will then be given a (virtual) chance to stop this global and worrying concern.

The game, which will test the players' ability to drive a clean Europe from 2000 to 2100 by making smart choices affecting humanity. Among the numerous factors to be controlled for such a demanding task, the BBC has included food, water and energy production and delivery. Players will be the Politicians responsible for delivering the expected results, and they will be sacked if they fail. This seems to be, by the way, the only unrealistic part of the new game.

The software, created by Red Redemption Ltd, a leading green games developer, has been inspired by the Oxford University's Centre for the Environment. Mr Gobion Rowlands, one of the Producers of Climate Challenge explained: "As we developed the game it was amazing seeing the science come together with the strategy elements. The chance to try out different strategies was exciting and seeing the subtle interplay of different policies and technologies whilst trying to negotiate a global response was both challenging and rewarding."

In turn, Mr Ian Curtis, from Oxford University's Centre for the Environment said that “Climate Challenge has got imagination and innovation all over it – and that is exactly what the global warming issue needs …new ways of getting the guy at the next table to get playing – and then thinking. It has been fascinating to see Red Redemption wrap their gaming expertise and creativity around the climate science. Climate Challenge transforms the labours of climate policy into the skills and drama of climate poker. Next up we need Pixar, we need Madonna, we need Ali G …it can’t be just about an Al Gore documentary – as important as that is”. Even the Environment and Climate Change Minister of the UK, Mr Ian Pearson, has referred and welcomed the game, which will be available next week on the BBC.co.uk Science and Nature website (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sn/hottopics/climatechange/climate_challenge/)

For additional information:
www.bbc.co.uk