WIREDGOV

We are inviting the public to submit their questions about climate change as part of our contribution to the Open Air Laboratories (OPAL) project.

Anyone who is confused or curious about climate change can send their questions via the OPAL website . Scientists from the Met Office will publish answers to as many of them as possible online, with particular emphasis on popular or trending topics.

OPAL brings science and communities together with the aim of inspiring a new generation of nature lovers and increasing environmental awareness, both locally and globally.

For many people, climate change is surrounded by myths and misunderstandings. The OPAL Climate Centre , developed by the Met Office, aims to untangle some of them.

Mark McCarthy, Climate Scientist at the Met Office said, "Weather and climate are two of the most talked about topics today. We want to help everyone understand the important issues we face, as well as answering any questions they may have.

"No question is too daft or simplistic. We want people to tell us what confuses them about climate change and we will try to widen their understanding of this difficult topic."

Learn about our climate
In addition to its 'ask the climate experts' service, the OPAL Climate Survey, developed by the Met Office in collaboration with OPAL partners, will be launched in March 2011. The survey, designed to help everyone learn about our climate and how we impact on it, will also provide scientists with data which will help them predict weather and climate patterns.

The Met Office is committed to helping people of all ages make the most of the great outdoors, and OPAL funding has enabled us to support the Scout Meteorology badge for a year. Learning about the weather and being able to recognise which clouds could produce rain or where best to shelter from the wind will help Scouts be better prepared for their outdoor activities.