Global Analysis, Integration and Modelling

GAIM aimed at the integration of the understanding flowing from the disciplinary-oriented core projects so as to provide a holistic understanding of planetary dynamics. This Task Force differed from an "IGBP core project" in that it was a group of scientists each conducting independent research which was coordinated and integrated through the GAIM International Project Office.

GAIM Objectives

• To develop a strategy for the rapid development, evaluation, and application of comprehensive prognostic models of the global biogeochemical sub-system which could eventually be linked with models of the physical-climate sub-system
• To propose, promote and facilitate experiments with existing models or by linking subcomponent models, especially those associated with IGBP Core Projects and with WCRP efforts.
• To clarify key scientific issues facing the development of global biogeochemical models and the coupling of these models to GCMs
• To assist the IPCC process by conducting timely studies that focus upon elucidating important unresolved scientific issues associated with the changing biogeochemical cycles of the planet and upon the role of the biosphere in the physical-climate sub-system, particularly its role in the global hydrological cycle.
• To advise the IGBP-SC on progress in developing comprehensive global biogeochemical models and to maintain scientific liaisons with WCRP Steering group on global climate modeling.

After more than a decade-long effort, achieving impressive results, GAIM was terminated in 2004, after providing the foundations for both the current Global Carbon Project (GCP) and the building the platform for the new generation of integrative modeling activities in AIMES (both under IGBP-II).

GAIM International Project Office was kindly hosted by University of New Hampshire, Durham, USA with generous financial support from NSF, NOAA, EPA and DOE.