To help people gain a scientific understanding of climate challenges and their potential solutions, the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA) has recently 2023 unveiled the Climate Solutions Explorer. This innovative digital platform offers an overarching view of essential data about climate mitigation, impacts, vulnerabilities, and development-induced risks.
Built on “up-to-the-minute” data and cutting-edge models, the Climate Solutions Explorer is a pioneering repository for insights into the future trajectory of climate-induced and development-related challenges.
Providing scientific insight
The platform delivers current information on climate impacts and actual mitigation strategies. It is poised to become the premier hub for those seeking to delve into the latest research on climate change and pathways to net-zero emissions.
Emerging from the ENGAGE project, a global coalition comprising nearly 30 partners led by IIASA and other esteemed institutions, the platform synthesises collective knowledge. The ENGAGE project, which started in September 2019 and is to be concluded later this year, aims to chart pathways in alignment with the goals of the Paris Agreement.
Exploring the landscape
What can users expect from their exploration of the Climate Solutions Explorer? Edward Byers, coordinator of the website and a researcher in the IIASA Energy, Climate, and Environment Program, offers an introduction to the new platform:
“The platform offers a diverse range of content, including an interactive map that visualizes climate change impacts, national and regional data dashboards showcasing impacts and mitigation pathways, and articles covering a wide array of climate-related topics and countries. The website also provides publicly available data, allowing users to delve deep into their preferred areas of exploration.”
A standout feature is the “Net Zero Stories” section, where local experts share their narratives. These stories chronicle nations’ journeys toward sustainable, net-zero societies, providing nuanced analyses of the trade-offs and co-benefits. Acknowledging the universalities and distinct regional nuances of sustainable transitions, these narratives help us understand each country’s unique challenges and opportunities.
A nation-centric lens
For those with a penchant for specificity, the Climate Solutions Explorer offers national dashboards. These dashboards consider an array of variables, including socioeconomics, emissions, mitigation options, and climate impacts across varying exposure levels and risks. This enables users to gain insights into the climate landscape of nations and the potential ramifications of global warming.
A stepping stone towards change
Edward Byers underscores the significance of the Climate Solutions Explorer‘s launch:
“The comprehensive website empowers individuals, businesses, and policymakers to make informed decisions and contribute to a more sustainable future. Whether you’re interested in understanding the impacts of climate change or exploring net-zero pathways, the Climate Solutions Explorer is your go-to resource for all things climate-related.”
In a world where informed decisions are increasingly essential, the Climate Solutions Explorer is a testament to the potential of data-driven insights to help us take steps towards a more sustainable future.
