Projection Tools
Mathematical models that forecast future scenarios under various conditions
Projections are a specific type of tool that gives a general audience the ability to run models under different scenarios to see what happens in parts of the world. The time frames range from the next 20 years to the end of the century. These tools can be a powerful way to make complex calculations about the future more accessible. In other words, it’s not necessary to have technical expertise to use these tools to determine how actions today may shape the future. When the Climate Impact Map first launched, for example, it was featured prominently in the New York Times.
| Tool Name | Climate Change | Conflict and State Instability | Natural Resource Drivers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aqueduct | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Climate Impact Map | ✔ | ||
| Climate Wizard | ✔ | ||
| Surging Seas | ✔ |
Aqueduct
WRI 1
Maps and indicators that compare current severity of water-related risks across geographies and show how climate change and socio-economic development could affect the availability of and demand for water resources over the coming decades. Users can adjust parameters, including customizing the weight of different indicators and choosing a carbon emission scenario.
Visit the tool here: aqueduct.wri.org
Climate Impact Map
Climate Impact Lab 2
A straightforward data visualization of global and US climate change projections through the end of the century.
The interface allows users to zoom in to local areas and change the time frame, emissions scenarios, probability and ways to view temperature change (for example, “Number of days greater than 95 deg F.”)
Visit the tool here: www.impactlab.org/map
Climate Wizard
The Nature Conservancy, University of Washington, and University of Southern Mississippi 3
This tool maps historic and future predictions of temperature and rainfall around the world, with options to compare and view different predictive models and greenhouse gas emission scenarios.
Visit the tool here: www.climatewizard.org
Surging Seas
Climate Central 4
A visualization of local projected sea levels for the year 2100 under different carbon pollution scenarios.
The projections are based on peer-reviewed research, and include data on how many people will potentially be living on land that could be affected in the future.
Visit the tool here: sealevel.climatecentral.org
Citations
- A U.S.-based independent environmental research organization funded by foundations, government, corporations, and NGOs.
- A U.S.-based independent environmental research organization funded by foundations, governments, corporations, and NGOs.
- A collaborative effort between an independent environmental advocacy group (funded by individuals and governments) and two public U.S. universities.
- An independent, U.S.-based research organization focused on climate science, funded by foundations and governments.