Climate change is a pressing issue facing humanity and one of the most important steps in addressing it is to understand the causes and impacts of the changing climate. This is where climate models come in. Climate models are sophisticated computer simulations that allow climate scientists to simulate and predict long-term climate patterns. In this pathway, Kevin Trenberth, discusses the use of climate models, the evolution of different types of models and the distinction between climate predictions and projections. Kevin then explains the potential impacts of different levels of global warming, including the differences between 1.5°C and 2°C warming, as well as the projections of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
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3 video modules • 47 minutes
In this video, Kevin Trenberth provides a deep dive into climate models by outlining the importance of models and the approach to modelling. He also discusses Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) models, climate models and the challenges faced. Lastly, he discusses the difference between predictions and projections.
Kevin Trenberth • 18:57
It is crucial to limit and slow down global warming, and this cannot be emphasised enough. Every small increase in temperature is accompanied by a corresponding increase in hot extremes, severe storms, droughts, rising oceans etc. Join Kevin, as he talks us through the importance of rates of change vs one-off climate events, along with the differences the planet will see at 1.5 vs 2 degrees of warming.
Kevin Trenberth • 08:52
In the previous video, Kevin outlines the differences between the effects of 1.5 vs 2 degrees warming. In this video, Kevin discusses the various emissions scenarios pathways as projected by the IPCC. In doing so, Kevin also elaborates on the multitude of physical threats that accompany these pathways.
Kevin Trenberth • 19:41