Unit 2 - Conceptual Aspects

Question 1

What is the primary focus of Integrated Assessment Models?

Answer 1

Modeling the cause-effect chain of global climate change through an interdisciplinary approach

This involves understanding the interactions between various systems and their feedback loops.

Question 2

Which disciplines are combined in Integrated Assessment Models?

Answer 2

• Sociology
• Economics
• Engineering
• Atmospheric chemistry
• Climatology
• Climate impacts modeling (hydrology, natural vegetation, agriculture, coastal protection)

These disciplines help in understanding the driving forces and impacts of climate change.

Question 3

What are the principal domains that interact in Integrated Assessment Models?

Answer 3

• Atmospheric Concentrations
• Climate System
• Society & Economy
• Natural Systems

These domains have feedback loops affecting one another, leading to environmental impacts.

Question 4

What is the equation for net climate costs in integrated assessment?

Answer 4

Net climate costs = adaptation benefits - adaptation costs + costs of the unavoided impacts

This equation reflects the balance between the costs and benefits of adaptation actions.

Question 5

True or False: Mitigation in integrated assessment can have ancillary benefits.

Answer 5

True

An example of ancillary benefits is the reduction of air pollution, which can improve human health.

Question 6

How does mitigation differ from adaptation in integrated assessment?

Answer 6

• Mitigation is a global problem with local implications
• Adaptation is mainly a local problem

Mitigation requires global action, while adaptation is often localized.

Question 7

What limitations do individual climate models face?

Answer 7

• Assessing effects of changes in global mean temperature
• how to control greenhouse gas concentration and what this implies for emissions

These limitations hinder a comprehensive understanding of climate impacts.

Question 8

What is a limitation of the simple combination of disciplinary studies?

Answer 8

Uncoordinated assumptions between different models

This can lead to inconsistencies in results and analyses.

Question 9

What does the interdisciplinary project approach ensure?

Answer 9

• Ensures consistent assumptions across different models
• Integrates various disciplinary components

This approach integrates various disciplinary components but lacks feedback mechanisms.

Question 10

What is the challenge associated with simulation models in integrated assessment?

Answer 10

Not easily invertible for policy analysis

This limits their utility in evaluating policy outcomes.

Question 11

What are the specific objectives of optimization models?

Answer 11

• Global welfare maximization (cost-benefit analysis)
• Mitigation cost minimization (cost effectiveness analysis)
• Emission corridor derivation (guard-rail approach)

These objectives guide the development and application of policies.

Question 12

List the advantages of Integrated Assessment Models.

Answer 12

1. Provides comprehensive scientific knowledge within a coherent framework
2. Identifies gaps in current understanding
3. Enables consistent modeling of interactions between coupled systems
4. Promotes interdisciplinary collaboration

These advantages promote better understanding and collaboration in climate science.

Question 13

What are simulation models?

Answer 13

• Provides complete integration of components
• Enables dynamic interactions between different elements

Question 14

what do optimization models incorporate that simulation models do not?

Answer 14

Incorporates policy frameworks and socio-economic evaluation + goals