En-ROADS Climate Simulator Overview

Introduction

• Presenter: Andrew Jones from Climate Interactive.
• Collaboration: Built with MIT Sloan's Sustainability Initiative and Mentana Systems.

Purpose of En-ROADS

• Online simulator to visualize impacts of actions on energy use, greenhouse gas emissions, and temperature.
• Helps formulate strategies to limit global warming below 2 degrees Celsius.

Simulator Features

• Interactive Actions: Implement actions like carbon pricing, energy efficiency in various sectors.
• Visuals:
  • Left panel: Global sources of primary energy (coal, oil, natural gas, renewables, nuclear).
  • Right panel: Greenhouse gas emissions and temperature increase projections.
• Graphs: Over 100 graphs available, including economic drivers, energy demand, emissions, and more.

Policy Exploration

• Advanced Options: Set specific values for policies, such as detailed carbon pricing.
• Information and Support: Access policy details, examples, co-benefits, equity considerations, and case studies.
• User Guide: Comprehensive documentation and user guides for deeper understanding.

Model Comparison and Validation

• Built on robust scientific data from NASA, Met Office, IPCC studies, and more.
• Compared and tested against integrated assessment models (IAMs) globally.
• Equations and assumptions are transparent and adjustable by users.

Usage Scenarios

• Individual Use: Create and share scenarios.
• Workshops: Facilitate group discussions on climate strategies.
• Simulation Game: Role-playing for climate action simulation.
• Educational Assignment: En-ROADS student assignment.

Advanced Features

• Kaya Graphs: Show drivers of CO2 emissions (population, GDP growth, energy intensity, carbon intensity).
• Energy Supply Costs: Analyze changing costs of energy sources like wind and solar.
• Scenario Sharing: Share scenarios via social media or as a URL.

Support and Resources

• Support Page: FAQs and support tickets for inquiries.
• Release Notes: Monthly updates on scientific discoveries and model changes.
• Language Support: Translated into multiple languages, with ongoing additions.

Conclusion

• Goal: Enhance understanding of climate system dynamics to inform decision-making.
• Encouragement to use the tool for impactful climate action.