Modelling tools to assess the impact of the implementation of response measures
Tools and methods cover image

The following portal contains information on modelling tools that have been, or could be, useful in assessing the impact of the implementation of response measures.  This information is sourced from the outcomes of previous UNFCCC workshops, existing model databases and more general references and sources.  The amount of information available varied considerably across models and model groups.

 

The following structure in this database is used:

  • Model name and main web page

  • Name of organization and contact details

  • Basic description

  • Relevance in assessing the impact of response measures to climate change

  • Geographical coverage

  • Main area of application

  • Examples of projects using the model

  • Examples of other modelling projects and publications.The descriptions are intended to be short and easily understandable.  If users require further information they can follow the web links or contact details.=


The main criteria for selecting the models included in the web portal were:

  • Model structure and classifications:  This facilitated the identification of models covering the areas relevant for the analysis of the impacts of response measures to climate change outlined above.

  • Geographical coverage:  More importance was assigned to models that cover all regions of the world.  However, models with partial world coverage and national (mainly large country) coverage are included if they are relevant to analysis of response measures, or can provide good examples of exercises assessing national measures.

  • Documentation and evidence of maintenance:  This information provides evidence that the model is being maintained and can therefore reasonably be assumed to include recent data. 


The database is divided into two sections, based on the focus of the modelling tools.  The two sections are:

Integrated Assessment Models (IAMs) and Energy-Environment-Economy (E3) models 

For this context, IAMs and E3 models are most relevant in assessing the impact of the implementation of response measures to climate change, as they have a strong focus on socio-economic aspects.  These models have detailed sectoral and regional classifications that  can be useful in assessing the impacts of economic diversification and trade and spillover impacts.  They are however less well equipped to address technological development.

Energy models 

Energy models are particularly relevant for addressing energy efficiency and analysing the impacts of new technologies.  Many are also relevant to the analysis of different pricing systems, for example through changes in taxation policy or subsidies.  Generally, however, their coverage of socio-economic issues is less well-defined.

 

Related documents

Prior to and during SB48:

On the improved forum on the impact of the implementation of response measures

  1. By 30 March 2018, Parties and observers will submit their views on the scope of the review of the work of the forum. The submissions will be made available at the submission portal;
  2. A two-day training workshop on use of economic modelling tools related to the areas of the work programme of the improved forum took place during SB48.

On the forum under the Paris Agreement on the impact of the implementation of response measures

The informal document prepared by the SB Chairs will be made available at the SB48 pre-session documents page, the link will be also provided on this page once it is available.

 

At SB47:

On the improved forum on the impact of the implementation of response measures

  1. Parties exchanged their views on possible needs for modelling tools, including capacity-building opportunities;
  2. The SBI and the SBSTA invited the secretariat to collaborate with relevant intergovernmental and international organizations to raise awareness with a view to enhancing capacity building programmes or activities for Parties in order to maximize the positive and minimize the negative impacts of response measures;
  3. The SBI and the SBSTA requested the secretariat to organize a two-day training workshop on use of economic modelling tools related to the areas of the work programme of the improved forum at SB48 and, to prepare a report on the workshop for consideration at the SB sessions taking place in December 2018;
  4. The SBI and the SBSTA invited Parties and observers to submit, by 30 March 2018, their views on the scope of the review of the work of the improved forum that will take place at the SB sessions taking place in December 2018.

Click to view the complete conclusions (Please refer to the reports of SB47 for the final conclusions)

On the forum under the Paris Agreement on the impact of the implementation of response measures

  1. The pre-sessional workshop focusing on the elements of the modalities, work programme and functions under the Paris Agreement of the forum was held prior to the sessions;
  2. The SBI and the SBSTA considered the updated reflections note prepared by their Chairs;
  3. The SBI and the SBSTA requested their Chairs to prepare an informal document containing draft elements of the recommendation, for consideration and adoption at CMA 1.

Click to view the complete conclusions

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