In module 4 we are learning about Global Climate Models (GMCs) and how they can help predict the future climate that our world will be facing in the next century. We studied three specific models: A2, A1B and B1. These three different models all focus on different outcomes surrounding environmental and economic decisions of the world. I thought that the Paris Climate Talks would be an extremely appropriate topic to discuss seeing as though we are learning about the outcome of our climate depending on the participation of our world.

195 countries were involved with the Climate Talks and all came to an agreement to lower their carbon emissions and set reasonable and manageable 5-year goals. There have been many other programs set in place by countries, such as the United States “Mission Initiative” to double the funding for alternative energy research. Even the founder of Microsoft, Bill Gates, has begun a program (Breakthrough Energy Coalition) doing research on clean technologies. It has been shown already that companies who are focused on climate change and sustainable living have experienced an incredible economic growth rate.

Although there is still much work and research that needs to be done, it is looking like our world is coming together and following the route of model A1B. This model demonstrates a world that is willing to work together to make our actions more sustainable and less permanent on the surface of the Earth. If the A1B model is followed the temperatures will rise but not as drastically as if we continued to live our daily lives normally before the Paris Climate Talks, like the “business as usual” model, A2. One of the factors that does not match the model would be the population. The article states that we will have 9.7 million people on this planet by the year 2060, but the model states that the world will peak at 9 million in 2050 and begin to decrease in the years to follow.

References:

Norwood, Graham. “Beyond the Paris Climate Talks: What Was Achieved and What Remains to Be Done.” Wilson Center. N.p., n.d. Web. 9 Feb. 2016. <https://www.wilsoncenter.org/event/beyond-the-paris-climate-talks-what-was-achieved-and-what-remains-to-be-done>.