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Integrated perspective on translating biophysical to economic impacts of climate change

Integrated perspective on translating biophysical to economic impacts of climate change

Franziska Piontek, Laurent Drouet, Johannes Emmerling, Tom Kompas, Aurélie Méjean, Christian Otto, James Rising, Bjoern Soergel, Nicolas Taconet & Massimo Tavoni

Abstract

Estimates of climate change’s economic impacts vary widely, depending on the applied methodology. This uncertainty is a barrier for policymakers seeking to quantify the benefits of mitigation. In this Perspective, we provide a comprehensive overview and categorization of the pathways and methods translating biophysical impacts into economic damages. We highlight the open question of the persistence of impacts as well as key methodological gaps, in particular the effect of including inequality and adaptation in the assessments. We discuss the need for intensifying interdisciplinary research, focusing on the uncertainty of econometric estimates of damages as well as identification of the most socioeconomically relevant types of impact. A structured model intercomparison related to economic impacts is noted as a crucial next step.

Citation: Piontek, F., L. Drouet, J. Emmerling, T. Kompas, A. Méjean, C. Otto, J. Rising, B. Soergel, N. Taconet, M. Tavoni (2021). Integrated perspective on translating biophysical to economic impacts of climate change. Nature Climate Change

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