The Value of Using Data Analytics to Fight Climate Change

According to an article on WeForum.org, the world is expected to cross the global warming threshold between 2027 and 2042. Using mathematical models that analyze the current state of the Earth's climate, scientists are expecting temperatures to rise by 1.5 degrees once we reach that threshold.

Governments around the world are raising alarms over the need to stop a climate catastrophe that's growing closer and faster than what initial projections suggested. 

Nonetheless, new technology will play a significant role in crafting policies and developing innovations designed to address climate issues and delay our crossing the threshold. Data analytics is looking to be a critical part of solving the climate crisis before it gets worse. 

Understanding data analytics

There is no denying that we are living in a data-driven world. With our increasing reliance on new technology, organizations can collect raw information about our interactions and behaviors, run models, and derive conclusions that support key decisions. 

The business landscape has been using data analytics to learn more about consumer behaviors so they can come up with products and services that cater to certain needs.

Other sectors are also using data analytics as well to solve critical problems. Law enforcement, for instance, is adopting predictive analytics tools for intelligence gathering and anticipating public security threats. The healthcare sector has been using data analytics to full effect since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Medical researchers use insights on vaccine efficacy, virus transmission, and recovery rate for developing better action plans. 

The methods and processes involved in data analytics can also help in developing sustainable solutions that are meant to mitigate the effects of global warming.

Where does data analytics fit in climate science? 

Scientists are currently looking at how data analytics can be applied in climate research. The basic application of this emerging technology involves running models and simulations based on existing factors such as sea levels and the rate at which the polar ice caps are melting and comparing these to historical climate data.

Using data analytics procedures, scientists can run qualitative and quantitative tests that can provide accurate predictions of extreme climate effects that can worsen in a matter of years. 

Recently, a study by Arizona State University and Stanford University researchers doubled down on the applicability of data analytics in uncovering early warning signs of severe weather patterns in the decades to come. Using past global temperature data, the researchers were able to uncover past warning signs of severe heat waves. 

Through data analytics, scientists can learn how certain actions can accelerate or mitigate climate effects. Initiatives such as sustainable home construction, Texas solar buyback plans, and biofuel production can reverse negative climate impacts before they get worse. 

Are we too late in implementing the technology? 

Addressing climate change is a race against time and it requires concerted efforts to change entire lifestyles, consumption habits, and cultures. The challenge lies in knowing how to get everyone on the same boat. Unfortunately, significant progress has yet to be made as certain governments are backing out of international climate deals.

Is the introduction of data analytics in the fight against global warming a delayed act? Is it too late for us to leverage data analytics in coming sustainable solutions that are meant to reverse the impact of climate change? 

Data analytics could have entered the scene sooner, but it's not too late for this emerging technology to make an impact in deciding on the most effective action plans. For now, data analytics is being used for certain areas that support existing climate initiatives and contribute to the growing knowledge on climate science.

1. Analyzing carbon footprints: Through the use of AI-driven solutions, companies can measure their carbon emissions accurately. From there, they can identify what needs to be done in reducing their carbon footprints and adopting sustainable solutions into the supply chain.

2. Reclaim lost ecosystems:  Big data is also helping conservation efforts. Using historical data, ecologists can pinpoint areas that can be revived following long periods of drought as well as forest fire damages.

3. Promote climate awareness: Regardless of the efforts to stifle discussions on climate change from denialists, information on impending climate disasters remains solid. It's just a matter of using data analytics to present solid evidence and educate the public.

4. Develop sustainable products: For companies involved in sustainable manufacturing, data analytics can help them come up with concepts for products that reduce environmental impacts. By analyzing the relationship of materials, logistics, and product design with carbon emissions, these companies can optimize their production lines and outputs for greater sustainability.

Endnote

It's not too late for us to harness data analytics as a way forward in addressing climate challenges. We are already on the right track to using this emerging technology to build a more sustainable future.