Incorporating and communicating climate change uncertainties in environmental assessments.
Published: 2004
Language: eng
Number of pages: 131
Description: A changing climate produces significant implications for projects that affect the environment and consequently must be addressed in their Environmental Assessments (EAs). However, recent studies indicate that climate change impacts have been inadequately considered in project EAs and the corresponding uncertainties have been addressed even more poorly. Recognizing these deficiencies, this study investigates how the various uncertainties from climate change can be identified, analyzed, incorporated, and communicated within project EAs. The three fundamental analytical approaches considered are: scenario analysis, sensitivity analysis, and probabilistic analysis. Various concepts arising from the use of these methods will be illustrated and articulated via a significant set of examples based upon a proposed hydroelectric project. Furthermore, once the uncertainties have been addressed, it is essential for them to be clearly communicated to the disparate stakeholders of an EA. Several recommendations for effectively incorporating, analyzing, and communicating the uncertainties of climate change within EAs are provided.
Notes: Adviser: Philip Byer.

Thesis (M.A.Sc.)--University of Toronto, 2004.

Electronic version licensed for access by U. of T. users.

Source: Masters Abstracts International, Volume: 42-06, page: 2279.

MICR copy on microfiche (2 microfiches).