AquaStress
header
Integrated Solution Support System - Aquastress          

Factsheet: Integrated Assessment model

 

Definition

Integrated Assessment Model (IAM) a computer simulation program representing a coupled natural system and a socio-economic system, modelling one or more cause-effect chains including feedback loops, and explicitly designed to serve as a tool to analyse policies in order to guide and inform the policy process, mostly by means of scenario analysis. This explicit policy purpose defines the difference between IAMs and Earth System Models (ESMs) such as Atmosphere Ocean General Circulation Models (GCMs) and geochemical models, which are designed primarily for scientific purposes. It should however be noted that ESMs such as GCMs could also be used (and in fact they are) to look at policy questions.

Application objectives

  • Raising public awareness (early warning function);
  • Rapid assessment tools of policy alternatives;
  • Framework for structuring knowledge;
  • Educating people;
  • Clarifying uncertainties;Negotiation support

Pertinent participation process phase(s)

1- Starting organization

2- Actors analysis, context

3- Diagnostic of the current situation

4- Search of solutions

5- Implementation, evaluation

Application method

Integrated assessment models can be implemented as quantitative computer models (calculation tools) or as qualitative, conceptual models. The quantitative models may be used to support focus group discussions. The qualitative SCENE model is generally applied in different forms of focus groups, together with interviews and feedback sessions (Grosskurth, J. and J. Rotmans, 2003).

Application example(s)

The use of Integrated Assessment computer models for Public Participation has been evaluated within the European Research project ULYSSES. IA model were applied within focus groups to allow informed citizens to express their judgement on climate policy (http://www.zit.tu-darmstadt.de/cipp/tudzit/lib/pub/object/downloadfile ). The qualitative SCENE model has been applied in the Netherlands, for strategic vision development for the Province of Limburg, to underpin a sustainability-monitoring tool for the province of North-Brabant, and to derive a set of monitoring indicators for the city of Maastricht (Grosskurth, J. and J. Rotmans, 2003).

Example tools

An IAM for a specific case is obviously is tailor made. Many software tools are available. Given the broadness of the definition of IAM one must search for the right tool given a specific case.

AquaStress contact(s)

Contact: None specified.

Reference

  • Rotmans, J. and M. B. A. van Asselt, 2001, Uncertainty in Integrated Assessment Modelling: A labyrinth path, Integrated Assessment 2001(2 - special issue edited by RMNO): 43-55.
  • Grosskurth, J. and J. Rotmans, 2004, The SCENE Model: getting a grip on sustainable development in policy making, Environment, Development and Sustainability, vol. 7, no. 1, 133-149.