The Scenario Evolution Process (SEP) launched in February 2026 is an ongoing multi-year, community-driven initiative designed to discuss the future of the Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs) framework based on how it has been used by the research community and what is desired from future scenarios.
The world is now very different compared to when components of the SSP framework entered the literature for the IPCC Fifth Assessment Report in 2014. Information collected through SEP activities will be used to chart a path for an appropriate evolution from the SSPs that goes beyond climate mitigation and adaptation to integrate nature, sustainable development, and social equity into the core of future narratives.
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The Scenario Evolution Process (SEP) is a community-wide initiative, coordinated by ICONICS (The International Committee on New Integrated Climate Change Assessment Scenarios) and led by the SEP Working Group.
ICONICS serves as the primary coordinating body for the project. Leading experts from the Integrated Assessment Modeling (IAM) and Impacts, Adaptation, and Vulnerability (IAV), IPBES, and climate science communities ensure the scientific integrity and strategic continuity of the scenarios.
If you are interested in learning more about the SEP, you can watch the introductory webinar and stay informed about the latest news, updates, and announcements by visiting https://sep.du.edu.
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