Scientists have built a ‘digital twin’ of Earth to predict the future of climate change

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🗞️ Driving the news: Scientists have developed a highly accurate AI-powered “digital twin” of Earth to provide reliable information about extreme weather and climate change
• The Destination Earth (DestinE) project integrates weather and climate systems with human activities to predict impacts on water, food, and energy systems
• Launched by the European Commission on June 10, with over €315 million in funding, the project aims to help policymakers and scientists prepare for future scenarios

🔭 The context: Historically, climate and weather predictions have been regional or global, but DestinE combines these with human actions for a comprehensive Earth system model
• Initiated in partnership with ECMWF, ESA, and EUMETSAT, the project will evolve over the years, completing a full digital replica of Earth by 2030
• The initial models focus on climate change adaptation and weather-induced extremes, using data from sources like Copernicus

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: DestinE represents a significant advancement in our ability to predict and respond to climate change, potentially saving lives and resources
• With over two million deaths from extreme weather events between 1970 and 2021, this tool can aid in disaster preparedness and climate adaptation
• The project aligns with the EU's goal to become the first climate-neutral continent by 2050, supporting sustainable development and environmental policies

⏭️ What's next: By 2027, additional digital twins and services will be operational, culminating in a complete digital twin of Earth by the end of the decade
• The simulations will help Europe respond more effectively to natural disasters, adapt to climate change, and assess socioeconomic and policy impacts
• The project also explores hypothetical scenarios, such as the placement of wind farms and crop planting strategies

💬 One quote: "The launch of the initial Destination Earth (DestinE) is a true game changer in our fight against climate change," says Margrethe Vestager, Executive Vice-President of a Europe Fit for the Digital Age

📈 One stat: Over two million people died in extreme weather-related events between 1970 and 2021, according to the World Meteorological Organization

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