Improved modelling of lifestyle changes in Integrated Assessment Models: Cross-disciplinary insights from methodologies and theories. (November 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: van den Berg, Nicole J.; Hof, Andries F.; Akenji, Lewis; Edelenbosch, Oreane Y.; van Sluisveld, Mariësse A.E.; Timmer, Vanessa J.; van Vuuren, Detlef P.
• Is Part Of: Energy strategy reviews. Volume 26(2019)
• Publication Date: 2019-11
• Subjects: Integrated assessment -- Sustainable lifestyles -- Behaviour change -- Scenarios -- Mitigation; Energy policy -- Periodicals; 333.7905
• DOI: 10.1016/j.esr.2019.100420
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2211-467X

Abstract

Abstract: Recent studies show that lifestyle changes can provide an essential contribution to achieving the Paris climate targets. While some efforts have been made to incorporate lifestyle changes into model-based scenarios, the attempts are currently very stylised and included exogenously. This paper discusses current efforts to represent lifestyle change in models, and analyses potential insights from relevant scientific disciplines to improve the representation of lifestyle changes in models – including modelling specific behaviour changes, identifying cross-cutting lifestyle solutions, representing the intentions behind the changes and quantifying their impacts. As such, this research attempts to bridge the gap between qualitative and quantitative theories and methodologies. Based on the results of this literature analysis, we recommend defining lifestyle changes more harmoniously, exploring an expanded range of approaches, domains and transformative solutions, adopting a whole-systems approach, and addressing the trade-offs between the use of exogenous inputs and endogenous modelling. Highlights: Different disciplines use different definitions and descriptions of lifestyle changes. IAMs can learn from the literature on lifestyle changes in various disciplines. A comprehensive overview of lifestyle changes and the associated determinants. It is possible to characterize the literature using the improve, shift and avoid. A key recommendation is to address trade-offs between 'exogenous' and 'endogenous'.