Preprints
https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2026-517
https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2026-517
12 Mar 2026
 | 12 Mar 2026
Status: this preprint is open for discussion and under review for Earth System Dynamics (ESD).

ESD Ideas: Quantifying global and regional contributions to climate change projection uncertainty

Daniëlle Bintanja, Hylke de Vries, and Karin van der Wiel

Abstract. Hawkins and Sutton (2009) developed a framework to partition total uncertainty in future climate projections into three components: internal variability, model uncertainty and scenario uncertainty. Here, we propose an extension of this framework that separates the contributions of global and regional processes. This enables a more physically based interpretation and improved understanding of the origins of projection uncertainty.

Competing interests: At least one of the (co-)authors is a member of the editorial board of Earth System Dynamics.

Publisher's note: Copernicus Publications remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims made in the text, published maps, institutional affiliations, or any other geographical representation in this paper. While Copernicus Publications makes every effort to include appropriate place names, the final responsibility lies with the authors. Views expressed in the text are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher.
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Daniëlle Bintanja, Hylke de Vries, and Karin van der Wiel

Status: open (until 23 Apr 2026)

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Daniëlle Bintanja, Hylke de Vries, and Karin van der Wiel
Daniëlle Bintanja, Hylke de Vries, and Karin van der Wiel
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Short summary
We present a method to separate uncertainties from global and regional climate processes within the Hawkins & Sutton (2009) framework, partitioning sources of uncertainty in future climate projections. This helps interpret sources of uncertainty in future climate projections and informs adaptation planning. Focusing on regional projections reduces total uncertainty, highlighting the value of isolating regional uncertainties when developing regional climate information.
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