The “aged” filter on TikTok has become a viral sensation, allowing users to glimpse into their future appearance. Generating AI predictions of how individuals might look in 50 years, the filter showcases features like sagging skin, deeper wrinkles, and dark spots, providing a unique perspective on the aging process. With nearly 11 billion views in a few months, it has captivated users and sparked discussions about the inevitable effects of time.
Harnessing the power of visual projections, scientists aim to emphasize the potential impact of climate change on our lives. While statistics convey the forecasted changes, striking images of cities submerged under rising sea levels or neighborhoods affected by extreme temperatures could evoke a more visceral response. Much like the viral TikTok filter offering a glimpse into the future, these visual depictions seek to drive home the urgency of addressing the climate crisis and inspire collective action.
In 50 years, the potential impact of unchecked climate change looms large. The latest U.N. climate change report, based on predictions by leading scientists, warns that the world could reach a critical temperature tipping point within a decade unless swift action is taken to transition away from fossil fuels. With the current trajectory, the carbon budget might be depleted by 2030. A study suggests that a third of the global population, around 3.5 billion people, could experience climates resembling the Sahara by 2070. National Geographic’s interactive feature illustrates how cities like Boston and London may face significantly hotter temperatures, emphasizing the urgency of addressing climate challenges.
Climate Central’s initiative, “Picturing Our Future,” offers a visual representation of potential outcomes based on climate choices. It contrasts a future where current practices result in a 3°C warming with one where aggressive carbon pollution reduction limits warming to the Paris Climate Agreement’s 1.5°C target. Utilizing peer-reviewed research, the project employs photorealistic images, flyover videos, Google Earth images, and animated GIFs to illustrate how climate decisions will affect sea level rise. This visual tool covers nearly 200 global landmarks, providing tangible depictions of iconic places potentially impacted by rising sea levels.
The visualizations presented by initiatives like “Picturing Our Future” aim to emphasize the impact of current climate choices on the future, advocating for swift carbon pollution reduction. According to Benjamin Strauss, CEO and chief scientist of Climate Central, these visuals demonstrate that actions taken by governments, corporations, and industries can mitigate risks and safeguard coastal communities globally. Climate scientist Katharine Hayhoe supports the use of visuals to depict the consequences of present decisions, encouraging people to envision the personal impact of a warming planet. By fostering this understanding, individuals can grasp the importance of climate action in shaping a more sustainable future.
Climate scientist Katharine Hayhoe stresses the importance of not only understanding the potential consequences of inaction on climate change but also visualizing the positive impact of taking meaningful steps. Citing “The Future We Choose” by Christiana Figueres and Tom Rivett-Carnac, Hayhoe highlights the book’s portrayal of a best-case scenario in which emissions are significantly reduced, aiming for a world no more than 1.5°C warmer by 2100. This vision presents a vibrant, livable future with clean air, water, and sustainable, green cities, encouraging a proactive approach to climate action.