August 28, 2100

A Stark Visualization of Climate Change Over Time

By Dan McCarey

Climate change is one of the most pressing challenges of our time, with its effects becoming increasingly apparent and dire. In a project commissioned by Bread for the World Institute, I had the unique opportunity to create a visualization tool named "August 28, 2100."

We aimed to illustrate the drastic changes in climate patterns that are projected to occur if current trends continue.

This project aimed to provide a stark representation of the escalating impact of climate change by displaying modeled temperature data for a specific future date — August 28, 2100 — and comparing it to the same date in 1950 and 2017.

The project's primary goal was to make the abstract concept of climate change more tangible and immediate for viewers.

By choosing a specific future date, "August 28, 2100," and contrasting it with past temperatures, we aimed to illustrate the drastic changes in climate patterns that are projected to occur if current trends continue. This visualization highlights the urgency of addressing climate change to mitigate these potential future impacts.

The visualization was designed to be both comprehensive and accessible. It featured a global map showcasing the maximum daily temperature for every location on Earth on August 28 across three different years: 1950, 2017, and 2100. The data for 2100 was based on scientific models predicting future climate patterns, offering a glimpse into a future shaped by ongoing climate change.

One of the critical aspects of this project was to ensure clarity and accuracy in presenting the data. The map was designed to be intuitive, allowing users to easily navigate between the different years and observe the changes in temperature. Color coding was used effectively to depict temperature variations, with darker colors indicating higher temperatures. This visual approach was intended to convey the severity of the temperature increases over time clearly.

"August 28, 2100" was met with a significant response upon its release. It served as a powerful tool for Bread for the World Institute in their advocacy efforts, helping to raise awareness about the long-term consequences of climate change. The visualization underscored the importance of immediate action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adopt sustainable practices.