RCPs ( Representative Concentration Pathways) are emissions trajectories used in climate modelling to describe how greenhouse gas concentrations might evolve. Each RCP reflects different assumptions about future policy and economic development.
EarthScan scenarios draw on RCP-aligned models; for instance, “business as usual” aligns with RCP8.5, reflecting high emissions and limited mitigation.
RCPs structure future climate projections. Understanding them helps users interpret scenarios, communicate assumptions, and compare risk outcomes across models.