Global average surface temperature rise relative to the 1986-2005 average under new Representative Concentration Pathways. Source: Knutti & Sedlácek, 2012 | Newer studies use different types of scenarios, called Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs), to predict future climate change. Climate models using the highest of these new concentration pathways, called RCP8.5, suggests four degrees warming as a best estimate for a world scenario where little or no mitigation action is taken. |