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arXiv · 1311.4762

Software Uncertainty in Integrated Environmental Modelling: the role of Semantics and Open Science

Daniele de Rigo
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Abstract

Computational aspects increasingly shape environmental sciences. Actually, transdisciplinary modelling of complex and uncertain environmental systems is challenging computational science (CS) and also the science-policy interface. Large spatial-scale problems falling within this category - i.e. wide-scale transdisciplinary modelling for environment (WSTMe) - often deal with factors (a) for which deep-uncertainty may prevent usual statistical analysis of modelled quantities and need different ways for providing policy-making with science-based support. Here, practical recommendations are proposed for tempering a peculiar - not infrequently underestimated - source of uncertainty. Software errors in complex WSTMe may subtly affect the outcomes with possible consequences even on collective environmental decision-making. Semantic transparency in CS and free software are discussed as possible mitigations.

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Daniele de Rigo. 2013-11-19. Software Uncertainty in Integrated Environmental Modelling: the role of Semantics and Open Science. https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.155701

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