Episode 50 – Understanding Attribution Science

In this episode, 39 Essex Chambers’ barristers Camilla ter Haar and Ruth Keating are joined by Dr. Yann Quilcaille. Dr. Yann Quilcaille is a climate scientist with a background in economics of sustainable development. His research focuses on climate extremes and climate emulators.

Key takeaways from the episode include:

• Data: Attribution methods are robust and diverse, however the data available is key. The more disaggregated the data and the more localised the impact sought, the harder it is in terms of attribution and the more data that is needed.
• Collaboration between law and science: Bridging the gap between scientific data and legal requirements demands close cooperation; lawyers should consult scientists to avoid misinterpreting concepts like sufficiency versus causation and leverage interdisciplinary networks.
• Evaluating evidence in court: Courts can assess the robustness of attribution evidence by verifying peer-reviewed methods or transparent scientific protocols while ensuring the scientific findings align with the specific legal framing of a case.