Countries covered: 105

Data type: Multi-level desk research

Indicator type: Outcome

Data Source: Gobal Data Barometer  

Years covered: 2019-2021

Indicator description

---

This indicator measures the extent to which information linked to climate change impacts is available as open access data. There are two separate measures (scored from 0 to 100) which are combined into a composite index:

1) Extent to which emissions information is available as open access data
2) Extent to which climate vulnerability information is available as open access data

Indicator is based on Global Data Barometer, based on expert surveys and desktop research by trained researchers.

For each measure there were sets of sub-questions that helped to evaluate the extent to which the information is available as open data. Sub-questions were designed to identify the existence, elements, and extent of the information. Detailed information can be found here.

 Dataset(s) the indicator is based on

---

The Global Data Barometer (GDB) is a pilot version of a long-term study, building on the Open Data Barometer study (2013-2017). Utilizing a country-level expert and government survey, combined with selected secondary data, the study seeks to provide indicators on how data policy and practice are unfolding around the world. The GDB (a multi-dimensional index) aims to be a global benchmark that tracks an overall comparative assessment of the extent to which data is governed, shared, and used for the public good.

The original dataset is located here. Data collection methods are based on a mix of desk reviews, interviews, and expert surveys.

Temporal scope

---

• Time period(s) collected data is available: Data collected between 2019 and 2021
• Frequency of data collection in the past: Once
• Frequency of data collection in the future: The next round of data collection will take place in 2022. Data collection is intended every two years.
• Change over time: Not yet available.

 

Sample size, characteristics, and geographical coverage

---

The GDB  worked with Regional Hubs around the world to cover as many countries as possible, ultimately covering countries representing 81% of the global population. The original count for the dataset was of 109 countries; however this indicator only includes countries that are UNFCCC parties (105 countries).

Country coverage (out of 197 UNFCCC parties) by SDG grouping. Percentage in brackets corresponds to total number of countries per SDG grouping.

Data Preparations

---

The dataset for the ” climate module”, as named by the GDB, was downloaded. The measures for each of the two themes “emissions data ”and “vulnerability data” were extracted. The original dataset also included the measure “To what extent is information on endangered species and ecosystems available as open data?” which was not used for this indicator, as it is only a proxy for climate change. 

The composite index score is calculated by a simple average of the two themes measures. 

The GDB dataset included the territories of New Caledonia, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Kosovo, which are not recognised as UN SDG Countries nor UNFCCC parties. Those territories were therefore deducted from the overall counts and the analysis, including the country not part of the UNFCCC

Indicator Calculations

---

The overall indicator (composite index) was calculated using a simple mean of the two separate measures “Extent to which emissions information is available as open access data” and “Extent to which climate vulnerability information is available as open access data”.

Indicator= (Emissions + Vulnerability)/2

Indicator scale used for IDP: 0 = 1;  up to 25 = 2;  up to 50 = 3; up to 75 = 4; up to 100 = 5.

Limitations

---

The dataset only included data that were active during the time of data collection, limiting the availability and scope of the data (i.e., emission data published recently, climate strategies with limited timeframes, etc.) The data is based on individual researchers’ qualitative interpretation of reality. While lots of guidance was provided and reviews conducted, human bias, errors, etc. still must be assumed.

The approach to country selection for this first round of data collection from the Global Data Barometer is unclear. Equally, it is not clear who was selected as country experts to collect information on the data. Definitions on emissions, endangered species, and climate vulnerability are limited in the  background document provided by GDB.

The high number of countries who received scores of 0 is a reason for concern, especially given the large number of questions (and thus sources for points). Was this due to bias or other challenges (e.g. language) that don’t reflect on the actual access to data.

Countries from Oceania (except Australia and New Zealand) was not available. Less than 50% of countries in Sub-Saharan Africa are included.

Acknowledgements

---

The MECCE Project would like to thank the Global Data Barometer for making their data open access.

Global Data Barometer. 2021. Climate Action Module.