02.03.2026

The breakout sessions and lively discussions – on stage, in small groups, and during coffee breaks – clearly sparked new momentum: newly initiated working groups, planned focus workshops, and upcoming sprint checks all emerged directly from these conversations. This is exactly how community-driven development should work.

A key milestone was the stronger integration of the Impact community. Impact models translate climate simulations into tangible consequences – for example for agriculture, water availability, or infrastructure — and are therefore central users of the future natESM system. We are particularly pleased to see new connections forming here and collaboration gaining further traction.

The Paleo modelling community also took concrete steps forward: a new Paleo Working Group was formed during the workshop and is planning to submit a proposal soon. We are looking forward to seeing its objectives and the impulses this area will bring to natESM.

A special highlight was the talk by Peer Nowack (KIT) on the role of AI in Earth system modelling. In the subsequent fishbowl discussion with Hendryk Bockelmann (DKRZ), Anja Schmidt (DLR-PA), and Jochem Marotzke (MPI-M), the panel engaged directly with questions from the community. The exchange was open, critical, and forward-looking – a strong starting point for an important discussion: What role should AI play in natESM in the future – and where should we deliberately set boundaries?

What remains are many new ideas, concrete next steps, and a clear signal that natESM is driven by an active community that continues to think ahead and develop the natESM system together.

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