Progress over Perfection

David Carlin

Net Zero Data Specialist

Don’t let imperfect data hold you back, even when the data isn't flawless, we need to take action in order to drive progress in sustainability. In this Step, David Carlin shows how to make decisions with what you’ve got and keep moving forward, no matter what.

Net Zero Data

Progress over Perfection

7 mins 2 secs

Key learning objectives:

Understand that climate progress may require decision making with imperfect data
Understand why data may be imperfect
Outline how iterative learning using available data can improve decision-making and result in valuable progress

Overview:

Progress doesn’t need to wait for perfect data. In this Step, David Carlin explains that while data can be messy and imperfect, waiting for perfect information can stall necessary action. Imperfect data can still lead to meaningful progress, especially in tackling issues like pollution and climate change. David emphasises that imperfect data should not stop us from moving forward, progress is about acting now, refining as we go, rather than waiting for everything to be perfect.

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Summary

Why is waiting for perfect data problematic in climate decision-making?

Waiting for perfect data can delay urgent action. While accuracy is important, real-world challenges often mean that decisions must be made based on incomplete information. Delaying for perfect data risks missing opportunities to address critical environmental issues.

Imperfect data, despite its limitations, can still guide meaningful progress. The key is acting on the best available data and refining decisions over time as more information emerges.

What challenges exist in obtaining perfect carbon emissions data?

Obtaining perfect emissions data is difficult due to technological limits, lack of resources and human error. Measuring greenhouse gas emissions requires specialised equipment and consistent methodologies, which aren’t always available. Environmental systems are also complex and dynamic, making it hard to capture a complete picture.

Despite these issues, it's essential to act on available data rather than waiting for perfection, which could hinder progress.

How has imperfect data been used to drive climate progress?

Imperfect data has driven climate progress by enabling iterative learning and improvements. Early weather forecasts, though they were often inaccurate, still helped people prepare. Over time, as data collection improved, these forecasts became more reliable, showing that progress can come from imperfect beginnings.

In the sustainability sector, satellite imagery for tracking deforestation, despite its flaws, has informed conservation policies and raised awareness. Similarly, early actions on renewable energy technologies, based on imperfect data, led to advancements as more data was gathered.

Why is iterative learning important when using imperfect data?

Iterative learning allows for decisions based on available data, with outcomes monitored and strategies adjusted over time. This continuous improvement process, even with incomplete data, leads to better results. Cities like Beijing have refined their environmental policies through this approach, learning from initial actions and improving their methods.

Progress doesn’t require perfect data but rather a commitment to adapt and learn as new insights emerge.

The opinions and viewpoints expressed in this video are those of the creator and do not necessarily reflect the views of any affiliated organisations.

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David Carlin

David Carlin led the creation of the UNEP FI's Risk Programme, working with over 100 financial institutions to explore the risks and opportunities presented by climate change and the transition to net zero. He also conducts research at the intersection of climate, nature and finance and is a contributor to Forbes and a senior associate at Cambridge’s Institute for Sustainability Leadership. David is also an advisor to governments, firms, and solutions providers as he helps them to explore how they can integrate sustainability and climate-readiness into their strategies and operations.

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