What is the difference between "climate prediction" and "climate projection"?

Climate prediction refers to the short-term forecasting of climate conditions based on the current state of the climate system and its known patterns of variability. These predictions typically cover timescales from a few months to a few years and aim to forecast specific climate phenomena, such as seasonal weather patterns, temperature anomalies, and precipitation trends. Climate predictions rely on observations, statistical models, and physical understanding of climate dynamics to make accurate forecasts, often for regions and specific seasons.

Climate projection involves the long-term simulation of future climate conditions based on various scenarios of greenhouse gas emissions and other socio-economic factors. These projections extend over decades to centuries and are not predictions of specific future weather events but rather scenarios of how the climate might change under different assumptions about human activities and natural processes. Climate projections use complex climate models to estimate changes in temperature, precipitation, sea level, and other climate variables. They help policymakers and researchers understand potential future climates and guide decisions on climate adaptation and mitigation strategies.