'Qualculating' a low-carbon future – Assessing the performativity of models in the construction of the French net zero strategy

The aim underlying the notion of a Net zero 2050 future (NZ 2050) is achievement balance between anthropogenic emissions greenhouse gases by sources, and their removals carbon sinks, mid-point current century. This paper delves into relation numerical modelling political decisionmaking in construction NZ future, examining recent development French national low-carbon strategy (SNBC-2) (2016-2018) related processes. SNBC-2 was first attempt to put NZ2050 France, path towards it, numerical, calculative form. We show that, aside from yielding collective capacity quantify farther one major lesson at representing that available models for doing so were limited relevance. analysis discusses these shortcomings implications with regard performativity making doable horizon. Performativity refers circular dynamic realm they represent (here, future). Modelling thus conceived as an algorithmic relational process, which contributes assembly all elements might compose this or bringing about emergence. Based on notion, drawn science technology studies, ‘qualculation’ – understands calculation process once qualitative quantitative, we underline crucial, but ambiguous role non-calculative adjustments used compensate limitations models. can potentially lead both gain loss performativity, depending whether not qualculation makes them explicit allows be collectively remembered critically discussed. also argue resulting relationship policymaking somewhat more reciprocal than what has been argued literature: do encapsulate form politics enact, challenged reshaped emergence new objectives.