data Intermediate
QGIS
Free, open-source desktop GIS for mapping and spatial analysis
Addresses
Climate Data
- Cost
- Free · Open-source
- GPL-3.0
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Language
- C++ / Python
- Updated
- 2024
You provide
- Vector and raster spatial data (Shapefile, GeoTIFF, GeoJSON, PostGIS, etc.)
You get
- Maps and cartographic layouts
- Spatial analysis results
- Processed geospatial datasets
Overview
QGIS is a mature, free, and open-source Geographic Information System used across climate-adaptation work — from mapping heat-vulnerability indices to overlaying flood extents on demographic data. It reads virtually every common spatial format and offers hundreds of analysis tools plus a Python API for automation.
Key features
- Cross-platform desktop application (Windows, macOS, Linux)
- Extensive plugin ecosystem and the “Processing” analysis toolbox
- Native support for PostGIS, web tile services, and remote-sensing data
Who it’s for
Planners, analysts, and researchers who need a no-cost, professional-grade GIS for climate and land-use analysis.
Getting started
Download QGIS from qgis.org and follow the built-in training material, or install community plugins for specialised climate workflows.