The episodic buffer is a component of the working memory model, proposed by Alan Baddeley in 2000. It acts as a temporary storage system that integrates information from different sources, such as the phonological loop and the visuospatial sketchpad. This allows for the combination of verbal and visual information, facilitating complex cognitive tasks. Additionally, the episodic buffer helps in the retrieval of information from long-term memory. It enables individuals to create coherent episodes or experiences by linking new information with existing knowledge. This integration is crucial for tasks like problem-solving and decision-making.