The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has approved a new six-year working program with an “emphasis on adaptation to climate change”, and a conclusive synthesis report due by late 2029. The decision was made in Istanbul on Saturday, following four days of debates and an additional night of negotiations, reflecting the challenges in reaching a global consensus.
Established by the United Nations, the IPCC provides comprehensive scientific assessments to inform governments on climate policies. These assessments are typically published every five to seven years, with the sixth cycle concluding last year. The new program continues this tradition, following previous models of releasing several voluminous intermediary reports capped off with a final synthesis.
The program was adopted by “more than 300 delegates from 120 governments”, underscoring the collaborative effort required to address climate change. Three working groups have been established to focus on key areas: the physical science basis of climate change; adaptation and vulnerabilities of humanity and ecosystems; and solutions to limit global warming.
The urgency of the task is underscored by the IPCC’s warning that global emissions, which have not yet peaked, must fall by 43 percent between 2019 and 2030 to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels—a target set by the 2016 Paris Agreement. This ambitious goal highlights the critical need for immediate and sustained action from all nations.
The emphasis on adaptation reflects a growing recognition of the need to prepare for the impacts of climate change that are already occurring. As countries in Asia and around the world face increasing challenges such as extreme weather events, sea-level rise, and biodiversity loss, the IPCC’s work will provide essential guidance for policymakers, businesses, and communities seeking to build resilience and mitigate risks.
The continuation of the IPCC’s reporting cycle ensures that the latest scientific knowledge will remain at the forefront of global climate discussions. By maintaining a focus on adaptation and mitigation strategies, the international community can work collectively to address the complexities of climate change and strive towards a sustainable future.
Reference(s):
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