Why the IPCC wants to accelerate climate efforts

What are these evaluation reports?

The IPCC was established in 1988 by the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) and the World Meteorological Organization. Its 195 member-states appoint climate scientists and experts to review and report on climate change observations over a period of six to eight years, called an assessment cycle. Each cycle consists of three work reports and one synthesis report, which brings it all together. The first report in 1990 established climate change as a global challenge requiring international cooperation. Research for the sixth cycle started in 2017 and is nearing completion. These reports are important for governments to take climate action.

What is synthesis report?

The final installment of AR6, also known as the Synthesis Report, brings together key findings from the preceding three working group reports and three special reports.

The comprehensive review of the Sixth Assessment Period sends a clear message: what we do in the coming years will determine our livable future. The final installment is significant because the next update is not likely before 2030, by which time the world will have to make crucial decisions to limit global warming to within 1.5°C of pre-industrial levels. The findings of the report are accepted as the basis for their actions.

Why are warnings considered important?

The latest report says more than 3 billion people live in areas that are “highly vulnerable” to climate change, and millions more face food and water shortages. and effective options for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to human-caused climate change”.

What are the latest IPCC forecasts?

IPCC climate models are our best tool to provide us clarity on climate behavior through predictions for different scenarios. They show that to limit global warming to 1.5°C, emissions would need to be cut by about half by 2030, which is the best-case scenario for Earth’s future. If emissions continue to rise at the current pace, the worst-case scenario could go up to 4.5-5°C by 2100. Record emissions over the past decade mean the 1.5°C target now needs to cut emissions and peak before 2025. up to 43% by 2030.

How should the world step up its efforts?

Earth’s climate has already warmed by 1.1 °C above pre-industrial levels, resulting in more frequent and intense extreme weather events, with further sea level rise expected. The most vulnerable communities live in the least developed and low-lying island nations, home to about 1 billion people, who ironically account for less than 1% of global warming. Governments must accelerate climate targets, adopt measures to ensure climate justice and mitigate the effects of the ongoing climate crisis.