Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change

Definition

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is an international body established by the United Nations to assess the science related to climate change, its impacts, and potential adaptation and mitigation strategies. The IPCC plays a crucial role in informing global climate policies by providing comprehensive reports that synthesize the latest scientific research, helping governments make informed decisions on climate actions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The IPCC was established in 1988 and is a collaboration between the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
2. It produces assessment reports every few years, which summarize the current state of knowledge on climate change, including scientific findings and socio-economic impacts.
3. The IPCC's reports are critical for international climate negotiations, as they provide the scientific basis for discussions and policy-making efforts like the Paris Agreement.
4. The organization operates through a rigorous peer-review process to ensure that its findings are credible and reflective of the most recent scientific advancements.
5. The IPCC is comprised of thousands of scientists from around the world, who volunteer their expertise to help evaluate climate research and provide a comprehensive understanding of climate change.

Review Questions

• How does the IPCC contribute to international efforts in combating climate change?
  • The IPCC contributes significantly to international climate action by providing essential scientific assessments that inform global agreements like the Paris Agreement. Its comprehensive reports synthesize research findings and present them in a way that policymakers can understand, making it easier for governments to agree on measures to mitigate climate change. By establishing a common understanding of the science behind climate change, the IPCC helps facilitate discussions and negotiations among countries.
• Discuss the implications of the IPCC's findings on national policies related to greenhouse gas emissions.
  • The findings of the IPCC have direct implications for national policies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Countries often use the data and projections provided by the IPCC to shape their climate strategies, set emission reduction targets, and develop adaptation plans. As the IPCC emphasizes the urgent need for action based on scientific evidence, national governments are pressured to implement robust policies that align with international commitments, leading to more stringent regulations and investments in renewable energy technologies.
• Evaluate how the work of the IPCC influences public perception and political discourse surrounding climate change.
  • The work of the IPCC has a profound influence on public perception and political discourse regarding climate change. By presenting clear evidence about the realities and risks associated with climate change, the IPCC helps to shift public opinion towards recognizing climate issues as urgent. This can lead to increased advocacy for climate action among citizens and influence politicians to prioritize environmental policies. Ultimately, effective communication of the IPCC's findings can mobilize grassroots movements and reshape narratives around climate change in various contexts.

Related terms

Climate Change: A long-term alteration in temperature and typical weather patterns in a place, significantly influenced by human activities, particularly fossil fuel combustion.

Paris Agreement: An international treaty adopted in 2015 that aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius compared to pre-industrial levels, with efforts to restrict the temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

Greenhouse Gases: Gases such as carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect and climate change.