Background on IPCC Reports:
Since 1988, the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has produced various assessment reports, special reports, and methodology reports.
These reports, prepared by scientists from 195 countries, examine the science, consequences, adaptation, and vulnerability, as well as mitigation aspects of climate change.
Findings of the Sixth Assessment Report (AR6):
Warned about the urgency to limit the rise in the world’s average surface temperature to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
Stressed the need for options and strategies to slow warming, adapt, and build resilience in natural and human-made systems.
Initiation of the Seventh Assessment Cycle (AR7):
Initiated after the AR6 synthesis report, with the election of an IPCC bureau.
In January 2024, bureau members met in Turkey to discuss budgeting, timelines, and the work programme for AR7.
Input and Discussions for AR7 Cycle:
The Informal Group on Lessons Learned produced a paper consolidating learnings from the AR6 cycle and submissions from member countries.
Discussions in Turkey also included options for publication and clustering of reports.
Global Stocktake (GST):
Conducted every five years by UNFCCC countries to assess progress towards Paris Agreement goals.
IPCC requested to align its work with subsequent stocktakes, with the second GST due in 2028.
Reports Planned for AR7 Cycle:
Bureau agreed to produce full assessment and synthesis reports, methodology reports, and a special report.
Full assessment reports will include reports from three Working Groups plus a synthesis report.
Methodology reports will focus on short-lived climate forcers and carbon removal.
Timeline for Reports:
Several member countries asked for assessment reports to be ready by 2028 to coincide with the GST.
Challenges include the time required for review, finalization, and publication, as well as engagement with under-represented communities.
Decision on the timeline pending, with special and methodology reports set for publication in 2027.
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