Yesterday, members of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), including Chairman Pachauri, gave an update on IPCC activities and the progress of AR5 to the attendees of COP 16.  The first part of the report, “Climate Change 2013: The Physical Science Basis”, is due to be released in 2013.   Chairman Pachauri states that the outline of the synthesis report is already complete.  In addition, great strides have been made to improve AR5, including the strengthening of the processes and procedures of the IPCC.

There are also two special reports that are in preparation by the IPCC.  The first special report, “Managing the Risks of Extreme Events and Disasters to Advance Climate Change Adaptation”, will detail what are the observed and projected changes in climate extremes and disasters.  The second special report, “Renewable Energy Sources and Climate Change Mitigation”, is focused on all aspects of alternative energy sources, including bioenergy, solar, geothermal, hydro, ocean and wind.  The report will also consist of a chapter on mitigation potential and costs for the individual renewable energy sources.

Overall, it seems that the IPCC is making an increased effort in communication, and this AR5 and special report update at the COP is evidence of that.  More information on the IPCC and the upcoming reports can be found here.

Written by KEVIN REED.