IPCC

Many are familiar with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) for its extensive, detailed reports on climate change that often make headlines. The IPCC is part of the United Nations, bringing together and summarizing scientific literature on climate change for policymakers. The IPCC regularly publishes reports on the international state of knowledge regarding climate change and its consequences. These reports are designed to inform and assist policymakers worldwide in making well-informed decisions.

7th IPCC report in the pipeline

Preparations for a special report on cities and climate change, due for release in 2027, began in 2024. The 7th IPCC report was also initiated. As part of these two new IPCC reports, KIN organized two expert consultations in the Netherlands with specialists from both science and practice. Prof. Bart van den Hurk, scientific director at Deltares, co-chairs the working group on climate impacts and adaptation, alongside his team, in leading the development of these reports.

Relevance and applicability

The goal of the (practice) experts consultation is to provide (urban) policymakers, civil society organizations, researchers, and other stakeholders the opportunity to suggest themes and issues they would like to see included in the report, outline the dilemmas they face, and identify the knowledge they need to implement effective climate policies. By bringing together diverse perspectives (such as policy, youth, justice, health, behavior, and finance), we contribute to the relevance and applicability of the IPCC reports. During the meetings, Dutch delegates for the IPCC scoping sessions were present to gather input and incorporate it into the international discussions.