Key Insights from the IPCC Synthesis Report on Climate Change

Introduction

The Sixth Assessment Cycle’s Synthesis Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), adopted at the 58th Session in Interlaken, Switzerland on March 19, 2023, consolidates findings from the Sixth Assessment Report (AR6). It builds on inputs from three working groups and three special reports, providing a comprehensive overview of the current state of climate knowledge, impacts, risks, and necessary actions.

Key Findings and Themes

• Historical Emissions and Responsibility: The report emphasizes that historical emissions from developed nations have disproportionately impacted the global carbon budget. India’s contribution remains below 4% of cumulative global CO2 emissions, despite housing over 17% of the global population.
• Climate Justice and Equity: The principles of climate justice and equity are highlighted as crucial enablers for effective climate action in developing countries. Developed nations are urged to take rapid actions in emissions reduction and to provide financial and technological support to developing nations.
• Financial Support and Technology Transfer: Current financial flows from developed to developing nations are inadequate, failing to meet the necessary levels to address climate goals. The report reiterates the unmet promise of USD 100 billion, which is aimed at facilitating meaningful mitigation and adaptation efforts in less developed regions.
• Impact of CO2 Emissions: Scientific analysis confirms that CO2 is the primary greenhouse gas driving climate change. For every 1000 GtCO2 emitted, the global surface temperature increases by approximately 0.45°C. The remaining carbon budgets are critically limited to keep global warming below 1.5°C or 2°C.
• Urgency in Mitigation and Adaptation: The report advocates for urgent, deep, and rapid reductions in CO2 emissions alongside significant cuts in non-CO2 greenhouse gases. Immediate adaptation actions are also called for to mitigate projected losses and enhance climate resilience.
• Importance of Sustainable Development: The interdependence of climate action with sustainable development is underscored, focusing on enhancing ecosystem health, human well-being, and managing climate risks.
• International Cooperation: The role of international cooperation is emphasized as a critical factor for achieving ambitious climate change mitigation and adaptation goals. Aligning global finance flows with these ambitions is necessary to support vulnerable regions and populations.

Conclusion

The Synthesis Report reiterates the need for an integrated approach to tackling climate change, involving enhanced international cooperation, equitable financial mechanisms, and robust policy frameworks guided by the principles of climate justice and equity. It supports the initiative “Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE),” promoting sustainable living practices globally to reduce emissions and preserve environmental health. This document serves as a call to action for all nations, particularly urging developed countries to fulfill their responsibilities in mitigating climate change and supporting global efforts towards a sustainable and resilient future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the main focus of the IPCC Synthesis Report?
Answer: The report consolidates findings on climate change, emphasizing historical emissions, climate justice, and the need for urgent action by developed nations to support developing countries.

Q2. Why is climate justice important according to the report?
Answer: Climate justice is crucial as it ensures equitable support for developing nations, enabling them to address climate challenges effectively while highlighting the responsibilities of developed countries.

Q3. How does CO2 emissions affect global temperatures?
Answer: Each 1000 GtCO2 emitted raises global surface temperatures by about 0.45°C, which significantly impacts climate stability and the remaining carbon budget.

Q4. What financial support is mentioned in the report?
Answer: The report highlights the unmet promise of USD 100 billion aimed at aiding mitigation and adaptation efforts in developing countries, which is crucial for addressing climate change.

Q5. What role does international cooperation play in climate action?
Answer: International cooperation is essential to achieve ambitious climate goals, enabling alignment of financial flows and resources to support vulnerable regions and populations effectively.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What percentage of cumulative global CO2 emissions does India contribute?
A) 2%
B) 4%
C) 10%
D) 17%
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: What is the primary greenhouse gas driving climate change?
A) Methane
B) Nitrous oxide
C) CO2
D) Ozone
Correct Answer: C

Question 3: Why is the concept of climate justice significant?
A) It promotes economic growth
B) It ensures equitable support for vulnerable nations
C) It focuses solely on emissions reduction
D) It is a legal requirement
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: What does the report suggest about financial flows to developing nations?
A) They are sufficient
B) They are inadequate
C) They are excessive
D) They are not mentioned
Correct Answer: B