IPCC Synthesis Report published today
17 November 2007
Today the IPCC publishes its Synthesis Report, the result of many years work in reviewing the vast and complex science related to climate change.
The IPCC has worked with scientists around the world to collect, assess and process the body of solid and up-to-date scientific literature.
Commenting on the report, Professor Alan Thorpe, Chief Executive of the Natural Environment Research Council, said, "This IPCC synthesis incorporates the weight of evidence on climate change produced by scientists worldwide and the UK community has contributed strongly to this evidence. It is vital that societal action is based on the latest scientific evidence."
Corinne Le Quere from the British Antarctic Survey said, "I feel like the Berlin Wall of climate change has come down today, and left all the sceptics behind. I look forward to seeing the debate shifting from the science to the political arena, and to seeing how rapidly actions will be taken to minimise climate change and its impacts. Thousands of scientists have given a clear message today, I fully stand behind the report."
Dr Dave Reay from the University of Edinburgh said, "The Fourth Assessment Report is a triumph - a definitive guide for policymakers to the science, impacts, and mitigation of climate change. It is now up to the policymakers to ensure the Fifth Assessment Report has less about what could be done and more about what has been."
He added, "Next month in Bali the politicians must agree a post-Kyoto roadmap for the world's climate, in this Synthesis Report they have their driving manual."
Climate change research continues as a high priority for NERC, as demonstrated in our new strategy 'Next Generation Science for Planet Earth', which was also published this week.
Further information
NERC Press Office
Natural Environment Research Council
Polaris House, North Star Avenue
Swindon, SN2 1EU
Tel: 01793 411727 or 411561
Mob: 07917 086369 or 557215
Press release: 45/07
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