Overview
World Climate Research Programme (WCRP) was established in 1980 to advance understanding of the Earth’s climate system and its variability and change. It operates as a global, science-driven initiative coordinating international climate research across disciplines and regions. The programme’s overarching purpose is to support robust climate knowledge that underpins decision-making, risk management and long-term societal planning in the context of climate change.
Mission and focus areas
WCRP’s mission is to facilitate analysis and prediction of Earth system behaviour, from seasonal variability to long-term climate change. It focuses on improving scientific understanding of climate processes, extremes, predictability and interactions between atmosphere, ocean, land and cryosphere. Core focus areas include climate modelling, observations, climate sensitivity, extremes, regional climate information and Earth system interactions. While not a finance-specific body, WCRP’s outputs provide foundational evidence used in climate risk assessment, scenario analysis and transition planning relevant to sustainable finance and ESG integration.
Structure and governance
WCRP operates under a defined governance framework led by a Joint Scientific Committee (JSC), which provides strategic direction and scientific oversight. The committee is supported by an international secretariat and a network of working groups, task teams and advisory bodies. The programme collaborates closely with global science organisations, national meteorological agencies and academic institutions, enabling coordinated research while maintaining a distinct operational identity.
Programs and offerings
WCRP delivers a range of scientific outputs, including peer-reviewed research coordination, major assessments, white papers and strategic science plans. It supports global climate modelling initiatives, observation networks and synthesis activities that contribute to international assessments such as those of the IPCC. In addition, WCRP convenes conferences, workshops and open science forums that disseminate climate knowledge and foster collaboration. These outputs are particularly valuable for policymakers, analysts and sustainability practitioners seeking credible, science-based inputs for climate risk evaluation and long-term planning.
Our mission
The World Climate Research Programme (WCRP) coordinates and facilitates international climate research to develop, share, and apply the climate knowledge that contributes to societal well-being.
