Introduction

This report synthesises the latest findings on climate change, highlighting the relationship between climate, ecosystems, biodiversity, and human societies. Drawing from the Sixth Assessment Report, it focuses on identifying effective, equitable, and transformative actions through system transitions and resilient development pathways.

Section 2: Current status and trends

Observed changes, impacts and attribution

Global warming, driven primarily by human-induced greenhouse gas emissions, has increased global surface temperatures by 1.1°C above pre-industrial levels, with more pronounced warming on land than oceans. This warming adversely affects food and water security, human health, economies, and particularly impacts vulnerable communities.

Responses undertaken to date

Despite international agreements and growing public awareness fostering climate action, and technological advancements making low-emission solutions more viable, the global financial response remains insufficient, especially in the realms of adaptation.

Current mitigation and adaptation actions and policies are not sufficient

The existing gap between declared national climate ambitions and their actual implementation, alongside an adaptation gap, underscores the urgency for enhanced efforts and financing, particularly in developing nations.

Long-term climate and development futures

Long-term climate change, impacts and related risks

Continued warming will escalate climate-related risks across all regions, potentially triggering abrupt and irreversible changes, especially if current warming trends persist.

Section 3: Long-term adaptation options and limits

As warming escalates, adaptation options diminish, increasing potential losses and reaching adaptation limits in numerous systems. Long-term, inclusive planning is necessary to mitigate maladaptation and manage challenges such as sea level rise.

Mitigation pathways

Achieving 1.5°C or 2°C targets requires swift, substantial emissions reductions across all sectors, and eventually, achieving net-negative global CO2 emissions to reverse temperature rises.

Long-term interactions between adaptation, mitigation and sustainable development

Mitigation and adaptation efforts can both support and conflict with sustainable development goals, with effectiveness varying significantly by region and development trajectory.

Section 4: Near-term responses in a changing climate

The timing and urgency of climate action

Immediate actions this decade are critical for shaping future climate-resilient development, with early adaptation and mitigation efforts providing significant benefits.

Benefits of strengthening near-term action

Proactive adaptation and mitigation not only enhance sustainable development but also reduce future costs and irreversible impacts, though they require substantial initial investment.

Near-term risks

Increased warming heightens risks of extreme weather events, biodiversity loss, water scarcity, and health issues, with compounded effects on vulnerable populations.

Equity and inclusion in climate change action

Emphasising equity and inclusion promotes sustainable outcomes, necessitating urgent adaptation efforts for at-risk communities and just transitions in decision-making processes.

Near-term mitigation and adaptation actions

Sector-wide rapid transitions are imperative, with region-specific feasibility and potential of various low-cost, low-GHG options playing a crucial role.

Co-benefits of adaptation and mitigation for Sustainable Development Goals

Climate actions often align with Sustainable Development Goals, with potential conflicts mitigable through strategic policies and collaborations.

Governance and policy for near-term climate change action

Effective governance involves political commitment, multi-level collaboration, and leveraging diverse knowledge and partnerships to drive climate action.

Strengthening the response: Finance, international cooperation and technology

Key enablers include ramping up financing, fostering international cooperation, and catalysing technological innovations for widespread adoption.

Integration of near-term actions across sectors and systems

Integrating climate actions with broader sustainable development objectives offers multiple benefits, emphasising the need for comprehensive and equitable climate action to secure a sustainable future.

This report advocates for urgent, comprehensive, and equitable climate actions across all sectors to ensure a liveable and sustainable future, underscoring the importance of inclusivity and justice in these efforts.