IPCC's Fifth Assessment Report Looks at Climate Change Mitigation
Summary for Policymakers and Technical Summary
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has released the Working Group III contribution to its Fifth Assessment Report (AR5). The report, "Mitigation of Climate Change," focuses on the scientific, technological, environmental, economic, and social aspects of mitigating climate change.
The report presents an overview of the current state of knowledge on climate change mitigation and provides policymakers with a range of options for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The report also assesses the potential impacts of mitigation measures on the environment, economy, and society.
Key Findings
The report finds that it is still possible to limit global warming to 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, but it will require substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The report also finds that the longer we wait to take action on climate change, the more difficult and costly it will be to achieve our climate goals.
The report highlights the need for a portfolio of mitigation measures, including:
- Improving energy efficiency
- Switching to renewable energy sources
- Reducing deforestation
- Improving agricultural practices
The report also finds that mitigation measures can have a positive impact on the environment, economy, and society. For example, improving energy efficiency can reduce air pollution and create jobs. Switching to renewable energy sources can help to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and create new economic opportunities.
Policy Implications
The report provides policymakers with a clear and comprehensive assessment of the current state of knowledge on climate change mitigation. The report's findings provide a strong basis for informed decision-making on climate change policy.
The report's key messages for policymakers are:
- It is still possible to limit global warming to 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, but it will require substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.
- The longer we wait to take action on climate change, the more difficult and costly it will be to achieve our climate goals.
- A portfolio of mitigation measures is needed to achieve our climate goals.
- Mitigation measures can have a positive impact on the environment, economy, and society.
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