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Climate Data Sources

IPCC Reports: The Voice of Climate Science

Understanding the world's most authoritative source of climate change knowledge

What is the IPCC?

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is the United Nations body responsible for assessing the science related to climate change. Founded in 1988, the IPCC produces comprehensive assessment reports that synthesize the latest scientific research on climate change, its impacts, and potential response strategies.

Unlike typical scientific organizations, the IPCC doesn't conduct its own research. Instead, it relies on the peer-reviewed scientific literature to provide policymakers with regular assessments of the state of knowledge about climate change. The IPCC has been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for its efforts to build up and disseminate greater knowledge about climate change.

195+ Countries

Member governments participate in IPCC activities and approve assessment reports.

800+ Scientists

Leading climate researchers volunteer their time to assess the scientific literature.

30+ Years

Continuous assessment since 1990, providing the foundation for climate policy worldwide.

Interactive IPCC Assessment Timeline

1990
IPCC Founded
2023
Latest Updates
1990

First Assessment Report (FAR)

Climate science basics

1995

Second Assessment Report (SAR)

Impacts and adaptation

2001

Third Assessment Report (TAR)

Comprehensive assessment

2007

Fourth Assessment Report (AR4)

Urgency and solutions

2013

Fifth Assessment Report (AR5)

Risks and opportunities

2021

Sixth Assessment Report (AR6)

Current state and future

IPCC Confidence Scale

Low
Medium
High
Very High

IPCC Working Groups

WG1: Physical Science
Climate system and changes
WG2: Impacts & Adaptation
Vulnerability and adaptation
WG3: Mitigation
Emission reduction options