Island nations and territories across the Pacific are increasingly vulnerable to the growing impacts of climate change. However, the most recent and comprehensive global synthesis of climate change information, the IPCC’s Report on the Physical Science, is extremely technical.

ICEDS has been working on a project to help make the IPCC’s findings more readily accessible to Pacific audience and close a knowledge gap in the Pacific.

 “Enhancing awareness and understanding of IPCC reports – and climate change more broadly – amongst key stakeholders in the Pacific is critical to ensuring effective action is taken in the region to mitigate and adapt to climate change impacts”, said Professor Mark Howden, Director of the ANU Institute for Climate, Energy and Disaster Solutions (ICEDS).

In collaboration with Pacific partner organisations, a variety of communications products were developed, targeted primarily at Pacific decision makers.  These included factsheets, events, articles, podcasts, video and social media.

“The feedback received was highly positive, particularly in relation to capacity building, developing relationships, preparing for COP26 attendance and initiating other climate change related events” said Professor Howden. 

"Thanks so much for showcasing the Pacific talent that contributes to these important reports! I shared news of this event with my networks who might want a greater understanding of climate change," Event attendee.

The IPCC Sixth Assessment Report on Impacts, Adaptation and Vulnerability (WGII), will be launched in late February 2022. For more information on the project, visit the ICEDS website.