The pressing demand for informed climate decision-making has been emphasized by the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), a coalition comprising 39 members. They are advocating for an international commitment to deliver critical inputs for the forthcoming assessments from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the leading global authority on climate science.

Ahead of a significant gathering of climate experts at the 62nd session of the IPCC in Hangzhou, China, AOSIS released a statement emphasizing the urgency of this matter. The members underscored that timely inputs are vital to preempt the most severe consequences of climate change.

The apprehension among Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs) is palpable. There are concerns that the Seventh Assessment Report of the IPCC, which is expected to offer crucial scientific insights, may not be available in time to impact the subsequent session of the Global Stocktake (GST). The GST serves as an essential mechanism for evaluating global progress toward the climate goals laid out by the Paris Agreement. Notably, it helps nations identify deficiencies in their climate commitments and encourages cooperative efforts to bring about necessary changes.

Without the guidance of the IPCC’s report for the upcoming GST, AOSIS has expressed that pivotal areas such as adaptation, mitigation, and climate financing may not receive adequate attention. The omission of up-to-date scientific contributions could result in the prioritization of politically feasible actions rather than those grounded in extensive scientific research.

Ambassador Ilana Seid, Chair of AOSIS, highlighted the necessity of integrating scientific findings into climate actions, especially given the increase in global emissions, which exacerbate climate-related impacts like sea level rise and extreme weather events. Recent devastation in the Caribbean underscores this urgency.

“Our islands are shouldering the undeniable consequences of climate change as we speak. Actions driven by accurate data are crucial if we wish to combat this crisis effectively. The IPCC reports are pivotal to global climate comprehension and initiatives,” asserted Seid.

During COP28 in the UAE, the global community reaffirmed their commitment to uphold the legitimacy of climate science. The Global Stocktake plays a fundamental role in assessing our advancement towards the Paris Agreement’s objectives, specifically the goal of limiting warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

“The forthcoming Global Stocktake process will commence in 2026. Countries need to act on their recognition that timely insights from the IPCC are indispensable to its process. To falter is to irreversibly derail our progress,” Seid further conveyed.

The chair emphasized the profound impact that robust scientific analysis can have on enhancing collective understanding and preparedness in addressing climate change. The Global Stocktake is essential for recognizing shortcomings in worldwide climate strategies, and inclusive science that takes into account the unique circumstances of SIDS and LDCs is key to crafting a resilient and sustainable future for all.

Against the backdrop of existing climate threats to SIDS, AOSIS is advocating for prioritizing scientific approaches. “As we navigate an era fraught with the perilous effects of misinformation, we must elevate our strategies with rigorously vetted data and comprehensive analysis. Accessible and actionable climate science is crucial for everyone. Our future is at stake,” stressed Seid.