The Ocean and Cryosphere in a Changing Climate

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is the leading international body for assessing the science related to climate change. It provides policymakers with regular assessments of the scientific basis of human-induced climate change, its impacts and future risks, and options for adaptation and mitigation. This IPCC Special Report on the Ocean and Cryosphere in a Changing Climate is the most comprehensive and up-to-date assessment of the observed and projected changes to the ocean and cryosphere and their associated impacts and risks, with a focus on resilience, risk management response options, and adaptation measures, considering both their potential and limitations. It brings together knowledge on physical and biogeochemical changes, the interplay with ecosystem changes, and the implications for human communities. It serves policymakers, decision-makers, stakeholders, and all interested parties with unbiased, up-to-date, policy-relevant information.

Summary for Policymakers
Technical Summary

1. Framing and Context of the Report
2. High Mountain Areas
3. Polar Regions
4. Sea Level Rise and Implications for Low-Lying Islands, Coasts and Communities
5. Changing Ocean, Marine Ecosystems, and Dependent Communities
6. Extremes, Abrupt Changes and Managing Risk
Cross-Chapter Box 9: Integrative Cross-Chapter Box on Low-Lying Islands and Coasts

Annex I: Glossary
Annex II: Acronyms
Annex III: Contributors to the IPCC Special Report on the Ocean and Cryosphere in a Changing Climate
Annex IV: Expert Reviewers of the IPCC Special Report on the Ocean and Cryosphere in a Changing Climate

Index