Transcript Report from UNFCCC session 1 (powerpoint)

Report from UNFCCC Session 1
Andrew Githeko
Pam Kertland
Presentations
• Overview of IPCC TAR Chpt2: Methods & Tools
• IPCC TAR findings re: adaptation
• Developing and applying scenarios
• Guidelines for impact assessment
• Perspectives from IPCC Task Group on Climate
Impact Assessment
Context I
• 2 drivers: UNFCCC & local policy-making
• Is the research that informs these processes the
same? If not, how to we use info from
assessments for decision-making and vice versa
• Decision-making requires inclusion of “knowledge”;
thus something that this type of research can
bring to the issue.
• Move from analytical approaches to practical
information for adaptation
• Recognize that adaptation must be part of
sustainable development and fit within national
policy planning period – normally 5 years
Context II
• Climate variability vs climate change – not an issue
for methodology. Climate change INCLUDES
climate variability
• Engagement in the issue often can only be done in
the context of addressing today’s needs; not 2050 years in the future
• Challenge is to ensure that actions taken now put
you on the right path for longer term adaptation
Methodology I
• Need to use many methodologies, particularly to
get at answers for action
• Methodologies need development - should borrow
from experience in socio-economic disciplines &
other environmental issues
• Need to capture knowledge, not just data
• Methodologies for policy development &
engagement need to be documented &
disseminated
• The process of selecting the appropriate
methodology is also important
Methodology II
• Start with a simple approach and add more
sophistication as needed; don’t burden people with
un-needed complexity at the start
• Integrated assessment more useful in analytical
context but since adaptation is part of larger
decision making – natural integration?
Guidelines
• Didn’t hear clear support or not
• They provide a framework but need to be careful
in how they are presented/communicated so they
are not interpreted in a rigid or limiting way
• Challenge of applying them in many different
social/political/etc. contexts that exist
Capacity
• Often at the mercy of international funding
– one focal point;
– positions fold when funding ends
• How to build capacity in others = training
• Complex methodology adds to this challenge
• Resources are constrained: Be realistic