Global Warming: What You Need to Know

Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change

IPCC Fourth Assessment Synthesis Report: Summary for Policy Makers

NOTE: Un-edited copy prepared for COP-13. The entire report is subject to final copy-edit prior to its final publication.

This Synthesis Report is based on the assessment carried out by the three Working Groups of the IPCC. It provides an integrated view of climate change as the final part of the IPCC’s Fourth Assessment Report. A complete elaboration of the Topics covered in this summary can be found in this Synthesis Report and in the underlying reports of the three Working Groups.

Table of Contents

1. Observed changes in climate and their effects
2. Causes of change
3. Projected climate change and its impacts
4. Adaptation and mitigation options
5. The long-term perspective

Download the full report (PDF)

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