Summary

Climate Change 2001: Impacts, Adaptation, and Vulnerability is the most comprehensive and up-to-date scientific assessment of the consequences of, and adaptation responses to, climate change. The report: * Evaluates evidence that recent observed changes in climate have already affected a variety of physical and biological systems. * Studies the vulnerabilities of human populations to future climate change, including associated sea-level rise and climate extremes such as floods. * Takes into account potential impacts on water resources, agriculture and food, human health, settlements, and economic activities. * Assesses potential responses to climate change of natural environments and the wildlife that inhabit them and identifies environments at particular risk. * Considers how adaptation to climate change might lessen adverse impacts or enhance beneficial impacts. * Provides an overview of the vulnerabilities and adaptation possibilities for all major regions of the world. * Contrasts the different vulnerabilities of the developed and developing parts of the world and explores the implications for sustainable development and equity concerns. This latest IPCC assessment will again form the standard scientific reference for all concerned with environmental and social consequences of climate change, including students and researchers in environmental and social sciences, and policymakers and managers in governmental, industry and other organizations responsible for resources likely to be affected by climate change.