In the News: Jessica O'Reilly

Reimagining Climate Science: Lessons from the IPCC’s Sixth Assessment

Why it matters:

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) wrapped up its Sixth Assessment Cycle (AR6) in 2023, marking a pivotal moment in global climate governance. A new topical collection in Climatic Change led by Hamilton Lugar School Associate Professor Jessica O’Reilly with co-authors Kari De Pryck and Hannah Hughes dives deep into what AR6 achieved—and what’s next.

The big picture:

AR6 was more inclusive and collaborative than ever, with increased participation from women and experts in developing countries. It played a key role in shaping the UN’s first Global Stocktake under the Paris Agreement, offering vital scientific input to accelerate climate action.

Key insights:

• IPCC–UNFCCC dynamics: The relationship between the IPCC and the UN climate body is evolving, with tensions over timelines and influence.
• Knowledge gaps: Capacity building and Indigenous knowledge remain underrepresented, raising questions about whose voices shape climate science.
• Participation & communication: Virtual meetings during COVID-19 expanded access but exposed new challenges. Media coverage of IPCC findings varied widely, especially on social platforms.

What’s next:

As the IPCC prepares for its Seventh Assessment Report (AR7), O’Reilly, de Pryck, Hughes, and other contributors to the topical collection urge the organization to move beyond “quick wins.” They call for deeper engagement with unresolved issues—such as debates over emerging and contested scientific knowledge, gaps in participation, and the challenge of maintaining policy relevance. The article calls for intentional reforms to ensure the IPCC remains a trusted source of climate expertise. Read the full article at SpringerLink.