Most of the observed increase in globally averaged temperatures since the mid 20th century is very likely due to the observed increase in anthropogenic greenhouse gas concentrations. This is an advance since the TAR's [Third Annual Report's] conclusion that "most of the observed global warming over the last 50 years is likely to have been due to the increase in greenhouse gas concentrations." Discernable human influences now extend to other aspects of climate, including ocean warming, continental averaged temperatures, temperature extremes, and wind patterns.

The IPCC uses the terms "Likely" and "Very Likely" to indicate >66% and >90% certain, respectively. This Summary was the work of about 600 scientists and government representatives from 40 countries, including the United States. More than 620 experts and government representatives reviewed the report. The Summary was "approved at the 10th Session of Working Group I of the IPCC, February 2007." The IPCC defines

that “'approval' of IPCC Summaries for Policymakers signifies that the material has been subjected to detailed, line by line discussion and agreement.”
The review was carried out by representatives from 113 countries. All of the scientists involved in the production and review of this report are climate change experts. The conclusions and the language of the report requires unanimous consensus from the official government representatives from all 113 countries. Furthermore, there is general consensus

among major scientific bodies on the reality and seriousness of global warming issue:
• National Science Academies Joint Statement (US, UK, Russia, Japan, etc.)
• Kyoto Protocol
• 928 Peer reviewed scientific papers
• Arctic Climate Impact Assessment
• Our Changing Planet, US Climate Change Science Program Report
• IPCC
• National Academy of Sciences
• United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change

So, what does this tell us? Is a catastrophe certain if we continue with business as usual? No, scientists are cautious --that is why they deserve more trust than the media or politicians. It says that the chances are very high that we are significantly affecting our climate and these effects are likely to have serious consequences if we continue to dump huge quantities of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.

http://zfacts.com/p/831.html | 01/18/12 07:18 GMT
Modified: Sat, 02 Jun 2007 16:45:03 GMT