Revisiting the IPCC's "Discernible Human Influence" Finding - History and Lessons Learned

Explore the historical significance and scientific evolution of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's (IPCC) 1995 conclusion on human influence on global climate. Delve into Prof. Bert Bolin's crucial role in achieving consensus and defending this groundbreaking finding. Examine the initial supporting evidence, including greenhouse gas properties, warming observations, and climate fingerprinting. Investigate the criticisms faced and the scientific community's comprehensive response through expanded research. Trace the post-1995 advancements in climate fingerprinting, from stratospheric to deep ocean studies, and the development of multi-model ensembles and improved observational assessments. Gain insights into how the original "discernible human influence" statement has been reinforced and expanded over time. Conclude with valuable lessons learned from direct involvement in the 1995 IPCC report, providing a unique perspective on this pivotal moment in climate science history.

Revisiting the IPCC’s “Discernible Human Influence” Finding: History and Lessons Learned (Invited)