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Build up a knowledge base on climate change

Abstract

While it is useful to have a strong grasp of the overall concepts, including the possible global impacts of climate change, it is most important to be aware of the conditions at the national, regional and local levels. A great deal of information on the effects of climate change is available online. In addition, local coffee research institutes, coffee boards or associations can provide information or assist in finding other sources of information. There may be local organizations dedicated to climate change research, e.g. by capturing meteorological data or being involved in climate change adaptation.

Method

Desk study and online research on specific websites and information hubs.

Expected Results

Overview of the concept and terminology around climate change and climate variability .

Understanding of the past, current and likely future changes in climate at regional and local levels, and of the possible impacts of these changes.

Theory

The following guiding questions and websites can offer support in the creation of your individual knowledge base on climate change.

Guiding questions:
  • Are there climate trends and forecasts available for your coffee region? What do they predict?
  • What are the current climate change impacts on a global level, global, national or regional level (if available)?
  • Are there any research institutes that collect climate data (temperature, rainfall, weather events) for your region?
  • Who could you reach out to that would know about climate change and its effects?
  • Who are the current actors in climate change adaptation in your organization, region and/or country?
  • Is there any training available for your organization?
  • To what extent is climate change relevant to your work? What role could you play in addressing it?

List of websites and information hubs

coffee & climate website: www.coffeeandclimate.org

coffee & climate toolbox: www.toolbox.coffee

Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change: www.ipcc.ch/index.htm

World Bank Climate Change Knowledge Portal: climateknowledgeportal.worldbank.org

UNDP Country Specific Climate Change Profiles: www.undp.org/publications/undp-climate-change-country-profiles

CIAT International Center for Tropical Agriculture: alliancebioversityciat.org/research-themes/climate-action

Climate Change Information Centre CARE International: careclimatechange.org

WWF World Wild Life: www.worldwildlife.org/threats/effects-of-climate-change

UKCIP: www.ukcip.org.uk

Tearfund: www.tearfund.org/campaigns/climate-campaign