Research programmes

Rigorous and relevant climate change research is crucial in meeting our policy objectives.

Our research objectives are to:

• Undertake an ambitious, innovative and interdisciplinary programme of research, firmly grounded in theory but with practical applications, linking science and social science and combining quantitative and qualitative approaches; and
• Conduct research of the highest academic standard, subjecting it to internal and external review through seminars, briefings and publication.

There are five interlinked research programmes:

1. Developing climate science and economics|

Improves our understanding of the nature of the uncertainties in complex climate models, to help policy makers manage the risks and uncertainties of climate change policy and balance their investments in adaptation and mitigation.

2. Climate change governance for a new global deal|

Examines the setting of international negotiations, alternatives to state-based governance to combat climate change, and the human rights and social justice aspects of climate change mitigation and adaptation.

3. Adaptation to climate change and human development|

Builds understanding of the links between human development and climate change.

4. Governments, markets and climate change mitigation|

Looks at design, delivery and impacts of different forms of policy on business, and seeks to improve the prospects for market-based approaches to climate change mitigation.

5. The Munich Re programme|: evaluating the economics of climate risks and opportunities in the insurance sector

This programme is funded by Munich Re and benefits from research collaborations across the industry and public sectors. It is a comprehensive research programme that focuses on the assessment of the risks from climate change and on the appropriate responses, to inform decision-making in the private and public sectors. A number of activities are being carried out as part of the programme, including the publication of technical papers and industry briefings, symposia, business roundtables and workshops.