Short-lived climate forcers (SLCFs) are gases and particles that remain in the atmosphere for a short time. Yet, their impact on global warming is powerful. The Short-lived Climate Forcers Report 2027 by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) aims to improve how countries measure, report, and manage these emissions.
At its 61st Session in Sofia, Bulgaria (July 27–August 2, 2024), the IPCC agreed to begin preparing this new methodology report. This decision marks an important step in refining global climate inventories and enhancing transparency.
What the Short-lived Climate Forcers Report 2027 Covers
The Short-lived Climate Forcers Report 2027 focuses on human-made emissions from activities such as energy use, agriculture, and industry. It provides guidance for countries to report data more consistently.
The pollutants covered include:
- Nitrogen oxides (NOₓ)
- Carbon monoxide (CO)
- Non-methane volatile organic compounds (NMVOCs)
- Sulfur dioxide (SO₂)
- Ammonia (NH₃)
- Black carbon (BC) and organic carbon (OC)
However, methane and halogenated gases will not be included. They are already addressed under the Montreal Protocol and the Kigali Amendment.
Hydrogen (H₂) will appear in an appendix called “Basis for Future Methodological Development.” This addition reflects the ongoing uncertainty about hydrogen’s climate impact.
Why Short-lived Climate Forcers Matter
SLCFs have a strong but short-term effect on global temperatures. Because they remain in the atmosphere for only days or years, reducing them can lead to quick climate benefits.
For example, cutting black carbon can help cool the planet and improve air quality within a decade. Therefore, the Short-lived Climate Forcers Report 2027 is essential. It will help governments develop reliable national emission inventories, improve data accuracy, and design effective mitigation strategies.
The Experts Behind the Short-lived Climate Forcers Report 2027
The first Lead Author Meeting was held in Bilbao, Spain, from March 24–26, 2025. More than 100 scientists and experts joined the process. They were selected for their scientific expertise and to ensure geographical and gender balance.
The second meeting will take place in Istanbul, Türkiye, from October 7–9, 2025. The final report will be completed in 2027.
The Scientific Steering Committee, chaired by Takeshi Enoki and Mazhar Hayat, oversees the process. It includes members from across the globe, such as Maria José Sánz, Steve Smith, Veronika Ginzburg, and others. This collaboration ensures that the report reflects a wide range of perspectives.
Global Impact of the Short-lived Climate Forcers Report 2027
Addressing short-lived climate pollutants is crucial for near-term climate progress. Unlike CO₂, their removal can quickly reduce warming and improve air quality. As a result, this report supports the Paris Agreement’s goal of limiting global temperature rise.
Moreover, the report will strengthen international cooperation by offering consistent scientific methods. Consequently, nations can compare data and take coordinated action.
