ISB prof to be lead author for special UN climate report

Hyderabad: Professor Anjal Prakash, clinical associate professor (research) and research director at the Bharti Institute of Public Policy, Indian School of Business (ISB), has been appointed as a lead author for the upcoming special report on climate change and cities. This report will be included in the seventh assessment cycle of the United Nations' climate body, Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). The IPCC serves as the UN entity responsible for evaluating the scientific aspects of climate change, offering regular assessments regarding its scientific foundations, impacts, future risks, and strategies for adaptation and mitigation. The formal commencement of the IPCC's seventh assessment took place in July 2023 during the panel's 43rd session in Nairobi, Kenya. Professor Prakash is part of global cohort of 150 climate specialists, which includes coordinating lead authors, lead authors, and review editors for the special report. Notably, he is one of only four Indian representatives within this group. Expressing gratitude for this recognition, professor Prakash stated, "I am profoundly honoured and extremely thankful to be selected as a lead author for the IPCC special report on climate change and cities. This represents a crucial juncture for urban sustainability, and I am eager to lend my expertise to this vital assessment. I am dedicated to collaborating with a remarkable team of colleagues to produce a comprehensive and influential report that will aid urban decision-making in addressing climate change." He has authored over 34 research papers in esteemed peer-reviewed journals and has co-edited nine books along with 29 book chapters.