Abstract

The IPCC Working Group II contribution to the Fifth Assessment Report (WGII AR5 ) released on 31 March 2014 comprises 30 chapters, a Technical Summary, and a Summary for Policymakers. Chapter 24 of WGII AR5 focuses on Asia covering vulnerability and exposure of human and natural systems, observed impacts and future risks of climate change as well as the potential for and limits to adaptation. Ten key risks have been identified for Asia, which include increased riverine, coastal and urban flooding; increased risk of heat related mortality; and increased risk of drought related water and food shortage. More research is required to address knowledge gaps in the region. In this context, the Asian Network on Climate Science and Technology (ANCST), funded by the Cambridge Malaysian Education and Development Trust (CMEDT) and Malaysian Commonwealth Studies Centre (MCSC) is an excellent platform to mobilise Asian scientists to meet research needs for the region. ANCST provides information and develops research coordination projects, focussing on particular aspects specific to Asian conditions and phenomena, encompassing topics such as disaster prevention and climate resilience; downscaling and regional based parameterisations; climate change mitigation, carbon sequestration and low carbon economy; atmosphere-ocean interactions, as well as climate and ecosystems change, among others.