South African Scientist Aims to Lead Key Climate Change Organisation

Durban-based climate researcher Professor Debra Roberts is vying for the prestigious position of chair of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), aiming to become the first African woman to hold this role. The IPCC, a United Nations body, is globally recognised as the foremost institution combating climate change and producing authoritative scientific reports on the subject as reported by News 24.

Roberts, who has a distinguished background in academia and municipal planning, brings three decades of experience to the table.

Having witnessed the impact of climate change firsthand through devastating floods in Durban, Roberts emphasises that the effects are already being felt and will continue to intensify. She underscores the need for the IPCC to remain impartial and science-driven in a politically divisive landscape, ensuring its reports maintain their global influence and credibility.

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Roberts also stresses the importance of empowering vulnerable communities while addressing climate change, recognising that their immediate concerns revolve around basic needs and livelihoods. With an increased societal reliance on scientific evidence, she believes climate change denialists hold less sway, and the voices of young activists like Greta Thunberg are making a positive impact.

Roberts aims to amplify Africa’s presence within the IPCC and encourages early career and established scientists to engage actively. President Cyril Ramaphosa endorses Roberts, highlighting her ability to bridge academia, policymaking, and practice while championing inclusive and comprehensive assessments of scientific priorities for all countries.

Alongside Roberts, three other candidates, including Professor Jean-Pascal van Ypersele, Thelma Krug, and Jim Skea, are running for the IPCC chair position.

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