Welcome to Responding to Climate Change 2007

Francesca Broadbent, Editor (RTCC)

Responding to Climate Change (RTCC) is now in its seventh edition, and the need for wider debate on climate change is as great as it was when we first launched in 2000. The rhetoric that surrounds this issue is in danger of delaying further decisions to act, and increasing avoidable damage. Our role is to communicate and present real actions and responses in counteracting climate change.

This year we continue to explore how companies, organisations and governments are reacting in terms of current development, possible solutions and actual action. These are divided into our standard three key areas: society, and development, research and education and also Africa.

As the poorest region, Africa is the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. It does not have the same adaptation capability because of the widespread poverty and the inter-linked issues such as drought, flooding, disease and conflict. The fact that, this year, the conference is being hosted by the Kenyan government must further acknowledge and mobilise the focus and urgency of climate change discussions.

I would like to thank all everyone who has contributed in every way. It is positive that people of all industries and associations are willing to share information, viewpoints and ideas, and it is key to moving forward. We hope you find it of use and interest.

RTCC is accredited as an official observer to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change process. We are a non governmental organisation showcasing policies, innovations, technologies, products and services related to the mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions and adaptation to the impacts of climate change. This guide and its website (www.rtcc.org) are important components of a global exchange of knowledge about how best to respond to global climate and developmental challenges.