Share
Coordinate Internationally
The long-term strength of U.S. global change research—from sustaining Earth observations, to assessing global climate, to preparing for global change—depends on close engagement with international efforts. USGCRP coordinates U.S. research activities with other nations and international organizations; promotes international scientific cooperation and access to data; and supports research to build adaptive capacity in developing countries.
International Partnerships
Drawing on collective knowledge and expertise across our participating federal agencies, USGCRP is uniquely positioned to identify synergies with international organizations and pursue collaborative programs that bridge the environmental and societal challenges faced by governments, businesses, and communities. These partnerships enhance international scientific exchange and enable more informed, science-based decisions—domestically and globally.
We engage with a range of international programs, including
- Future Earth
- DIVERSITAS
- The World Climate Research Programme (WCRP)
- The International Geosphere-Biosphere Programme (IGBP)
- The International Human Dimensions Programme (IHDP)
- The International Social Science Council (ISSC)
- The International Group of Funding Agencies (IGFA) for Global Change Research
- The International Council for Science (ICSU)
- The Science and Technology Alliance for Global Sustainability
- The SysTem for Analysis, Research and Training (START)
- The Inter-American Institute for Global Change Research (IAI)
- The Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research (APN)
International Scientific Assessments
USGCRP coordinates and supports U.S. participation in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Assessment Reports. We also facilitate U.S. involvement in efforts like the Scientific Assessments of Ozone Depletion (World Meteorological Organisation/United Nations Environmental Programme; WMO/UNEP) and the Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Programme (AMAP). Scientists affiliated with and supported by USGCRP are key contributors to major international assessments of global change: they are lead authors, working group co-chairs, and reviewers who provide technical support and scientific expertise.
International Earth Observations
Sustained Earth observing systems are essential to global change research and depend on the joint efforts of multiple countries to ensure consistent and comprehensive data collection. USGCRP works with organizations like the Group on Earth Observations and the Interagency Working Group on Digital Data, which help to standardize, coordinate, and ensure the continuity and usability of observational data.
More information: