The Met Office has announced the launch of the International Science Partnerships Fund (ISPF), a new initiative aimed at driving global collaboration in climate science research. The fund, which is led by the UK, will provide funding to support research partnerships between scientists in the UK and those in developing countries, with a focus on driving innovation and knowledge sharing.
The ISPF is part of the UK's commitment to supporting global efforts to combat climate change, and will provide funding for a range of research projects, including those focused on climate modelling, weather forecasting, and climate-resilient infrastructure.
The Met Office has stated that the ISPF is designed to help scientists in developing countries access the latest research and technology, and to support the development of their own climate science capabilities. This, in turn, is expected to help build resilience to the impacts of climate change and support sustainable development in these countries.
The ISPF is also seen as an opportunity to strengthen international partnerships and collaboration in climate science research, with the Met Office working closely with governments, research institutions, and other organisations to identify and support priority research projects.
The launch of the ISPF comes as the UK prepares to host the 26th Conference of the Parties (COP26) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, which will take place in Glasgow in November 2026. The conference is expected to bring together world leaders and climate experts to discuss global efforts to combat climate change and to agree on new commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.