The “NDCs 3.0 Regional Forum & Regional Capacity-Building Workshop on Carbon Pricing and Article 6 Training for the Pacific,” held in Apia, Samoa, from the 13th to 16th of August, 2024, aimed at building resilience and accelerating climate action across Pacific Island Countries. The training was co-organized by the UNFCCC Secretariat, including through its Regional Collaboration Centre for Asia and the Pacific (RCC Asia Pacific), the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) and the NDC Partnership, in cooperation with the UN Environment Programme and the Regional Pacific NDC Hub, with support from the UN Development Programme (UNDP).
This week-long training brought together technical experts, policymakers, and representatives from the region to deepen their understanding of NDCs 3.0, the Enhanced Transparency Framework (ETF) and opportunities in international carbon markets under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. It provided an invaluable platform for Pacific nations to share best practices, co-create innovative solutions and foster stronger regional cooperation in the face of climate change. Throughout the week, participants engaged in insightful discussions, practical sessions and networking opportunities.
With the next generation of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) due in 2025, the training underscored the critical opportunity these new NDCs present for aligning global climate action with sustainable development goals. Discussions emphasized that the NDCs must be informed by the first Global Stocktake (GST), driving transformational changes across countries. Key objectives highlighted emphasized on unlocking finance, identifying technology and capacity needs, increasing resilience and ensuring inclusivity in climate action.
A central focus of this year’s training was the ETF, as Parties prepare to submit their first biennial transparency reports (BTRs) and national inventory reports. Importantly, Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) have the option to submit these reports at their discretion. The training stressed the importance of these submissions for demonstrating progress under the Paris Agreement, addressing gaps and identifying support needs. Providing technical support to facilitate timely BTR preparation and submissions for Pacific nations was highlighted as essential.
The training also delved into the role of international carbon markets and Article 6 mechanisms. Participation in these markets can attract foreign investment into renewable energy, reforestation and other green projects. This involvement holds the potential for significant revenue generation for Pacific Island nations, supporting local economies and funding sustainable development projects. Despite past challenges with the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) under the Kyoto Protocol, the training pointed to a renewed opportunity to enhance regional dialogues on effective carbon pricing strategies, stakeholder engagement and implementation pathways.
The event concluded with a strong emphasis on capacity building within the Pacific region. Participants acquired practical knowledge on advancing NDCs and leveraging financial mechanisms to support climate action. The training aimed to empower Pacific nations to navigate the complexities of the next generation of NDCs, engage effectively in international carbon markets, and enhance their transparency and reporting efforts.
ENDS
