Earth Negotiation Bulletins Archive

  • SB 36 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    In the afternoon, the opening plenary of the Ad Hoc Working Group on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action (ADP) reconvened. In the afternoon, an in-session workshop took place under the AWG-LCA to further the understanding of the diversity of NAMAs by developing countries. In the morning and afternoon, a number of contact groups and informal consultations took place under the SBI, SBSTA, AWG-KP and AWG-LCA. Read More
  • COPENHAGEN HIGHLIGHTS

    The Copenhagen Climate Change Conference opened on Monday morning with a welcoming ceremony. This was followed by the opening plenaries of COP 15, COP/MOP 5, AWG-LCA 8 and AWG-KP 10. Read More
  • TENTH CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 6-17 DECEMBER 2004

    The tenth Conference of the Parties (COP-10) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the 21st sessions of the COP’s Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) open today at La Rural Exhibition Center in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE 8TH SESSION OF WORKING GROUP III AND THE 24TH SESSION OF THE OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 22-28 SEPTEMBER 2005

    The 8th session of Working Group III (WGIII-8) of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the 24th session of the IPCC (IPCC-24) convened in Montreal, Canada, from 22-24 September and 26-28 September 2005, respectively. Over 220 participants representing governments and non-governmental organizations were in attendance at each of the meetings. Read More
  • 25th SESSION OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 26-28 APRIL 2006

    The twenty-fifth session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC-25) begins today in Port Louis, Mauritius. Delegates will consider a range of matters concerning the work, budget and organization of the IPCC, including: acceptance and adoption of the 2006 IPCC Guidelines for National Greenhouse Gas Inventories (2006 Guidelines); further work on emissions scenarios; election procedures for the IPCC Bureau and any Task Force Bureau; the IPCC communications strategy and outreach activities; a process and policy for admitting observer organizations; and the future work programme of the IPCC Task Force on National Greenhouse Gas Inventories. Delegates will also hear progress reports, including on the activities of the three IPCC Working Groups and the Task Group on Data and Scenario Support for Impact and Climate Analysis. Read More
  • COP 13 AND COP/MOP 3 HIGHLIGHTS

    Contact groups and informal consultations were held throughout the day on a wide range of issues, including: the AWG ; second review of the Protocol under Article 9 : long-term action under the Convention ; the Adaptation Fund ; the Buenos Aires programme of work on adaptation and response measures (Decision 1/CP.10) ; CDM ; compliance ; joint implementation ; reducing emissions from deforestation ; and technology transfer . In addition, an in-session workshop was held on mitigation , focusing on non-CO2 emissions, and an IPCC briefing on the Fourth Assessment Report (AR4) took place. Read More
  • SB 30 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning, the AWG-LCA met in an informal plenary . Throughout the day, various contact groups and informal consultations took place under the AWG-KP, AWG-LCA, SBI and SBSTA. Read More
  • COP 14 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Thursday, the high-level segment of the COP and COP/MOP began, with statements from more than 50 ministers and other heads of delegation continuing into the evening. An informal ministerial round table was also held, with participants discussing a shared vision for long-term cooperative action. In addition, contact groups and informal consultations took place throughout the day on a variety of issues, including the CDM, Joint Implementation, compliance, the Adaptation Fund , and the second review of the Protocol under Article 9. On Thursday evening, an informal meeting of ministers took place to give high-level consideration to outstanding issues. Read More
  • A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE

    Increasing scientific evidence about the possibility of global climate change in the 1980s led to a growing awareness that human activities have been contributing to substantial increases in the atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases. Concerned that anthropogenic increases of emissions enhance the natural greenhouse effect and would result, on average, in an additional warming of the Earth’s surface, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) established the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in 1988. The Panel focused on: assessing scientific information related to the various aspects of climate change; evaluating the environmental and socio-economic impacts of climate change; and formulating response strategies for the management of global climate change. In 1990, the finalization and adoption of the IPCC report and the Second World Climate Conference focused further attention on climate change. Read More
  • COP 12 AND COP/MOP 2 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Tuesday, SBSTA, SBI and AWG reconvened to complete their work for the current session. Contact groups and informal consultations were also held throughout the day on issues such as the Adaptation Fund, adaptation programme of work, AWG issues, capacity building, financial mechanism, Special Climate Change Fund, and technology transfer. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM FCCC SB-13 INFORMAL MEETINGS, FRIDAY-SATURDAY, 8-9 SEPTEMBER 2000

    Delegates to the informal meetings concluded their work ahead of the thirteenth sessions of the FCCC subsidiary bodies (SB-13). Informal meetings were held on: the mechanisms; compliance; capacity building; technology transfer; land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); FCCC Article 4.8 and 4.9 and Protocol Article 3.14 (adverse effects); and guidelines under Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information). Read More
  • CANCUN HIGHLIGHTS

    On Saturday morning, the SBSTA closing plenary convened along with a number of contact groups and informal consultations under the SBI, SBSTA, AWG-KP and the AWG-LCA. In the afternoon, the COP held an informal stocktaking plenary. In the evening, the COP/MOP informal stocktaking plenary and the SBI closing plenary took place. Read More
  • SB 26 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Tuesday, the AWG held an evening session to hear general statements, discuss mitigation potentials and ranges of the emission reduction objectives of Annex I parties, and review its work programme , methods of work and schedule of future sessions. Contact groups and informal consultations under the SBSTA and SBI continued on a variety of issues, including: the Adaptation Fund ; the budget ; deforestation ; IPCC guidelines for national greenhouse gas inventories ; privileges and immunities ; and technology transfer . In addition, two in-session workshops were held on mitigation, the first focusing on energy efficiency , the second on power generation . Read More
  • SB 26 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Thursday afternoon, an SBI plenary convened to consider pending issues relating to the SBI 26 agenda. Contact groups and informal consultations were also held throughout Thursday on a variety of issues, including: the budget for 2008-2009 ; non-Annex I communications ; IPCC’s 2006 Guidelines on national greenhouse gas inventories ; research and systematic observation ; small-scale afforestation and reforestation under the CDM ; and technology transfer . Read More
  • AWG-LCA 7 AND AWG-KP 9 HIGHLIGHTS

    Throughout Tuesday, various contact groups and informal consultations convened to consider adaptation, technology, mitigation, finance, capacity building and a shared vision under the AWG-LCA, and Annex I emission reductions, other issues and potential consequences under the AWG-KP. Read More
  • BONN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE

    The contact group on ADP item 3 addressed workstream 1 (2015 agreement), with a focus on intended nationally determined contributions (INDCs), throughout the day. A briefing on cooperation and support for domestic preparations for INDCs was held at lunchtime. In the afternoon, a follow up to the technical expert meetings (TEMs) on unlocking mitigation opportunities through renewable energy deployment, energy efficiency, urban environment and land-use improvements in the pre-2020 period, and an ADP stocktaking meeting took place. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE TWELFTH SESSIONS OF THE SUBSIDIARY BODIES OF THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 5-16 JUNE 2000

    The twelfth sessions of the subsidiary bodies (SB-12) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) were held from 12-16 June 2000 in Bonn, Germany, preceded by one week of informal meetings from 5-10 June. With almost 1700 participants in attendance representing 145 Parties, three observer States, 148 observer organizations and the media, delegates to SB-12 and the informal meetings continued to work toward fulfilling the Buenos Aires Plan of Action (BAPA) adopted at the Fourth Conference of the Parties (COP-4) in November 1998. Under the BAPA, Parties set a two-year deadline to strengthen FCCC implementation and to prepare for the future entry into force of the Kyoto Protocol. The Sixth Conference of the Parties (COP-6), scheduled to take place from 13-24 November 2000, in The Hague, the Netherlands, will mark the culmination of this two-year process. Read More
  • WARSAW HIGHLIGHTS

    Throughout the day, a number of contact groups and informal consultations were held under the SBI, SBSTA and ADP. These included: ADP open-ended consultations on elements of the 2015 agreement and the way forward under workstream 2; SBI informal consultations on national adaptation plans (NAPs); SBSTA informal consultations on methodological guidance for REDD+; SBI/SBSTA informal consultations on the development and transfer of technologies; SBI/SBSTA contact group on the forum on response measures; SBI/SBSTA informal consultations on the Adaptation Committee; and SBI/SBSTA contact group on the 2013-2015 Review. The COP President’s informal stocktaking plenary convened in the evening. Read More
  • REPORT OF THE SECOND SESSION OF THE AD HOC GROUP ON THE BERLIN MANDATE: 30 OCTOBER - 3 NOVEMBER 1995

    The second session of the Ad Hoc Group on the Berlin Mandate (AGBM 2), which took place in Geneva from 30 October - 3 November 1995, took the negotiations on a protocol or other legal instrument to strengthen the commitments of the Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) to a moderately new level. Debate over the extent of analysis and assessment continued, but delegates also heard new ideas on the structure and form of a possible protocol. No progress was made in electing the Bureau. Read More
  • SB 24 & AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    Contact groups and informal consultations continued throughout Wednesday on issues such as adaptation, the Adaptation Fund, arrangements for intergovernmental meetings, the Brazilian proposal, capacity building, the Mauritius Strategy on small island developing States, privileges and immunities, and technology transfer. In addition, the AWG convened for informal discussions throughout the day and into the night. Read More
  • COPENHAGEN HIGHLIGHTS

    On Friday, contact groups and informal consultations convened on a range of issues, including a shared vision, mitigation, adaptation, finance and technology under the AWG-LCA, Annex I emission reductions under the AWG-KP, and various topics under the SBSTA and SBI. Read More
  • DURBAN HIGHLIGHTS

    On Monday the AWG-LCA plenary met in the morning to discuss the amalgamation document presented by the Chair. Contact groups and informal consultations on several issues, including the technology executive committee (TEC), a proposal on voting, the CDM, the Adaptation Fund, LULUCF, finance, market approaches, adaptation and shared vision met throughout the day. Read More
  • LIMA HIGHLIGHTS

    On Wednesday, 3 December, the COP 20 and CMP 10 plenaries reconvened in the morning to open agenda items. The ADP contact group on item 3 considered the elements of adaptation and finance in parallel sessions, and mitigation once adaptation had concluded. In the afternoon, the ADP contact group considered the draft text on advancing the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action. A joint COP/CMP contact group also convened on issues related to the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM). Informal consultations took place throughout the day on items under the SBI and SBSTA. Read More
  • COP 12 AND COP/MOP 2 HIGHLIGHTS

    The twelfth Conference of the Parties (COP 12) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) began on Monday morning with an opening ceremony, speeches and consideration of organizational matters. This was followed in the afternoon by the opening of the second Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (COP/MOP 2). The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) began their work, and the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG) also convened briefly late in the afternoon. cop 12 OPENING SESSION Arthur Moody Awori, Vice-President of Kenya, officially opened the meeting. He noted that sub-Saharan Africa will be among the regions hardest hit by climate change and called for an environmentally sound and equitable global strategy to provide a post-2012 response to climate change. Anna Tibaijuka, Director-General of the UN Office at Nairobi and UN-HABITAT ‘s Executive Director, noted that the biggest environmental and human settlement challenges are in developing countries. In a video address, COP 11 President Rona Ambrose (Canada) underscored the need to find a truly effective global solution to climate change. The COP elected by acclamation Kivutha Kibwana, Kenya’s Minister of Environment and Natural Resources, as President of COP 12. President Kibwana said the Stern Review has highlighted the economic consequences of climate change. He identified key conference goals, including: agreeing on concrete activities for the five-year programme of work on adaptation; encouraging equitable distribution of CDM projects; and using the review of the mandate of the Expert Group on Technology Transfer (EGTT) for new thinking on technology transfer. UNFCCC Executive Secretary Yvo de Boer highlighted moving from assessment to action on adaptation, strengthening and making the CDM more accessible, Joint Implementation, technology transfer, and maintaining momentum in talks on the future. Read More
  • CANCUN HIGHLIGHTS

    Throughout Friday, a number of contact groups and informal consultations convened under the COP/MOP, SBI, SBSTA, AWG-LCA and AWG-KP. Read More
  • AWG 4 AND DIALOGUE 4 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Tuesday, the fourth Convention Dialogue workshop convened in plenary all day focusing on finance issues and their relation to an appropriate and effective international response to climate change. During the morning session, participants heard presentations on a report by the Secretariat on investment and financial flows, followed by questions and a panel discussion . In the afternoon, the workshop continued with an exchange of views among panel members, government representatives and civil society. Read More
  • EIGHTH CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 23 OCTOBER TO 1 NOVEMBER 2002

    The Eighth Conference of the Parties (COP-8) to the 1992 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Seventeenth Sessions of the COP’s Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) open today at the Vigyan Bhawan Conference Centre in New Delhi, India. Around 3,000 participants are expected to attend. This is the first COP since November 2001, when delegates completed three years of negotiations on the operational details of the Kyoto Protocol and agreed the Marrakesh Accords. Among other things, Parties will take up: national communications from Annex I and non-Annex I Parties, and their guidelines, and the new mandate and terms of reference of the Consultative Group of Experts on non-Annex I National Communications (CGE); the financial mechanism; capacity-building; implementation of UNFCCC Article 4.8 and 4.9 (adverse effects); the Third Assessment Report (TAR) of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC); ‘good practices’ in policies and measures (P&Ms); research and systematic observation (RSO); cooperation with relevant international organizations; UNFCCC Article 6 (education, training and public awareness); development and transfer of technology; and issues relating to hydrofluorocarbons and perfluorocarbons. Parties will also address methodological issues, including: guidelines under Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information); guidelines on reporting and review of Annex I greenhouse gas inventories; activities implemented jointly (AIJ); land use, land- use change and forestry (LULUCF); and scientific and methodological assessment of contributions to climate change. Other issues to be discussed include: cleaner or less greenhouse gas-emitting energy; the implementation of Protocol Article 2.3 (adverse effects of P&Ms); special circumstances of Croatia under UNFCCC Article 4.6 (flexibility for countries with economies in transition); the Croatian proposal on forest management activities under Protocol Article 3.4 (additional activities); a Canadian proposal on modalities for the accounting of assigned amounts under Protocol Article 7.4 (registries) in relation to cleaner energy exports; the request from a group of countries of Central Asia and the Caucasus, Albania and the Republic of Moldova (CACAM) for the clarification of the term ‘developing countries’ in the context of UNFCCC decisions; review of the adequacy of commitments under the UNFCCC; and a series of administrative and organizational matters. Read More
  • CLIMATE CHANGE CONVENTION COP-1 HIGHLIGHTS:: THURSDAY, 6 APRIL 1995

    MINISTERIAL SEGMENT REPUBLIC OF KOREA Amb. Soon-Young Hong called for strengthening emissions controls without jeopardizing the needs of developing countries. SAMOA: Amb. Tuiloma Slade, on behalf of AOSIS, said the COP must strengthen existing commitments and extend the legal framework of the Convention beyond 2000. COTE D’IVOIRE: Lancine... Read More
  • AWG-LCA 7 AND AWG-KP 9 HIGHLIGHTS

    Throughout the day, contact groups and informal consultations took place under the AWG-LCA on issues including a shared vision for long-term cooperative action, capacity building, mitigation and technology. In the evening, the AWG-KP plenary convened for a short meeting. Read More
  • UNFCCC SB 22 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Tuesday morning, delegates convened for a SBSTA round table on policies and measures of Annex I Parties. Contact groups and informal meetings were held throughout the day. SBI contact groups and informal meetings were held to discuss the programme budget for 2006-2007, non-Annex I communications, arrangements for intergovernmental meetings, the internal review of the Secretariat’s activities, and LDCs. SBSTA contact groups and informal meetings were held on various issues, including technology transfer, mitigation, adaptation, registry systems under the Kyoto Protocol, research needs in relation to the Convention, and the CDM as it relates to other environmental treaties. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-6 HIGHLIGHTS, THURSDAY, 23 NOVEMBER 2000

    Delegates met late morning for an informal high-level Plenary session to receive briefings on Wednesday night’s negotiations. This session was followed in the afternoon by bilateral and multilateral informal consultations. Shortly before 8:00 pm, a note by COP-6 President Pronk was distributed outlining proposals to assist in moving towards a ‘package deal’ on outstanding issues, and early Friday morning, delegates reconvened for a short informal Plenary to be briefed by President Pronk. Read More
  • Bonn Climate Change Conference, 1-11 June 2015

    The Bonn Climate Change Conference opened on Monday, 1 June, with a welcoming ceremony, which was followed by the opening plenaries of the ADP, SBSTA and SBI to open agenda items for consideration during SB 42 and ADP 2-9. In the morning, the ADP commenced the joint first reading of the negotiating text on general/objective. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-6 PART II HIGHLIGHTS, THURSDAY, 19 JULY 2001

    Delegates to the resumed Sixth Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC met in the morning to address organizational matters and hear the reports of the Co-Chairs of the negotiating groups that met from 16-18 July. In the afternoon, the High-Level segment of the meeting began with a ceremonial opening, followed by statements from Parties. In the evening, an informal High-Level Plenary marked the beginning of negotiations at the ministerial level. Read More
  • INC-11 HIGHLIGHTS: TUESDAY, 14 FEBRUARY 1995

    WORKING GROUP I In a debate punctuated by arguments among developing countries, and between all delegates and the Chair, informal consultations continued on the Co-Chairs’ draft decisions on the roles of the subsidiary bodies and the first review of national communications The International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives called... Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS OF FCCC COP-2: WEDNESDAY, 17 JULY 1996

    The Plenary met on the eighth day of the Second Conference of the Parties (COP-2) to the Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) to convene the Ministerial Segment. In the afternoon, a high-level Ministerial Round Table met. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MEETINGS OF THE FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES, 21 OCTOBER 1997

    Delegates to the seventh session of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI-7) discussed communications from Parties included in Annex I, the review process for the financial mechanism, proposed amendments to the Convention and mechanisms for consultations with NGOs. Discussions in the seventh session of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technical Advice (SBSTA-7) centered on the roster of experts, the development and transfer of technologies and methodological issues. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE SIXTH SESSION OF THE AD HOC GROUP ON THE BERLIN MANDATE: THURSDAY, 6 MARCH 1997

    Delegates to the sixth session of the Ad Hoc Group on the Berlin Mandate (AGBM-6) considered a draft proposal submitted by the Chair on policies and measures (P&Ms). They commented on the organization and form of the proposal, but did not engage in substantive debate. AGBM also received the report of the non- group on elements related to advancing the implementation of existing commitments in Article 4.1. The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) reconvened to conclude its work on the review of the financial mechanism. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 5 AND AWG-KP 7 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Thursday, AWG-LCA contact groups met to consider mitigation , shared vision and adaptation . The AWG-KP convened contact groups on Annex I emission reductions , flexibility mechanisms , LULUCF and potential consequences of response measures . Read More
  • WARSAW HIGHLIGHTS

    Throughout the day, a number of contact groups, informal consultations, workshops and other events convened under the COP, CMP, SBI, SBSTA and ADP. These included: ADP workshop on urbanization and the role of governments in facilitating climate action in cities; ADP open-ended consultations on elements of the 2015 agreement; SBI informal consultations on national adaptation plans (NAPs); COP informal consultations on issues related to finance; SBI informal consultations on the review of CDM modalities and procedures; SBI informal consultations on the AFB report; SBI informal consultations on loss and damage; and SBI/SBSTA informal consultations on the development and transfer of technologies. Read More
  • Bonn Climate Change Conference

    The Bonn Climate Change Conference continued on Wednesday, 3 June. ADP negotiating groups took up the first reading of the sections on time frames, and implementation and compliance in the Geneva negotiating text in the morning, and the preamble, and procedural and institutional provisions in the afternoon. Informal facilitated group discussions on these issues and adaptation and finance took place. The TEM on renewable energy supply convened throughout the day. Read More
  • COP 13 AND COP/MOP 3 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Wednesday morning, the high-level segment began, with opening statements from the UN Secretary-General, the President of Indonesia and other invited speakers. This was followed by presentations from heads of UN bodies and specialized agencies , and statements from 48 ministers and heads of delegation. In addition, c ontact groups and informal consultations continued throughout the day on issues relating to the Bali roadmap, the CDM , joint implementation , and compliance . Read More
  • AWG-LCA 14 AND AWG-KP 16 HIGHLIGHTS

    The UN Climate Change Conference continued on Wednesday in Panama City. In the morning, the AWG-LCA contact group convened. The AWG-KP contact group on consideration of further commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol met in the afternoon. Informal and spin-off groups convened throughout the day under the AWG-LCA and AWG-KP. Under the AWG-LCA informal groups took place on developed country mitigation, developing country NAMAs, the Review, legal options, adaptation, various approaches, including opportunities for using markets, to enhance the cost-effectiveness of, and to promote, mitigation actions, finance, sectoral approaches and sector-specific actions and technology transfer. Under the AWG-KP, spin-off groups convened on Annex I emission reductions and LULUCF. The COP Presidency for COP 17 held open-ended informal consultations with parties in the afternoon. Read More
  • COP 11 AND COP/MOP 1 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Friday, delegates convened in contact groups and informal consultations on numerous issues, including the financial mechanism, technology transfer, adaptation, mitigation, LDCs, the CDM Executive Board’s report, implications of the CDM for other environmental treaties, the Kyoto Protocol’s international transaction log, compliance, research and systematic observation, Annex I communications, and the IPCC Special Report on carbon dioxide capture and storage. Read More
  • UNFCCC SB-16 HIGHLIGHTS, TUESDAY, 11 JUNE 2002

    On Tuesday, SBI convened in the morning to consider national communications from non-Annex I Parties, implementation of UNFCCC Article 4.8 and 4.9 (adverse effects), least developed countries (LDCs) and capacity building. Following SBI’s conclusion, SBSTA met to address the adoption of its agenda, technology transfer, the proposal on cleaner or less greenhouse gas-emitting energy, and implementation of Protocol Article 2.3 (adverse effects of policies and measures). Read More
  • UNFCCC WORKSHOP ON ADAPTATION PLANNING AND PRACTICES UNDER THE NAIROBI WORK PROGRAMME: 10-12 SEPTEMBER 2007

    The UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Workshop on Adaptation Planning and Practices under the Nairobi Work Programme on Impacts, Vulnerability and Adaptation to Climate Change (NWP) was held from 10-12 September 2007, at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy. The workshop focused on adaptation planning and practices, one of the nine areas of work under the NWP. Approximately 150 participants were in attendance, representing governments, UN agencies and constituted bodies, academia, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and those contributing as experts. The workshop aimed to identify action pledges from organizations to fill capacity gaps and address challenges in adaptation planning and practice. The workshop concluded with a number of recommendations for adaptation planning and practices, and action pledges from several organizations. The report of the workshop will be forwarded to SBSTA 28, scheduled for June 2008. Adaptation planning and practices are important for governments, regional authorities and communities who must plan and decide on how best to reduce their vulnerability to climate change, and how adaptation can be implemented in the most effective manner. The objectives of this area of work under the NWP are to collect, analyze and disseminate information on past and current practical adaptation actions and measures, including projects, short and long-term strategies, and local and indigenous knowledge, and to facilitate communication and cooperation among and between parties and relevant organizations, business, civil society, decision makers and other stakeholders. This can be done through: exchanging information on experiences, lessons learned, constraints and barriers; promoting different ways and means for information sharing and for the enhancement of cooperation among parties and relevant sectors, institutions and communities; promoting understanding of response strategies, including early warning systems and local coping strategies; and assessing ways and means to support adaptation. Ongoing activities under this area of work include workshops, mandated submissions, action pledges, dissemination of good practices, and identification of activities that will help fill knowledge gaps. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM FCCC SB-13 INFORMAL MEETINGS, THURSDAY, 7 SEPTEMBER 2000

    Delegates to the informal meetings preceding SB-13 met in a Plenary session to take stock of progress. They also met to consider: the mechanisms; FCCC Article 4.8 and 4.9 and Protocol Article 3.14 (adverse effects); compliance; capacity building; technology transfer; land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); policies and measures (P&Ms); and guidelines under Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information). Read More
  • REPORT OF THE THIRD SESSION OF THE AD HOC GROUP ON THE BERLIN MANDATE: 5-8 MARCH 1996

    The third session of the Ad Hoc Group on the Berlin Mandate (AGBM 3) was held in Geneva from 5-8 March 1996. Delegates heard a number of new, specific proposals on new commitments for Annex I Parties, including a two-phase C02 emissions reduction target proposed by Germany. They also discussed how Annex I countries might distribute or share new commitments, and whether those should take the form of an amendment or protocol. Developing countries raised questions on whether policies and measures under discussion would represent barriers to trade. Delegates agreed to compile proposals for new commitments for consideration at the next session of the AGBM, and to hold informal roundtable discussions on policies and measures as well as on quantitative emissions limitation and reduction objectives. Read More
  • INC-11 HIGHLIGHTS: WEDNESDAY, 8 FEBRUARY 1995

    PLENARY The Plenary met Wednesday morning so that AOSIS could introduce its draft protocol and Germany could introduce its proposal for further elements of a protocol. Afterwards, the Plenary addressed Agenda Item 4, Review of Annexes to the Convention, and Agenda Item 5(c), Location of the Permanent Secretariat. The... Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-7 HIGHLIGHTS, TUESDAY, 30 OCTOBER 2001

    Delegates to the Seventh Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC met in parallel sessions of the SBI and SBSTA. SBI considered matters relating to Annex I communications, LDCs, the report of the GEF, the programme budget for 2002-2003, and other matters. SBSTA addressed various methodological issues, technology transfer, policies and measures (P&Ms), and cooperation with relevant international organizations. Negotiating groups on the mechanisms, compliance and Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information) also began their work. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 12 AND AWG-KP 14 HIGHLIGHTS

    Throughout Tuesday, various drafting groups convened under the AWG-LCA to consider adaptation, mitigation, and finance, technology and capacity building. Contact groups under the AWG-KP addressed legal matters and Annex I emission reductions, while LULUCF and other issues were discussed in informal consultations. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE TWENTY-SECOND SESSION OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 9-11 NOVEMBER 2004

    The 22nd session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) met from 9-11 November 2004, at the Ashok Hotel, in New Delhi, India. Over 250 participants representing governments, UN agencies, IPCC Technical Support Units, as well as inter- and non-governmental organizations attended. During the meeting, delegates discussed: the scope, content and process for an IPCC Fourth Assessment Report (AR4) Synthesis Report; AR4 products; outreach; the IPCC Programme and Budget for 2005-8; and election procedures. Delegates also heard progress reports on: Working Group contributions to the AR4; the Special Report on Safeguarding the Ozone Layer and the Global Climate System; the Special Report on Carbon Dioxide Capture and Storage; the 2006 IPCC Guidelines for National Greenhouse Gas Inventories; and the work of the Task Group on Data and Scenario Support for Impact and Climate Analysis (TGICA). Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE UNFCCC WORKSHOP ON THE PREPARATION OF NATIONAL COMMUNICATIONS FROM NON-ANNEX I PARTIES: 26-30 APRIL 2004

    The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) workshop on the preparation of national communications from non-Annex I Parties was held from 26-30 April 2004, in Manila, the Philippines. The workshop brought together 88 participants representing 50 countries and 13 organizations, including non-governmental and intergovernmental organizations, and UN organizations, including UNDP and UNEP. The event was organized by the UNFCCC Secretariat and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) of the Philippines, in collaboration with UNDP Philippines and the Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research (APN). Funding for the workshop was provided by the Governments of Spain, Switzerland, the US and APN. Read More
  • SB 34 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning, the SBSTA opening plenary convened. The SBI opening plenary took place in the afternoon. In the morning and afternoon, the AWG-LCA workshop on mitigation by developing countries took place. Contact groups and informal consultations were also held under the AWG-LCA, SBI and SBSTA throughout the day. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE BONN CLIMATE CHANGE TALKS, 10-14 AUGUST 2009

    From 10-14 August 2009, the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (AWG-LCA) and the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP) held intersessional informal consultations in Bonn, Germany. Approximately 2,400 participants attended the meeting, which forms part of ongoing negotiations on long-term cooperation under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Kyoto Protocol. The two AWGs are scheduled to conclude their work by the fifteenth session of the UNFCCC Conference of the Parties (COP 15) and the fifth session of the Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (COP/MOP 5) to be held in Copenhagen, Denmark, in December 2009. For the AWG-LCA, the focus was on how to proceed with the revised negotiating text ( FCCC/AWGLCA/2009/INF.1 ), which reflects deliberations at AWG-LCA 6 in June. The text is nearly 200 pages long and covers the key elements of the Bali Action Plan (decision 1/CP.13), namely a shared vision for long-term cooperative action, mitigation, adaptation and finance, as well as technology and capacity building. After a week of consultations by five main informal groups and several sub-groups on mitigation, the AWG-LCA began to produce reading guides, tables, matrices and non-papers aimed at consolidating text and facilitating negotiations at the next meeting in Bangkok, Thailand. The various tools will be compiled in a new information document that the Chair intends to make available before Bangkok. The revised negotiating text, in turn, will remain largely as it was at the beginning of the informal consultations in Bonn (Bonn III). Under the AWG-KP, discussions continued on Annex I parties emission reductions beyond the first commitment period ending in 2012. In addition, parties resumed consideration of texts related to potential consequences and other issues in the AWG-KP s work programme ( FCCC/KP/AWG/2008/8 ), including land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF) and the flexibility mechanisms. Given that the informal session was not mandated to adopt conclusions, the AWG-KP s work at the informal session will be taken into account in documents that the AWG-KP Chair will prepare for Bangkok. Technical exercises related to Annex I parties emission reductions were widely seen as being among the most useful results of the session. Several participants stressed, however, the need to switch gears and make faster progress. Overall, at the close of Bonn III, delegates in both AWGs seemed increasingly aware of the fact that the clock is ticking, that only 114 days remained before Copenhagen, and that important progress will be needed when parties gather in Bangkok at the end of September in six weeks time. Read More
  • COP 13 AND COP/MOP 3 HIGHLIGHTS

    The thirteenth Conference of the Parties (COP 13) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and third Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (COP/MOP 3) opened on Monday morning. These were followed in the afternoon by the opening of the 27th sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI 27) and Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA 27) , as well as the resumed fourth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG 4) . Read More
  • SB 30 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning, the SBI plenary convened and the AWG-LCA met in an informal plenary . The SBSTA held a dialogue on research activities relevant to the Convention. Throughout the day, contact groups and informal consultations took place under the AWG-KP, SBI and SBSTA. Read More
  • SB 26 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Tuesday morning, SBSTA considered agenda items on Kyoto Protocol Article 2.3(a dverse effects of policies and measures) and emissions from fuel used for international aviation and maritime transport. Read More
  • THE TENTH SESSIONS OF THE FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES, 31 MAY – 11 JUNE 1999

    The tenth sessions of the subsidiary bodies of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) will meet from 31 May -11 June 1999 in Bonn, Germany. The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) will consider, inter alia, technology transfer, land use change and forestry and FCCC Article 6 (education, training and public awareness). SBI will discuss, inter alia, national communications and FCCC Articles 4.8 and 4.9 (adverse effects). SBSTA and SBI will jointly consider the mechanisms of the Kyoto Protocol and activities implemented jointly under the pilot phase. A joint working group is expected to consider procedures and mechanisms relating to compliance under the Protocol. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 5 AND AWG-KP 7 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Monday morning, the AWG-KP opening plenary continued. In the afternoon, the AWG-KP held an in-session workshop on potential consequences of tools, policies, measures and methodologies available to Annex I parties. In the morning and afternoon, the AWG-LCA convened contact groups on technology and finance , adaptation, and a shared vision. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE TIANJIN CLIMATE CHANGE TALKS, 4-9 OCTOBER 2010

    Delegates met in Tianjin, China from 4-9 October 2010 for the twelfth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (AWG-LCA 12) and the fourteen session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP 14). Over 2305 participants, including government delegates, observer and intergovernmental organizations and from the media, attended the meeting. This was the last meeting of the AWGs before the sixteenth session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) and the sixth session of the COP serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (COP/MOP) in Cancun, from 29 November 10 December 2010. The AWG-LCA considered the negotiating text circulated in August 2010 (FCCC/AWGLCA/2010/14). The text encompasses the key aspects of the Bali Action Plan (BAP) (decision 1/CP.13), namely a shared vision for long-term cooperative action, mitigation, adaptation, finance and technology, as well as capacity building. The meeting focused in particular on those issues that lend themselves to resolution in the time available, bearing in mind the need to achieve balance. Parties conducted their work by attempting to find areas of convergence on these issues and to streamline the text. Outputs comprise draft texts and notes from the drafting group facilitators and these will be incorporated into an information document to be prepared by the Secretariat. The AWG-LCA negotiation text will still remain the basis for negotiations in Cancun. The AWG-KP considered the Chair s draft proposal, presented to parties at AWG-KP 13 in August (FCCC/KP/AWG/2010/CRP.2). The document contains several draft decisions on, inter alia , Protocol amendments under Article 3.9 (Annex I parties further commitments), the flexibility mechanisms and land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF). Parties focused on narrowing down the options contained in the document and attempted to make progress on substantial issues. A revised Chair s proposal (FCCC/KP/AWG/2010/CRP.3) will be considered further in Cancun. Read More
  • BONN CLIMATE CHANGE TALKS

    The Bonn Climate Change Talks begin today and are scheduled to conclude on Friday, 11 June 2010. The meeting will include the 32nd sessions of the Subsidiary Bodies of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the tenth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the UNFCCC (AWG-LCA 10) and the twelfth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP 12). The main item on the AWG-KP s agenda focuses on further commitments by Annex I parties. The AWG-KP is expected to work based on documentation prepared by the Chair to facilitate negotiations (FCCC/KP/AWG/2010/6 and Adds.1-5). The AWG-LCA s agenda focuses on preparation of an outcome to be presented to the sixteenth Conference of the Parties (COP 16) and parties are expected to consider a new text by the Chair to facilitate negotiations (FCCC/AWGLCA/2010/6). The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) will consider issues including national communications and reporting, the financial mechanism and capacity building. The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) will consider, inter alia , methodological issues, technology transfer and the Nairobi work programme on impacts, vulnerability and adaptation to climate change. Read More
  • IPCC-24 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Friday, delegates met in plenary throughout the day and into the night to continue deliberations over the draft SPM. A consistent format was followed throughout deliberations, with the Co-Chairs first introducing the text of a paragraph and highlighting the reasons why some comments by countries and organizations were or were not incorporated. Delegates then discussed that paragraph line-by-line. Read More
  • Summary of the Bonn Climate Change Conference

    The Bonn Climate Change Conference under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) convened in Bonn, Germany, from 1-11 June 2015, and included the 42nd sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA). The ninth part of the second session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action (ADP 2-9) also took place. The meeting brought together nearly 4,000 participants, representing parties and observer states, international organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and media. Read More
  • FCCC COP-5 HIGHLIGHTS, TUESDAY, 2 NOVEMBER 1999

    Delegates to COP-5 convened in a morning Plenary to hear statements by observer States, IGOs, NGOs and UN bodies. In the afternoon and evening, delegates heard statements from 101 ministers and other heads of delegation in a high level segment. The contact group on mechanisms met for further discussions, and informal consultations were convened on bunker emissions, adverse effects and compliance. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE FORTIETH SESSION OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE, 27 OCTOBER – 1 NOVEMBER 2014

    The 40th session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC-40) met from 27 October 1 November 2014 at the Tivoli Conference Center in Copenhagen, Denmark, to consider and finalize the Synthesis Report (SYR), which integrates the findings from the three IPCC Working Group (WG) reports. Together, these comprise the IPCC’s Fifth Assessment Report (AR5). On 1 November, the Panel approved the SYR’s Summary for Policymakers (SPM) line by line, and adopted the longer SYR section by section. More than 800 authors and review editors from 85 countries participated in the preparation of AR5 over the past six years. Approximately 450 participants attended IPCC-40, including government representatives, authors, representatives of UN organizations, members of civil society, and academics. The SPM consists of an introduction and four sections. The section on Observed Changes and their Causes includes subsections on: observed changes in the climate system; causes of climate change; impacts of climate change; and extreme events. The section on Future Climate Changes, Risks and Impacts includes subsections on: key drivers of future climate; projected changes in climate systems; future risks and impacts caused by a changing climate; and climate change beyond 2100, irreversibility and abrupt changes. The section on Future Pathways for Adaptation, Mitigation and Sustainable Development includes subsections on: foundations of decision-making about climate change; climate change risks reduced by mitigation and adaptation; characteristics of adaptation pathways; and characteristics of mitigation pathways. The section on Adaptation and Mitigation includes subsections on: common enabling factors and constraints for adaptation and mitigation responses; response options for adaptation; response options for mitigation; policy approaches for adaptation and mitigation, technology and finance; and trade-offs, synergies and interactions with sustainable development. The longer report elaborates on these issues. In addition to approving the SPM and adopting the SYR, IPCC-40 addressed, inter alia : the IPCC programme and budget through 2017; future work of the IPCC; communication and outreach activities; a request for a technical report on climate change, food security and agriculture; implementation of the IPCC conflict of interest (COI) policy; and matters related to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and other international bodies. The Panel also heard a number of progress reports, including by the Task Force on Greenhouse Gas Inventories (TFI), on the IPCC’s carbon footprint, and from the three WGs. The third meeting of the Task Group on the Future Work of the IPCC (TGF) met immediately prior to IPCC-40 on 26 October to consider, among other things, the refined Options Paper prepared by the Task Group Co-Chairs, which draws on submissions from governments, scientists, observer organizations, Technical Support Units (TSUs) and the Secretariat. Read More
  • SB 34 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    Contact groups and informal consultations were held throughout the day under the AWG-LCA, AWG-KP, SBI and SBSTA. In the afternoon, the SBI and SBSTA Chairs organized a joint forum on the impact of implementation of response measures. Read More
  • BANGKOK CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE, 30 AUGUST-5 SEPTEMBER 2012

    The informal additional sessions of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA), Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP) and the Ad Hoc Working Group on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action (ADP) open today at the UN Conference Centre of the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific in Bangkok, Thailand, and will continue until Wednesday, 5 September 2012. The AWG-KP session will be used towards resolving outstanding issues to ensure the successful completion of the group s work in Doha, Qatar, in December 2012 by recommending an amendment to the Conference of the Parties (COP) serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (CMP) for adoption. This would allow a second commitment period under the Protocol to start immediately from 1 January 2013. The AWG-LCA will continue working on practical solutions to fulfill specific mandates from COP 17 in Durban. The focus will be on what substantive outcomes are needed to conclude each element in Doha, how the elements will be reflected in the final outcome of the AWG-LCA and whether additional work might be needed beyond COP 18 and if so, identifying concrete issues and whether those issues require technical work or political consideration. Parties are expected to initiate the textual basis for the Doha outcome of the AWG-LCA. Five workshops based on Decision 2/CP.17 (outcome of the work of the AWG-LCA) will also convene in Bangkok. Under the ADP, parties are expected to discuss their vision and aspirations for the ADP, the results of its work and how these results can be achieved. Parties will also discuss how to enhance ambition and the opportunities to bridge the gap, the role of means of implementation and how to strengthen international cooperative initiatives, as well as the elements that could frame the ADP s work. Parties will also discuss how they envisage giving effect to the Convention principles. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-8 HIGHLIGHTS

    Parties to COP-8 heard statements by UN agencies and intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations in a morning session. The high-level segment was inaugurated by a ‘lighting of the lamp’ ceremony by Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee of India. The first of three Ministerial Round Tables was held in the afternoon focusing on ‘Taking Stock.’ Delegates also continued deliberations on non-Annex I issues in a contact group that met throughout the day. Read More
  • COP 12 AND COP/MOP 2 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Wednesday, SBI met in the morning to discuss Annex I communications, the Adaptation Fund, capacity building under the Kyoto Protocol, Protocol Article 3.14 on adverse effects and response measures, amendment of the Protocol relating to compliance, the international transaction log, and privileges and immunities for members of the Protocol’s constituted bodies. The AWG convened in the afternoon to hear general statements and a summary of the previous day’s in-session workshop, and to discuss future commitments and the AWG’s work plan. In addition, contact groups and informal consultations took place throughout the day on issues such as the adaptation work programme, technology transfer, the financial mechanism, and response measures. Read More
  • UNFCCC SB 22 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Monday morning, delegates convened for an in-session SBSTA workshop on mitigation. In the afternoon, SBSTA reconvened to take up agenda items on the scientific, technical and socioeconomic aspects of both adaptation and mitigation. In the evening, SBI met to discuss adoption of its agenda. In addition, contact groups and informal meetings were held throughout the day. SBI contact groups met to discuss the internal review of the Secretariat’s activities, the programme budget for 2006-2007, arrangements for intergovernmental meetings, non-Annex I communications, and LDCs. SBSTA contact groups and informal meetings were held on various issues, including methodologies for adjustments for LULUCF, registry systems under the Kyoto Protocol, adaptation, research needs relating to the Convention, emissions from aviation and maritime transport, and a work programme on adaptation. Read More
  • REPORT OF THE MEETINGS OF THE SUBSIDIARY BODIES OF THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE:: 9-18 DECEMBER 1996

    The subsidiary bodies of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change met in Geneva from 9-18 December 1996. The fifth session of the Ad Hoc Group on the Berlin Mandate (AGBM-5) met from 9-13 December, the fourth session of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA-4) and the third session of the Ad Hoc Group on Article 13 (AG13-3) met from 16-18 December 1996. The fourth session of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI-4) met from 10-11 December 1996. Informal roundtables were convened on 9 December, to discuss proposals from Parties, and on 17 December, to discuss Activities Implemented Jointly (AIJ). Read More
  • SB 36 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning, the plenary of the ADP took place, and an in-session workshop was held under the AWG-LCA on a framework for various approaches. In the afternoon, an AWG-LCA in-session workshop took place on the new market-based mechanism. In the morning and afternoon, a number of contact groups and informal consultations took place under the SBI, SBSTA, AWG-KP and AWG-LCA. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE THIRD CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UNITED NATIONS FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE, 5 DECEMBER 1997

    The Committee of the Whole (COW) of the Third Conference of the Parties (COP-3) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) continued its ‘stock-taking’ Plenary in the morning. In the afternoon, the COP met in Plenary and discussed outstanding organizational and procedural issues. The COW’s ‘stock-taking’ Plenary reconvened in the evening. Read More
  • INC-11 HIGHLIGHTS: THURSDAY, 16 FEBRUARY 1995

    PLENARY In opening Thursday morning’s Plenary, the INC Chair reported that the Eastern European Group has nominated the Russian Federation and Hungary and the Asian Group has nominated India and Japan for positions on the COP Bureau. Japan then announced that it would make an additional US$100,000 contribution to... Read More
  • SB 28 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    On Thursday, the AWG-LCA and AWG-KP reconvened in plenary sessions in the afternoon and evening to complete their work. The plenary sessions followed meetings of contact groups and informal consultations aimed at finalizing texts on outstanding issues such as the mechanisms under the AWG-KP , as well as several items under the SBI and SBSTA. Read More
  • CLIMATE CHANGE CONVENTION COP-1 HIGHLIGHTS:: WEDNESDAY, 5 APRIL 1995

    MINISTERIAL SEGMENT Dr. Helmut Kohl, Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, urged delegates to remember the lessons of Berlin, noting that never again must ‘walls of enmity’ be erected between peoples, nations and States. He stated that the Rio Conference provided a clear signal of hope, but the... Read More
  • BONN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE

    On Wednesday morning, the ADP informal plenary convened. During the day, contact groups and informal consultations took place under the SBSTA and ADP. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE UNFCCC WORKSHOP ON TECHNOLOGY NEEDS ASSESSMENTS, 1-2 JUNE 2011

    The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Workshop on Technology Needs Assessments (TNAs) convened in Bonn, Germany, from 1-2 June 2011. The objective of the workshop was to: share good practices and lessons learned from non-Annex I parties experiences in conducting TNAs; identify specific needs and practical actions to assist parties in implementing their results; and discuss the roles of TNAs in the context of the implementation of the Technology Mechanism as established at COP 16 in Decision 1/CP.16 (the Cancun Agreements). Nearly 70 participants from governments, international organizations and civil society engaged in the two-day workshop, which operated under Chatham House Rules of non-attribution. Following a brief opening session providing background and discussing workshop expectations on Wednesday morning, 1 June, the participants addressed national perspectives on lessons learned and good practices in conducting TNAs in the second session. On Wednesday afternoon, the second session continued with international perspectives. The third session on Wednesday afternoon addressed implementing the results of TNAs, focusing on international and private sector perspectives. On Thursday morning, the third session continued with a panel discussion on experiences and lessons learned from supporting technology transfer activities. The fourth session on Thursday afternoon, on strategies and recommendations for the future of the TNA process, began with background information and continued with a panel discussion on the role of TNAs in enhanced action on technology development and transfer to support action on mitigation and adaptation. In the afternoon, the fourth session continued with breakout sessions on: the role of TNAs in enhanced action on technology development and transfer, including the possible role of TNAs in facilitating delivery of technological and financial support for mitigation and adaptation actions; preparing and implementing national mitigation and adaptation actions; and the Technology Mechanism. Late in the afternoon, the final session was convened to discuss ways forward. Read More
  • FIRST SESSION OF THE AD HOC WORKING GROUP ON LONG-TERM COOPERATIVE ACTION AND FIFTH SESSION OF THE AD HOC WORKING GROUP ON FURTHER COMMITMENTS FOR ANNEX I PARTIES UNDER THE KYOTO PROTOCOL, 31 MARCH – 4 APRIL 2008

    The first session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWGLCA 1) and the fifth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (AWG 5) are taking place from 31 March to 4 April 2008 in Bangkok, Thailand. The AWGLCA was established by the 13th Conference of the Parties (COP 13), held in Bali, Indonesia, in December 2007, as a follow up process to the Dialogue on long-term cooperative action to address climate change by enhancing implementation of the Convention. This new subsidiary body has been mandated to launch a comprehensive process to enable the full, effective and sustained implementation of the Convention through long-term cooperative action, now, up to and beyond 2012. The AWGLCA must complete its work by COP 15 in 2009. At its first meeting, the AWGLCA is expected to focus on developing its work programme covering, among other things, mitigation, adaptation, technology and finance. The AWG was set up by the first Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (COP/MOP 1 ) in Montreal, Canada, in late 2005 to consider Annex I parties commitments beyond the Protocol s first commitment period ending in 2012. At its fifth meeting, the AWG is expected to convene an in-session thematic workshop and initiate work on analyzing the means for Annex I parties to reach their emission reduction targets and identification of ways to enhance their effectiveness and contribution to sustainable development. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE UNFCCC/UNDP EXPERT MEETING ON METHODOLOGIES FOR TECHNOLOGY NEEDS ASSESSMENTS: 23-25 APRIL 2002

    The Expert Meeting on Methodologies for Technology Needs Assessments was held from 23-25 April 2002, at the office of the Korea Energy Management Corporation (KEMCO) in Yongin, Republic of Korea. The meeting was organized by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and hosted by the Government of the Republic of Korea. Approximately 60 representatives of governments, United Nations agencies and other intergovernmental and international organizations attended the meeting. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM MEETING OF THE AD HOC GROUP ON THE BERLIN MANDATE 6 AUGUST 1997

    The AGBM Chair held a morning briefing for observers on the outcome of negotiations in the non-groups. All non-groups considered revised draft texts on the second-to-last day of AGBM-7. The non-group on institutions and mechanisms met in the morning and was scheduled to reconvene in the evening. The non-group on policies and measures met in the morning and held small group consultations in the afternoon. The non-group on QELROs met in the afternoon. Read More
  • COP 12 AND COP/MOP 2 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Thursday, COP/MOP reconvened to finalize its agenda and to consider issues relating to the CDM, the Joint Implementation Supervisory Committee, the Compliance Committee, a proposal from Belarus to amend Annex B of the Protocol, and the Russian proposal on voluntary commitments. In addition, contact groups and informal consultations took place throughout the day on issues such as the Adaptation Fund, reducing emissions from deforestation in developing countries, issues under the AWG, capacity building under the UNFCCC and Protocol, the adaptation work programme, and technology transfer. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE BONN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE, 4-15 JUNE 2014

    The Bonn Climate Change Conference took place in Bonn, Germany, from 4-15 June 2014, and included the 40th sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA). The fifth meeting of the second session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action (ADP 2-5) also took place. The meeting brought together approximately 2790 participants, 1689 representing parties and observer states, 1068 from observer organizations, including non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and 37 media. The Bonn Climate Change Conference marked the first time in UNFCCC history that high-level ministerial events convened outside of the Conference of the Parties (COP) and the COP serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (CMP). Ministerials convened during the first two days of the session, including the High-Level Ministerial Roundtable under the Kyoto Protocol, which aimed to assess implementation of the Protocol and provide ministers with an opportunity to increase their quantified emission limitation and reduction commitments (QELRCs). The High-Level Ministerial Dialogue on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action aimed to raise pre-2020 ambition and provide momentum for negotiations on the 2015 agreement. During the session, SBI 40 and SBSTA 40 began quickly moving through the items, with many considered in informal consultations rather than contact groups. SBI 40 made good progress, according to many, on issues including Convention Article 6 (education, training and public awareness). SBSTA 40 achieved progress as characterized by many on agriculture, and research and systematic observation. Read More
  • TIANJIN CLIMATE CHANGE TALKS, 4-9 OCTOBER 2010

    From 4-9 October 2010, the 14th session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP 14) and the 12th session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA 12) will convene in Tianjin, China, as part of ongoing negotiations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Kyoto Protocol. The two AWGs are scheduled to report the outcomes of their work at the United Nations Climate Change Conference to be held in Cancun, Mexico from 29 November to 10 December 2010. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM MEETING OF THE AD HOC GROUP ON THE BERLIN MANDATE 6 AUGUST 1997

    The Chair of the Ad Hoc Group on the Berlin Mandate (AGBM) conducted an observer briefing in the morning. The non- group on quantified emission limitation and reduction objectives (QELROs) met in the morning, and the non-group on elements related to institutions and mechanisms met in the afternoon. The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) concluded its work in a morning session and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) concluded its work in the afternoon. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 7 AND AWG-KP 9 HIGHLIGHTS

    Throughout Tuesday, various contact groups and informal consultations were held to consider adaptation, mitigation, finance, technology and a shared vision under the AWG-LCA, as well as Annex I emission reductions and other issues under the AWG-KP. Read More
  • DOHA HIGHLIGHTS

    On Tuesday, delegates met for the opening sessions of the AWG-KP, AWG-LCA and the ADP. The SBI plenary was also resumed. Participants heard opening statements from negotiating groups and gave preliminary consideration to the various agenda items under these bodies. In addition, contact groups and informal consultations began on a range of issues across the various bodies. Read More
  • DOHA CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE, 26 NOVEMBER - 7 DECEMBER 2012

    The 2012 UN Climate Change Conference opens in Doha, Qatar, today at the Qatar National Convention Centre and will continue until 7 December. The Conference includes the 18th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 18) and the 8th session of the Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (CMP 8). Five subsidiary bodies will also convene: the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI), Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA), Ad Hoc Working Group on Annex I Parties Further Commitments under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP), Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA) and Ad Hoc Working Group on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action (ADP). Key issues include the adoption of amendments to the Kyoto Protocol for the second commitment period. Under the Convention, the AWG-LCA is scheduled to present its final outcome and terminate its work. The COP will also hear a report from the ADP concerning progress made during the first year of its mandate to develop a protocol, another legal instrument or an agreed outcome with legal force under the Convention applicable to all Parties by 2015 to enter into force no later than 2020. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE FOURTH UNFCCC CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES, 6 NOVEMBER 1998

    Delegates held regional group consultations in the morning. In the afternoon, the COP plenary considered: reports from the subsidiary bodies; possible decisions under Article 4.2(f); and statements from intergovernmental organizations. Contact groups met in the evening and over the weekend. Read More
  • LIMA HIGHLIGHTS

    Throughout the day, the joint COP/CMP high-level segment continued. In the afternoon, a ministerial dialogue on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action took place. During the morning and evening, the ADP contact group on item 3 focused on a draft COP decision on advancing the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action in two parallel sessions. Informal consultations and contact groups under the COP and CMP took place throughout the day. An informal stocktaking plenary convened by the COP/CMP President met in the evening. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MEETINGS OF THE FCCC SUBSIDARY BODIES, 30 OCTOBER 1997

    Delegates to the eighth session of the Ad Hoc Group on the Berlin Mandate (AGBM-8) met in Plenary in morning, afternoon and evening sessions. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE THIRD CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UNITED NATIONS FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE 6 - 7 DECEMBER 1997

    The Committee of the Whole (COW) of the Third Conference of the Parties (COP-3) to the Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) met in afternoon and evening sessions on Saturday. Delegates reviewed the revised text produced by informal negotiating groups and discussed outstanding issues. The Chair of the COW issued a non-paper (FCCC/CP/1997/CRP.2) on Sunday that reflected the current status of the negotiating text and set out the options for high-level input. Read More
  • SB 32 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning, the opening plenaries of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the UNFCCC (AWG-LCA) and the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP) took place. In the afternoon, the AWG-LCA opening plenary continued. Contact groups also convened on technology transfer under the SBI/SBSTA, non-Annex I national communications under the SBI and other issues under the AWG-KP. Read More
  • DOHA HIGHLIGHTS

    Throughout the day on Wednesday, the COP 18 and CMP 8 high-level segment took place. Various contact groups and informal consultations also convened under the COP, CMP, ADP, AWG-LCA and AWG-KP. In the evening, the COP President s informal stocktaking plenary was held. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-6 HIGHLIGHTS, FRIDAY, 17 NOVEMBER 2000

    Delegates convened in contact groups to discuss text on: ‘best practices’ in policies and measures; guidelines under Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information); land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); development and transfer of technologies; financial issues; capacity building; and the financial mechanism. The Joint Working Group on Compliance (JWG) also met to continue its work. In addition, negotiators met in closed ‘informal informal’ consultations and drafting group meetings to advance negotiations on issues such as mechanisms, compliance, development and transfer of technologies, adverse effects and LULUCF. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 7 AND AWG-KP 9 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Friday afternoon, the AWG-KP and AWG-LCA convened their respective stocktaking plenary sessions. Throughout the day, various contact groups and informal consultations were also held to consider technology, capacity building, mitigation and finance under the AWG-LCA, and potential consequences under the AWG-KP. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 3 AND AWG-KP 6 HIGHLIGHTS

    The third session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA 3) and the first part of the sixth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP 6) opened in Accra, Ghana, on Thursday morning, with a welcoming ceremony and the opening plenary of the AWG-KP . In the afternoon, delegates attended the AWG-LCA opening plenary, an in-session workshop on cooperative sectoral approaches, and a contact group on land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF) . Read More
  • DURBAN HIGHLIGHTS

    Delegates met for the opening sessions of the AWG-KP and AWG-LCA, and to resume their work under the SBI. Participants heard opening statements from negotiating groups and gave preliminary consideration to the various agenda items under these bodies. In addition, contact groups and informal consultations began on a range of issues across the various bodies. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE FIRST CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES FOR THE FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE:: 28 MARCH -7 APRIL 1995

    The first Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP-1) met in Berlin from 28 March - 7 April 1995. In this historic city that was once the symbol of the Cold War’s divisions between East and West, delegates from 117 Parties and 53 observer States found that although the Berlin Wall has fallen, the walls that divide the Parties to the Convention still remain. It took seemingly endless hours of negotiations and consultations before delegates with vastly different priorities and concerns came to agreement on what many believed to be the central issue before COP-1 - adequacy of commitments. The result is a mandate to begin a process toward appropriate action for the period beyond 2000, including the strengthening of the commitments of Annex I Parties in Article 4.2(a) and (b). Read More
  • AWG-LCA 11 AND AWG-KP 13 HIGHLIGHTS

    Delegates met in contact groups and informal meetings to continue their work. Under the AWG-LCA, there were meetings on shared vision, mitigation, adaptation, financing, technology, capacity building and the form of the outcome. There was also a joint meeting of the adaptation and finance drafting groups. Under the AWG-KP, meetings were held on Annex I emission reductions, LULUCF, mechanisms, potential consequences and methodological issues. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE EIGHTH CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 23 OCTOBER – 1 NOVEMBER 2002

    The eighth Conference of the Parties (COP-8) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the seventeenth sessions of the COP’s Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) were held at the Vigyan Bhawan Conference Centre in New Delhi, India, from 23 October to 1 November 2002. Over 4300 participants from 167 Parties, 3 observer States, 213 intergovernmental, non-governmental and other observer organizations, and 222 media outlets were in attendance. This was the first COP since November 2001, when delegates completed three years of negotiations on the operational details of the Kyoto Protocol and adopted the Marrakesh Accords to the Bonn Agreements. The meeting marked a new phase of negotiations focused on implementation of the Marrakesh Accords and UNFCCC issues. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE 35TH SESSION OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE, 6-9 June 2012

    The 35th session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) was held from 6-9 June 2012 in Geneva, Switzerland. The session was attended by more than two hundred participants, including representatives from governments, the United Nations, and intergovernmental and observer organizations. Discussions focused on the work resulting from the consideration of the InterAcademy Council (IAC) Review of the IPCC processes and procedures, namely those on: governance and management; procedures for the IPCC reports; and the communications strategy. In this respect, the Panel approved functions of the IPCC Secretariat and Technical Support Units (TSUs) and the Communications Strategy. Delegates also agreed to revisions to the Procedures for the Preparation, Review, Acceptance, Adoption, Approval and Publication of IPCC Reports, including on the role of observers in the preparation of assessment reports. These decisions conclude the Panel s consideration of the recommendations from the IAC Review. In addition, the Panel approved revisions to the Procedures for the Election of the IPCC Bureau and Any Task Force Bureau. Following a request from the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), IPCC-35 decided to complete the review of Chapter 4 of the IPCC Good Practice Guidance for Land Use, Land Use Change and Forestry by the end of 2013, so that it would be possible to apply the new methodologies from the beginning of the second commitment period under the Kyoto Protocol. Delegates also addressed issues such as implementation of the Conflict of Interest (COI) Policy, programme and budget, matters related to other international bodies, progress reports, and other matters. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-6 HIGHLIGHTS, TUESDAY, 21 NOVEMBER 2000

    Delegates convened in Plenary to hear high-level statements from Parties. Over 70 speakers, including four Vice Presidents, two Deputy Prime Ministers, and more than 60 Ministers, made presentations. Delegates also met for informal high-level Plenary meetings and in smaller negotiating groups to progress talks on the key outstanding issues. These discussions took place within the framework of four issue ‘clusters,’ including: capacity building, technology transfer, adverse effects and guidance to the GEF; the mechanisms; land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); and compliance, policies and measures, and accounting, reporting and review under Protocol Articles 5, 7 and 8. Read More
  • BONN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE

    In the morning, an ADP workshop on a practical approach to increasing pre-2020 ambition took place. In the afternoon, an ADP workshop on linkages was held, together with a workshop on results-based finance for the full implementation of activities referred to in Decision 1/CP.16, paragraph 70 (REDD+) and the first SBI in-session dialogue to advance implementation of the Doha work programme on Convention Article 6 (education, training and public awareness). During the day, informal consultations took place under the SBSTA and ADP, and on the SBI agenda. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE TWENTY-SECOND SESSIONS OF THE SUBSIDIARY BODIES OF THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 19-27 MAY 2005

    The twenty-second sessions of the Subsidiary Bodies (SB 22) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) took place from 19-27 May 2005, at the Maritim Hotel in Bonn, Germany. The sessions were attended by almost 1600 participants representing 156 Parties to the Convention, one observer State, and numerous UN agencies, intergovernmental organizations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Read More
  • SB 34 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    Contact groups and informal consultations were held throughout the day under the AWG-LCA, AWG-KP, SBI and SBSTA. In the morning and afternoon, the SBI and SBSTA Chairs organized a joint forum on the impact of implementation of response measures. In the afternoon, the incoming presidency of COP 17 and COP/MOP 7 continued open-ended informal consultations on parties expectations for Durban. Read More
  • SB 28 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    On Saturday, the AWG-KP convened a workshop on methodological issues . Delegates also met for an in-session workshop on modelling, scenarios and downscaling under the Nairobi Work Programme (NWP). Contact groups and informal consultations were held on a range of issues, including finance and technology transfer under the AWG-LCA, arrangements for intergovernmental meetings, capacity building, decision 1/CP.10 (Buenos Aires programme of work), review of the financial mechanism, non-Annex I communications, and reducing emissions from deforestation in developing countries . Read More
  • IPCC-24 HIGHLIGHTS

    The twenty-fourth session of the IPCC met for a second day on Tuesday. In the morning, delegates discussed further work on aerosols, election procedures, and emission scenarios. In the afternoon, delegates considered emission scenarios, outreach, and procedures for admitting observer organizations to the IPCC. The Financial Task Team met twice to continue discussions of the IPCC programme and budget for 2006-08, as did a contact group on election procedures. Read More
  • SB 30 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    The Bonn Climate Change Talks began on Monday morning with the opening plenaries of AWG-LCA 6 and SBI 30 . They were followed by opening plenaries of AWG-KP 8 and SBSTA 30 in the afternoon. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE BONN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE, 14-25 MAY 2012

    The Bonn Climate Change Conference took place from 14 to 25 May 2012 in Bonn, Germany. The conference comprised the 36th sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA). It also included the 15th session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (AWG-LCA), the 17th session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP) and the first session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action (ADP). Under the SBI, key issues discussed included loss and damage, national adaptation plans (NAPs), and reporting by Annex I and non-Annex I parties. The SBSTA focused on agriculture, research and systematic observation, and methodological guidance on REDD+ (reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation in developing countries, and the role of conservation, sustainable management of forests and enhancement of forest carbon stocks in developing countries). Technology and response measures were considered under both the SBI and SBSTA. Under the AWG-KP, the focus was on issues that need to be finalized to adopt a second commitment period under the Kyoto Protocol and for the AWG-KP to conclude its work at the eighth session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (CMP 8). These include: matters relating to quantified emission limitation or reduction objectives (QELROs) with a view to adopting these as amendments to Annex B to the Kyoto Protocol and carry-over of assigned amount units (AAUs). While discussions under the AWG-KP advanced understanding of these issues, many outstanding questions remain, including the length of the second commitment period under the Kyoto Protocol and carry-over of surplus units. Under the AWG-LCA, parties initially debated the agenda and whether it adequately reflected progress since the adoption of the Bali Action Plan at COP 13 in 2007. After agreement on the agenda, debates continued on which issues require consideration so that the AWG-LCA can finalize its work at COP 18 in Doha. Developed countries stressed significant progress and the various new institutions established in Cancun and Durban. They called for a focus on specific tasks mandated by Decision 2/CP.17 (Outcome of the work of the AWG-LCA). Developing countries identified the need to continue discussing issues, such as finance, technology, adaptation, capacity building and response measures in order to fulfill the mandate in the Bali Action Plan. Under the ADP, discussions centered on the agenda and election of officers. After nearly two weeks of discussions, the ADP plenary adopted the agenda and agreed on the election of officers during the final day of the conference. At the close of the Bonn Conference, many felt that the atmosphere had been tense, especially under the ADP. They expressed hope that this would not have a lasting impact, putting at risk efforts to rebuild trust in the process over the past two years since Copenhagen and the delicate balance of interests reflected in the Durban Package. Read More
  • THE THIRD CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UNITED NATIONS FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE, 1 - 10 DECEMBER 1997

    The Third Conference of the Parties (COP-3) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) will open on 1 December 1997 at the Kyoto International Conference Hall in Kyoto, Japan. Delegates will meet in Plenary, then in a Committee of the Whole (COW) to discuss the adoption of a protocol or another legal instrument. A high-level segment will be convened from 6 - 7 December to hear statements from ministers and other heads of delegation. The resumed eighth session of the Ad Hoc Group on the Berlin Mandate (AGBM-8) met on 30 November 1997. Delegates met informally to discuss the treatment of greenhouse gas sinks, and then in Plenary to conclude discussions on the AGBM report to COP-3. Delegates agreed that informal consultations on sinks would continue through COP-3. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE THIRD CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UNITED NATIONS FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE, 2 DECEMBER 1997

    Delegates to the Third Conference of the Parties (COP-3) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) met in negotiating groups under the Committee of Whole (COW). Delegates discussed quantified emission limitation and reduction objectives (QELROs), institutions and mechanisms and Article 4.1. Informal consultations were held on the treatment of carbon sinks. A number of delegations, as well as the Chair of the COW, held press briefings. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 3 AND AWG-KP 6 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Monday morning, delegates convened in a contact group on delivering on technology and finance, including consideration of institutional arrangements, as well as informal consultations on the 2009 work programme, under the Ad Hoc Working on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA), and in informal consultations on land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF) and other issues under the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP) . In the afternoon, LULUCF consultations continued, and AWG-LCA contact groups met on mitigation and its associated means of implementation, and on adaptation and its associated means of implementation . The AWG-KP contact group on flexible mechanisms convened in the afternoon and evening. Read More
  • AWGLCA 1 AND AWG 5 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Thursday, the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWGLCA) continued discussions on the work programme in an informal plenary and drafting group . In the morning, the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG) held an in-session workshop on means to reach emission reduction targets , focusing on greenhouse gases (GHGs), sectors and sources. In the afternoon, the AWG met in a contact group to exchange views on the in-session workshop. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE WORKSHOP ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE FIVE-YEAR PROGRAMME OF WORK ON IMPACTS, VULNERABILITY AND ADAPTATION: 17-19 OCTOBER 2005

    The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) informal workshop on the development of the five-year programme of work on impacts, vulnerability and adaptation was held from 17-19 October 2005, at the Wissenschaftszentrum in Bonn, Germany. More than fifty participants from Annex I and non-Annex I parties, as well as non-governmental organizations, were in attendance. The purpose of the workshop was to develop common ground and understanding on the possible content, structure, process for implementation and modalities of the programme of work. Read More
  • REPORT OF THE SECOND MEETING OF THE SUBSIDIARY BODIES OF THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 27 FEBRUARY - 4 MARCH 1996

    The UN Convention on Climate Change’s Subsidiary Body on Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) and Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) held their second meetings in Geneva from 27 February through 4 March 1996. The SBSTA considered scientific assessment and cooperation, including the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s (IPCC) Second Assessment Report (SAR), reporting by Annex I and non-Annex I Parties, activities implemented jointly (AIJ) and the Technical Advisory Panels (TAPs). The SBI considered in-depth reviews of national communications, matters related to the financial mechanism, financial and technical cooperation, transfer of technology, arrangements for the relocation of the Secretariat to Bonn and the Second Conference of the Parties. Read More
  • LIMA CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE, 1-12 DECEMBER 2014

    The UN Climate Change Conference opens today in Lima, Peru, and will continue until 12 December. The Conference includes the 20th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 20) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the 10th session of the Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (CMP 10). Three subsidiary bodies will also convene: the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI), the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA), and the Ad Hoc Working Group on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action (ADP). The conference will consider agenda items related, inter alia , to finance, mitigation, adaptation and technology. The COP will also hear a report from the ADP concerning progress made during the third year of its mandate to develop ‘a protocol, another legal instrument or an agreed outcome with legal force under the Convention applicable to all Parties’ by 2015 to enter into force no later than 2020. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MEETINGS OF THE FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES, THURSDAY, 10 JUNE 1999

    The Joint Working Group on compliance met in the morning to consider the draft report of the meeting. The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) met in the evening to adopt draft conclusions and decisions. Contact groups were convened on the budget and Annex I communications. Read More
  • SB 32 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning and afternoon, contact groups and informal consultations took place on issues including capacity building and decision 1/CP.10 (Buenos Aires programme of work) under the SBI, item 3 (preparation of an outcome to be presented to COP 16) under the AWG-LCA, Annex I emission reductions under the AWG-KP, and scientific, technical and socio-economic aspects of mitigation under the SBSTA. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE SEVENTH SESSION OF THE AD HOC GROUP ON THE BERLIN MANDATE 4 AUGUST 1997

    The Chair of the Ad Hoc Group on the Berlin Mandate (AGBM) held a morning briefing for observers on Thursday’s work in the non-group sessions. On Friday, the non-group on elements related to institutions, mechanisms and introductory and final clauses met in a morning session. The non-group on elements related to quantified emission limitation and reduction objectives (QELROs) met in an afternoon session. The non-group on elements related to advancing the implementation of existing commitments in Article 4.1 met throughout the day. The chairs of SBI informal groups reported on their progress in an afternoon session. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE SEVENTH CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 29 OCTOBER - 10 NOVEMBER 2001

    The Seventh Conference of the Parties (COP-7) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) was held in Marrakesh, Morocco, from 29 October - 10 November 2001. Over 4400 participants from 172 governments, 234 intergovernmental, non-governmental and other observer organizations, and 166 media outlets were in attendance. The meeting sought to finalize agreement on the operational details for commitments on reducing emissions of greenhouse gases under the 1997 Kyoto Protocol. It also sought agreement on actions to strengthen implementation of the UNFCCC. In attempting to achieve these goals, which were set out in the 1998 Buenos Aires Plan of Action (BAPA), COP-7 intended to bring to a close three years of negotiations, and complete tasks left unfinished at COP-6 Parts I and II held in The Hague and Bonn, respectively. The Bonn Agreements - a political declaration on outstanding issues that was adopted at COP-6 Part II in July 2001 - served as the basis for delegates striving to finish their work. Read More
  • UNFCCC WORKSHOPS ON SYNERGIES AND COOPERATION WITH OTHER CONVENTIONS: 2-4 JULY 2003

    The workshops on synergies and cooperation with other conventions were held from 2-4 July 2003, at the Meripuisto Hotel in Espoo, Finland. The workshops were organized by the Secretariat of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) workshop was convened in response to a request made to the SBI by the seventh session of the Conference of the Parties (COP), held in November 2001. The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) workshop was convened in response to a request made to the UNFCCC Secretariat by SBSTA-17, held in October-November 2002. Sixty-seven representatives of governments, intergovernmental organizations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) attended the workshops. Read More
  • DOHA HIGHLIGHTS

    On Monday morning, afternoon and evening, contact groups and informal consultations convened on a number of issues, including the agreed outcome of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA), item 3 under the Ad Hoc Working Group on Annex I Parties Further Commitments under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP) and workstreams 1 and 2 under the Ad Hoc Working Group on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action (ADP). On Monday evening, an informal stocktaking plenary by COP 18/CMP 8 President Abdullah bin Hamad Al-Attiyah (Qatar) also took place. Read More
  • SB 32 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    In the afternoon, a joint SBI/SBSTA session took place to bid farewell to UNFCCC Executive Secretary Yvo de Boer. In the evening, the closing plenaries of the SBI and SBSTA convened. Throughout the day, contact groups and informal consultations convened on issues including item 3 (preparation of an outcome to be presented to COP 16) under the AWG-LCA and Annex I emission reductions under the AWG-KP. Read More
  • COPENHAGEN HIGHLIGHTS

    On Thursday, the COP/MOP considered compliance, Kazakhstan s proposal to amend Protocol Annex B and proposals by parties to amend the Protocol. In addition, contact groups and informal consultations convened on a range of issues, including a shared vision, mitigation, adaptation, finance and technology under the AWG-LCA, Annex I emission reductions and other issues under the AWG-KP, and various topics under the SBSTA and SBI. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE 10TH SESSION OF WORKING GROUP II OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE (IPCC) AND THIRTY-EIGHTH SESSION OF THE IPCC, 25-29 MARCH 2014

    The 10th session of Working Group II (WGII) of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the 38th session of the IPCC were held from 25-29 March 2014 in Yokohama, Japan. The meeting was attended by more than 271 delegates representing 115 countries as well as representatives from the United Nations and intergovernmental and observer organizations, and drew worldwide media attention. During the five-day meeting, delegates met in plenary and informally to consider the WGII contribution to the IPCC Fifth Assessment Report (AR5). Participants were assisted by short informal presentations by the Coordinating Lead Authors (CLAs) on various sections and topics of the Summary for Policymakers (SPM). At the end of the meeting, WGII approved the SPM and accepted the underlying report including the Technical Summary and annexes. The SPM consists of an introduction plus three main parts. The introduction addresses the assessment and management of climate change risks. Section A addresses observed impacts, vulnerability and adaptation in a complex and changing world, including: observed impacts, vulnerability and exposure; adaptation experience; and the decision-making context. Section B addresses future risks and opportunities for adaptation, including: key risks across sectors and regions; sectoral risks and potential for adaptation; and regional key risks and potential for adaptation. Section C focuses on managing future risks and building resilience, and includes subsections on: principles for effective adaptation; and climate-resilient pathways and transformation. In addition, the SPM contains several background and assessment boxes as well as supplementary material, including a number of figures and tables. Following the conclusion of WGII, IPCC-38 convened to formally adopt the WGII contribution to the AR5. The approved SPM and its underlying report can be found on the IPCC website http://ipcc.ch . Read More
  • SB 30 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning, the AWG-LCA met in an informal plenary . Throughout the day, contact groups and informal consultations took place under the AWG-KP, SBI and SBSTA. In the afternoon and evening, the SBI and SBSTA convened in plenary sessions to conclude their work. Read More
  • IPCC-22 HIGHLIGHTS

    The 22nd session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) opened on Tuesday in New Delhi, India. In the morning, delegates heard opening addresses, approved the IPCC-21 draft report, and listened to Working Group (WG) progress reports on their contributions to AR4. In the afternoon, delegates heard updates on work on the Special Report on Safeguarding the Ozone Layer and the Global Climate System, on the Special Report on Carbon Dioxide Capture and Storage, on the 2006 IPCC Guidelines for National Greenhouse Gas Inventories, and of the Task Group on Data and Scenario Support for Impact and Climate Analysis (TGICA). They also began discussions on scope and content of, and the process for, an AR4 Synthesis Report (SYR). Contact groups on outreach and on the IPCC programme budget also met. Read More
  • UNFCCC SB 22 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Saturday morning, SBSTA convened for an in-session workshop on adaptation. Delegates heard presentations and engaged in discussions on the development of a five-year programme of work for SBSTA on impacts, vulnerability and adaptation to climate change. Numerous contact groups and informal consultations also took place. Under the SBI’s agenda, groups met on the internal review of the Secretariat’s activities, the programme budget for the biennium 2006-2007, arrangements for intergovernmental meetings, the Special Climate Change Fund (SCCF), and the least developed countries (LDCs). SBSTA contact groups and informal meetings convened on various issues, including hydrofluorocarbons and perfluorocarbons, technology transfer, adjustments for LULUCF, and research needs relating to the Convention. Read More
  • LIMA HIGHLIGHTS

    On Monday, 1 December, the opening ceremony of the UN Climate Change Conference was held in Lima, Peru, followed by the opening plenaries of COP 20, CMP 10 and the 41st sessions of the SBI and SBSTA. The COP and CMP adopted their agendas and organization of work, followed by opening statements. The SBI and SBSTA adopted their agendas and organization of work, and opened all of their agenda items addressing, inter alia : adaptation; mitigation; response measures; loss and damage; means of implementation (MOI), including finance, technology transfer and capacity building; market and non-market-based mechanisms; and reporting by parties. Contact groups and informal consultations convened in the afternoon under SBSTA on a number of issues. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM UNFCCC SB-16, WEDNESDAY, 5 JUNE 2002

    The Sixteenth Sessions of the UNFCCC Subsidiary Bodies (SB-16) opened on Wednesday, 5 June, in Bonn, Germany. The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) began with introductory remarks and a presentation by the new Chair of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). Participants then addressed various agenda items, including organizational matters, the IPCC Third Assessment Report (TAR), and methodological issues, including guidelines on reporting and review of Annex I Parties’ greenhouse gas inventories, guidelines under Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information), and the uniform reporting format for activities implemented jointly (AIJ). In the evening, delegates met in contact groups to discuss Articles 5, 7 and 8 and AIJ. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES, 31 MAY 1999

    Delegates to the tenth session of the FCCC subsidiary bodies discussed compliance under the Kyoto Protocol during informal consultations and attended a briefing on the Technical Workshop on the Protocol Mechanisms. The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) discussed, inter alia: cooperation with international organizations; education, training and public awareness; and research and systematic observation. The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) considered non-Annex I communications. Read More
  • SB 32 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning, the SBSTA plenary convened. Throughout the day, contact groups and informal consultations were held on issues including item 3 (preparation of an outcome to be presented to COP 16) under the AWG-LCA and Annex I emission reductions, legal matters and other issues under the AWG-KP. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 11 AND AWG-KP 13 HIGHLIGHTS

    The AWG-KP concluded its in-session workshop on the scale of Annex I parties emissions reductions on Tuesday morning. It subsequently held discussions in contact groups on Annex I emission reductions, other issues such as LULUCF, and legal matters. The AWG-LCA resumed work in its main contact group, which agreed on the organization of work for the rest of the week. Delegates then split into closed drafting groups that met late morning and throughout the afternoon. Three groups convened on Tuesday, focused on: mitigation; adaptation; and finance, technology and capacity building. The groups started discussions on the Chair s revised text (FCCC/AWGLCA/2010/8). Read More
  • 10TH SESSION OF WORKING GROUP I OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 29 JANUARY – 1 FEBRUARY 2007

    The Tenth Session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Working Group I (WGI) took place at UNESCO Headquarters, Paris, from 29 January to 1 February 2007. The meeting was attended by 311 participants, including scientists and representatives from governments, UN agencies, and non-governmental organizations. The meeting resulted in the acceptance of the WGI contribution to the IPCC Fourth Assessment Report (AR4), titled Climate Change 2007: the Physical Science Basis, including approval of the Summary for Policy Makers (SPM) and acceptance of the underlying report and Technical Summary. More than 350 members of the media were present for the release of the SPM on Friday, 2 February 2007. The SPM finds that there is more than a 90 percent probability that human action has contributed towards recent climate change, and contains a series of projections for future impacts, including on temperatures, sea level rise, and extreme weather events. Read More
  • GENEVA HIGHLIGHTS, Sunday, 8 February 2015

    On Sunday morning, the ADP opening plenary took place. In the morning and afternoon, the ADP contact group on item 3 (implementation of all the elements of Decision 1/CP.17) convened. Read More
  • FOURTH SESSIONS OF THE AD HOC WORKING GROUP ON FURTHER COMMITMENTS FOR ANNEX I PARTIES UNDER THE KYOTO PROTOCOL AND CONVENTION DIALOGUE: 27-31 AUGUST 2007

    The fourth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (AWG 4) and the fourth workshop under the Dialogue on long-term cooperative action to address climate change by enhancing implementation of the Convention (Convention Dialogue) took place from 27-31 August 2007, in Vienna, Austria. Approximately 900 participants attended the meeting, representing governments, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations and the media. The AWG and Convention Dialogue were established by decisions taken during the eleventh Conference of the Parties (COP 11) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the first Conference of the Parties serving as a Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (COP/MOP 1) in Montreal in late 2005. At those meetings, delegates discussed a range of issues relevant for a framework for the post-2012 period (when the Kyoto Protocol’s first commitment period ends) and long-term cooperative action on climate change. The fourth Convention Dialogue workshop focused on bringing together ideas from the previous workshops and addressing overarching and cross-cutting issues, including financing. The workshop was generally perceived as useful and constructive, with delegates elaborating on building blocks for long-term cooperative action on climate change and next steps to take the process forward. After this fourth and final workshop, the co-facilitators will give their report on the entire workshop series to COP 13 in December 2007. The fourth session of the AWG focused on the analysis of mitigation potentials and the identification of possible ranges of emission reductions for Annex I parties. After lengthy informal consultations, the AWG adopted conclusions referring, among other things, to some of the key findings by Working Group III of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), including that global greenhouse gas emissions need to peak in the next ten to fifteen years and be reduced well below half of 2000 levels by the middle of the 21st century in order to stabilize their concentrations in the atmosphere at the lowest levels assessed by the IPCC to date in its scenarios. The AWG’s conclusions also recognize that to achieve the lowest stabilization level, Annex I parties as a group would be required to reduce emissions by a range of 25-40% below 1990 levels by 2020. The Vienna meeting was generally seen as a successful step towards constructive negotiations on the post-2012 framework at COP 13 and COP/MOP 3, widely anticipated to be some of the key meetings in the UNFCCC process. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-6 PART II HIGHLIGHTS, WEDNESDAY, 18 JULY 2001

    Delegates to the resumed Sixth Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC met in negotiating groups in the morning, afternoon and evening to continue their discussions on: financial issues; mechanisms; land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); and compliance. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-8 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Saturday, 26 October and Monday, 28 October, Parties to UNFCCC’s COP-8 met in contact groups to continue their work. On Saturday, Parties considered: Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information); registries; research and systematic observation (R&SO); land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF) under the CDM; policies and measures (P&Ms); and guidelines on non-Annex I national communications. On Monday, Parties met to discuss: Articles 5, 7 and 8; LULUCF under the CDM; P&Ms; UNFCCC Article 6 (education, training and public awareness); non-Annex I national communications; the financial mechanism; and R&SO. Several formal contact groups agreed on draft SBSTA conclusions, to be adopted in plenary sessions on Tuesday. A number of informal contact groups were also convened throughout the two days. Read More
  • AWG-LCA AND AWG-KP highlights

    The intersessional informal consultations of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP) and the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA) began on Monday. In the morning, both AWGs held their opening meetings. In the afternoon, informal groups met to consider technology and capacity building, Annex I parties emission reductions and the flexibility mechanisms. Read More
  • Bonn Climate Change Conference

    The Bonn Climate Change Conference continued on Tuesday, 2 June. ADP negotiating groups took up the first reading of the sections on technology and finance in the Geneva negotiating text in the morning, and transparency and capacity building in the afternoon. Informal facilitated discussions on technology, finance, transparency and capacity building were held in the afternoon and evening. Read More
  • CLIMATE CHANGE CONVENTION COP-1 HIGHLIGHTS: MONDAY, 3 APRIL 1995

    PLENARY Monday morning’s Plenary session heard formal statements and a progress report from the Committee of the Whole and addressed certain organizational matters. Klaus Topfer, Chair of the UN Commission on Sustainable Development, said that it is the mandate of the CSD to lead governments and international organizations on... Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE 29TH SESSION OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE, 31 AUGUST – 4 SEPTEMBER 2008

    The 29th session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) was held from 31 August 4 September 2008 in Geneva, Switzerland, and was attended by more than 300 participants. During the meeting, which commemorated the IPCC s 20th anniversary , the Panel elected the new IPCC Bureau and the Bureau of the Task Force on National Greenhouse Gas Inventories (TFB) and reelected Rajendra Pachauri as the IPCC Chair. The result of Bureau elections left delegates satisfied although some felt frustrated with the lack of clarity in the Rules of Procedure . The Panel also continued its discussions on the future of the IPCC , agreed to create a scholarship for young climate change scientists from developing countries with the funds from the Nobel Prize and asked the Bureau to consider a scoping meeting on disaster risk reduction. Read More
  • SIXTH CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE, 13-24 NOVEMBER 2000

    The Sixth Conference of the Parties (COP-6) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the resumed thirteenth sessions of the UNFCCC’s subsidiary bodies begin today in The Hague, the Netherlands. At least 6,000 participants are expected to attend, including ministers and high-level officials from approximately 160 governments. The meeting aims to set the operational details for commitments on reducing emissions of greenhouse gases under the 1997 Kyoto Protocol. Delegates will also seek to reach agreement on actions to strengthen implementation of the UNFCCC itself. The outcome of COP-6 is seen as crucial in furthering implementation of the UNFCCC and influencing ratification and entry into force of the Protocol. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE BONN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE, 29 APRIL – 3 MAY 2013

    The second session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action (ADP 2) met in Bonn, Germany, from 29 April to 3 May 2013. Approximately 600 government delegates and 200 observers participated in the session. ADP 2 was structured around workshops and roundtable discussions, covering the ADP s two workstreams on the 2015 agreement (Workstream 1) and pre-2020 ambition (Workstream 2). Many felt this format was helpful in moving the ADP discussions forward. Several delegates noted, however, that the ADP needs to become more focused and interactive in future sessions. At the end of the week, ADP 2 suspended its session with a view to resuming it in the context of the next Bonn Climate Change Conference from 3-14 June 2013. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM FCCC SB-12, THURSDAY, 15 JUNE 2000

    The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) met in the afternoon to adopt draft conclusions relating to: guidelines under Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information); good practice guidance and uncertainty management in national greenhouse gas inventories; development and transfer of technologies; and land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF). The Joint Working Group on Compliance (JWG) adopted the report on its work during SB-12. Contact groups met throughout the day to conclude discussions on text relating to: mechanisms; Protocol Articles 5,7 and 8; LULUCF; and adverse effects. Informal consultations were held on capacity building and policies and measures. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 7 AND AWG-KP 9 HIGHLIGHTS

    Throughout the day, informal consultations took place under the AWG-LCA on issues including a shared vision for long-term cooperative action, adaptation, mitigation, finance, technology and capacity building. Under the AWG-KP, contact groups and informal consultations convened on Annex I emission reductions, other issues and potential consequences. Read More
  • UNFCCC SB 22 HIGHLIGHTS

    The twenty-second sessions of the Subsidiary Bodies (SB-22) of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) opened in Bonn, Germany on Thursday, 19 May, with meetings of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA). In the morning, SBSTA adopted its agenda and organization of work and addressed several methodological issues. In the afternoon, delegates discussed cooperation with relevant international organizations, the development and transfer of technologies, policies and measures among Annex I Parties, research needs relating to the UNFCCC, and implementation of Protocol Article 2.3 (adverse effects of policies and measures). In the evening, two contact groups convened. Read More
  • DURBAN HIGHLIGHTS

    The United Nations Climate Change Conference in Durban, South Africa, opened on Monday morning, 28 November. Following a welcoming ceremony attended by South African President Jacob Zuma and other high-level dignitaries, delegates gathered for the opening plenary meetings of the COP, COP/MOP, SBI and SBSTA. During these opening plenaries, parties gave initial consideration to the various agenda items, referring many issues to informal groups for further consideration. Read More
  • UNFCCC SB-20 HIGHLIGHTS

    The twentieth sessions of the Subsidiary Bodies (SB-20) opened on Wednesday, 16 June in Bonn, Germany. The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) and the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) held their opening sessions in the morning, adopting their respective agendas and addressing numerous issues. Parties continued deliberations in SBI and SBSTA meetings in the afternoon. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 12 AND AWG-KP 14 HIGHLIGHTS

    The Tianjin Climate Change Talks opened on Monday morning with a welcoming ceremony. In the morning, the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA) opening plenary took place, followed by the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP) opening plenary. In the afternoon, drafting groups convened under the AWG-LCA to consider shared vision, adaptation, and finance, technology and capacity building. Contact groups on Annex I emission reductions and other issues convened under the AWG-KP. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-8 HIGHLIGHTS

    Parties to the UNFCCC’s COP-8 met in two final high-level Round Tables, hearing statements from Ministers and heads of delegation on ‘Climate Change and Sustainable Development’ and ‘Wrap-Up.’ In the morning, delegates convened in a contact group on non-Annex I issues, and in the afternoon in a high-level contact group, to discuss the improved guidelines for the preparation of non-Annex I national communications. In the evening, Parties met briefly in the SBI to consider organizational matters, and began considering non-Annex I national communications, adjourning without completing their work. Informal consultations on the Delhi Declaration also took place, continuing late into the night. Read More
  • THIRD SESSION OF THE AD HOC WORKING GROUP ON LONG-TERM COOPERATIVE ACTION AND SIXTH SESSION OF THE AD HOC WORKING GROUP ON FURTHER COMMITMENTS FOR ANNEX I PARTIES UNDER THE KYOTO PROTOCOL, 21-27 AUGUST 2008

    The third session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA 3) and the first part of the sixth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (AWG-KP 6, Part I) are taking place from 21-27 August 2008 in Accra, Ghana. These meetings are part of ongoing discussions to enhance international cooperation on climate change, including for the period after 2012, when the Kyoto Protocol s first commitment period expires. Read More
  • COP 14 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Tuesday, the SBI and SBSTA resumed and concluded initial consideration of their respective agendas. In the afternoon, the AWG-LCA convened a workshop on a shared vision for long-term cooperative action. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MEETINGs of the FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES 28 JULY 1997

    The sixth session of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) discussed the division of labor between SBSTA and the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and methodological issues. SBI began consideration of the Programme Budget for 1998-99. The Ad Hoc Group on Article 13 discussed a compilation text on functions and procedures for any multilateral consultative mechanism (MCP). Informal groups met to hear Secretariat presentations on methodological issues and the Programme Budget. Read More
  • DOHA HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning, the AWG-KP held its closing plenary. Throughout the day on Thursday, the COP 18 and CMP 8 high-level segment took place. Various contact groups and informal consultations also convened under the COP, CMP, ADP, AWG-LCA and AWG-KP. In the evening, the COP President s INFORMAL STOCKTAKING PLENARY WAS HELD. Read More
  • REPORT OF THE SIXTH SESSION OF THE AD HOC GROUP ON THE BERLIN MANDATE: 3-7 MARCH 1997

    The sixth session of the Ad Hoc Group on the Berlin Mandate (AGBM-6) of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change met from 3-7 March 1997 in Bonn, Germany. AGBM-6 focused its deliberations on the Framework Compilation, which incorporated the textual proposal from Parties as well as other proposals for elements of a protocol or other legal instrument. AGBM-6 also convened informal roundtables on new proposals from Parties and differentiation, as well as ‘non- groups’ to exchange views and merge different proposals. Read More
  • INC-11 HIGHLIGHTS: MONDAY, 6 FEBRUARY 1995

    PLENARY INC Chair Rau’l Estrada-Oyuela opened INC-11 by noting a sense of satisfaction that 118 States and the EEC have ratified the Convention. He said that one of the most important tasks of this session is the review of the first 15 national reports submitted by Annex I developed... Read More
  • REPORT OF THE AD HOC GROUP ON THE BERLIN MANDATE: 21 - 25 AUGUST 1995

    The first Conference of the Parties (COP 1), held in Berlin from 28 March to 7 April 1995, established an open-ended ‘Ad Hoc Group on the Berlin Mandate’ (AGBM) through its decision FCCC/CP/1995/7/Add.1/Decision 1/CP.1, also referred to as the ‘Berlin Mandate.’ In the Berlin Mandate (BM), the COP 1 agreed to begin a process to enable it to take appropriate action for the period beyond 2000, including the strengthening of commitments of Annex I Parties in Article 4.2(a) and (b) of the Convention, through the adoption of a protocol or another legal instrument. The priority aim of the BM is the strengthening of commitments in Article 4.2(a) and (b) of the Convention for Annex I Parties, both to elaborate policies and measures, and to set quantified limitation and reduction objectives within specified time frames such as 2005, 2010 and 2020 for anthropogenic emissions by sources and removals by sinks of greenhouse gases not controlled by the Montreal Protocol. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE ELEVENTH SESSION OF THE INC FOR A FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE:: 6-17 FEBRUARY 1995

    The eleventh session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee for a Framework Convention on Climate Change (INC/FCCC) met from 6-17 February 1995 at UN Headquarters in New York. This final meeting of the INC was supposed to complete the preparations for the first Conference of the Parties in Berlin from 28 March - 7 April 1995. Read More
  • COP 13 AND COP/MOP 3 HIGHLIGHTS

    Delegates met in contact groups and informal consultations throughout Tuesday to conclude work under the SBI and SBSTA . On Tuesday afternoon and evening, the SBSTA and SBI convened, concluding their work early on Wednesday morning. Both SBI and SBSTA adopted conclusions as well as various draft decisions that will be forwarded to the COP and COP/MOP. The AWG also met, although it was not able to conclude its work, and will convene for a final plenary later in the week. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MEETINGS OF THE FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES, 10 JUNE 1998

    The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technical Advice (SBSTA) held stocktaking Plenary sessions in the morning. SBSTA also discussed education and public awareness. The Ad Hoc Group on Article 13 (AG13) heard a progress report from its Chair. Contact groups were convened throughout the day to consider outstanding issues. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE BANGKOK CLIMATE TALKS, 3-8 APRIL 2011

    The sixteenth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP 16), the fourteenth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-Term Cooperative Action (AWG-LCA 14), and three pre-sessional workshops convened in Bangkok, Thailand, from 3-8 April 2011. Over 2000 participants from governments, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations, academia, the private sector and the media attended the meetings. This marked the first round of negotiations on climate change following the sixteenth Conference of the Parties (COP 16), held in Cancun, Mexico in November December 2010. Delegates set out to adopt the agenda and organization of work for 2011 to enable the Ad Hoc Working Groups (AWGs) to achieve their mandates in the lead up to COP 17, to be held in December 2011 in Durban, South Africa. On Sunday, 3 April, a pre-sessional workshop on assumptions and conditions related to the attainment of quantified economy-wide emission reduction targets by developed country parties convened to discuss presentations and submissions by parties. On Monday, 4 April, a pre-sessional workshop on mitigation actions submitted by developing country parties, underlying assumptions, and any support needed for implementation of these actions discussed presentations and submissions by parties. The expert workshop on the Technology Mechanism took place from 4-5 April and focused on means of operationalizing the institutions of the Technology Mechanism, including the Technology Executive Committee (TEC) and the Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN). Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-6 PART II HIGHLIGHTS, TUESDAY, 17 JULY 2001

    Delegates to the resumed Sixth Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC met in negotiating groups in the morning, afternoon and evening to discuss: compliance; mechanisms; financial issues; and land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF). Read More
  • MEETINGS OF THE SUBSIDIARY BODIES TO THE UNITED NATIONS FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE, 28 JULY - 5 AUGUST 1997

    The sixth sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI-6) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA-6) and the fifth session of the Ad Hoc Group on Article 13 (AG13-5) will begin on Monday, 28 July 1997 at the Hotel Maritim in Bonn, Germany. The seventh session of the Ad Hoc Group on the Berlin Mandate (AGBM-7) will begin on Thursday, 31 July. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MEETINGS OF THE FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES, 29 OCTOBER 1997

    Delegates to the eighth session of the Ad Hoc Group on the Berlin Mandate (AGBM-8) met in non-group sessions on institutions and mechanisms and quantified emissions limitation and reduction objectives (QELROs). The QELROs non-group also met in the evening. The seventh session of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI-7) held its final meeting and considered outstanding agenda items and the report of the session. An NGO briefing was held in the morning. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-8 HIGHLIGHTS

    Delegates to the Eighth Conference of the Parties (COP-8) to the UNFCCC met in three sessions of the SBI and two sessions of the SBSTA. The SBI addressed: Annex I national communications; the financial mechanism; capacity-building; a request from a group of countries of Central Asia and the Caucasus, Albania and the Republic of Moldova (CACAM) regarding their status under the UNFCCC; administrative and financial matters; a proposal by Croatia on land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); and administrative and financial matters. The SBSTA considered: methodological issues; issues relating to hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and perfluorocarbons (PFCs); research and systematic observation (R&SO); the IPCC Third Assessment Report (TAR); and ‘good practices’ in policies and measures (P&Ms). Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE SIXTH SESSION OF THE AD HOC GROUP ON THE BERLIN MANDATE: TUESDAY, 4 MARCH 1997

    Delegates to the sixth session of the Ad Hoc Group on the Berlin Mandate (AGBM-6) began consideration of elements related to strengthening commitments in Article 4.2 (a) and (b) and focused specifically on policies and measures (P&Ms). AGBM also convened a ‘non-group meeting’ on elements related to advancing the implementation of existing commitments in Article 4.1. Read More
  • Bonn Climate Change Conference

    The Bonn Climate Change Conference continued on Wednesday, 10 June. Facilitated groups under the ADP convened on: workstream 2 (pre-2020 ambition), general/objective, and implementation and compliance in the morning; mitigation and finance in the afternoon; and procedural and institutional provisions, and workstream 2 in the evening. Read More
  • COP 13 AND COP/MOP 3 HIGHLIGHTS

    The SBI and SBSTA convened in plenary sessions throughout the day. SBSTA took up agenda items on reducing emissions from deforestation in developing countries , the Nairobi work programme , research and systematic observation , the IPCC’s Fourth Assessment Report (AR4) , and methodological issues . SBI considered organizational matters , education, training and public awareness, administrative, financial and institutional matters , national communications , Convention Article 4.8 and 4.9 (adverse effects), capacity building, the Adaptation Fund , and technology transfer . Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE THIRD SESSION OF THE AD HOC WORKING GROUP UNDER THE CONVENTION AND SIXTH SESSION (PART ONE) OF THE AD HOC WORKING GROUP UNDER THE KYOTO PROTOCOL, 21-27 AUGUST 2008

    Delegates convened in Accra, Ghana, from 21-27 August 2008 for the third session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action (AWG-LCA 3) and the first part of the sixth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (AWG-KP 6) . The climate talks in Accra were part of an ongoing series of meetings leading up to Copenhagen in December 2009 - the deadline for an agreement on a post-2012 framework. Approximately 1600 participants, representing governments, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations, academia and the private sector, attended the meetings. The AWG-LCA was established in 2007 at the 13th Conference of the Parties (COP 13) , in Bali, Indonesia, and is mandated to launch a comprehensive process to enable the full, effective and sustained implementation of the Convention through long-term cooperative action up to and beyond 2012. The AWG-LCA, which was set up as a follow up to the Dialogue on long-term cooperative action to address climate change by enhancing implementation of the Convention, must complete its work by COP 15 in Copenhagen in 2009. The main focus of AWG-LCA 3 in Accra was to continue to exchange ideas and clarify key elements of the Bali Action Plan (decision 1/CP.13), including a shared vision for long-term cooperative action, mitigation, adaptation, technology and finance. Two in-session workshops were held on: cooperative sectoral approaches and sector-specific actions, and policy approaches; and on policy incentives on issues relating to reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation in developing countries (REDD), and the role of conservation, sustainable management of forests and enhancement of forest carbon stocks in developing countries. The AWG-KP, which was established in 2005 to consider Annex I parties commitments under the Protocol after 2012, focused on the means for Annex I countries to reach emission reduction targets, with delegates addressing the flexible mechanisms and land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF) . Parties also are to consider an agenda item on other issues comprising greenhouse gases, sectors and source categories; approaches targeting sectoral emissions; methodological issues; and spillover effects. The Accra climate change talks resulted in the adoption of conclusions on long-term cooperative action and on the 2009 work programme under the AWG-LCA . Parties also adopted conclusions on: spillover effects; LULUCF; the flexible mechanisms; methodological issues; greenhouse gases, sectors and source categories; and means to reach emission reduction targets under the AWG-KP. Parties agreed to compile ideas and proposals on the elements contained in paragraph 1 of the Bali Action Plan for discussion at COP 14 in December 2008 in Poznan, Poland. Read More
  • UNFCCC SB-20 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Friday, delegates to SB-20 met in numerous contact groups and a SBSTA in-session workshop. Contact groups considered UNFCCC Article 6 (education, training and public awareness), arrangements for intergovernmental meetings, capacity building, implementation of decision 5/CP.7 (implementation of UNFCCC Article 4.8 and 4.9 on adverse effects), technology transfer, and good practice guidance (GPG) on LULUCF. The in-session workshop heard presentations on scientific, technical and socioeconomic aspects of impacts of, and vulnerability and adaptation to, climate change. Read More
  • SB 30 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning, the AWG-LCA met in an informal plenary . Throughout the day, various contact groups and informal consultations took place under the AWG-KP, SBI and SBSTA. Read More
  • DURBAN HIGHLIGHTS

    On Wednesday, ministers and their representatives addressed delegates in a joint high-level segment held throughout the day. In the morning a new amalgamation text was presented to the AWG-LCA contact group. Contact groups and informal consultations met throughout the day and into the night on several issues, including: Annex I emissions reductions, Kyoto Protocol amendments, the CDM, the Adaptation Fund, finance, response measures, sectoral approaches, market and non-market approaches, adaptation, technology transfer and the Review. Read More
  • BONN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE

    The opening plenary of ADP 2-6 took place in the morning and afternoon. The contact group on ADP item 3 was held in the afternoon, addressing workstream 2 (pre-2020 ambition). In the evening, the UNFCCC Secretariat held an information event on the UN Climate Summit, which took place on 23 September in New York, US. Read More
  • COP 11 AND COP/MOP 1 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Monday, delegates convened in contact groups and informal consultations on numerous issues, including Protocol Article 3.9 (future commitments), the financial mechanism, the CDM Executive Board’s report, joint implementation, technology transfer, deforestation in developing countries, capacity building, compliance, adaptation, mitigation, privileges and immunities for those serving on bodies established under the Kyoto Protocol, implications of the CDM for other environmental treaties, emissions from aviation and maritime transport, and the determination of a quantified emission reduction commitment for Belarus. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-6 HIGHLIGHTS, WEDNESDAY, 22 NOVEMBER 2000

    Delegates convened in Plenary to hear statements from 34 Parties, thus completing the high-level segment that began on Tuesday. Senior government representatives also met in informal high-level Plenary sessions and closed informal consultations to advance negotiations on key outstanding issues. These negotiations focused on the following four ‘clusters’ or ‘boxes’ of key issues identified by COP-6 President Pronk: (a) capacity building, technology transfer, adverse effects and guidance to the GEF; (b) the mechanisms; (c) land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); and (d) policies and measures (P&Ms), compliance, and accounting, reporting and review under Protocol Articles 5, 7 and 8. Read More
  • COPENHAGEN HIGHLIGHTS

    On Wednesday, the COP and COP/MOP held plenary sessions. In addition, various contact groups and informal consultations convened on a range of issues, including a shared vision, mitigation, adaptation, finance and technology under the AWG-LCA, Annex I emission reductions and other issues under the AWG-KP, and various topics under the SBSTA and SBI. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-7 HIGHLIGHTS, THURSDAY, 8 NOVEMBER 2001

    The High-Level Segment of COP-7 continued with statements from 30 ministers and other heads of delegation, and from observer states, IGOs and NGOs. The SBI met to conclude its work. High-level talks and technical discussions took place during the day and into the night on the mechanisms, LULUCF, Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information), and input to the WSSD. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE GENEVA CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE, 8-13 FEBRUARY 2015

    The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Geneva Climate Change Conference took place in Geneva, Switzerland, from 8-13 February 2015. Over 1,300 participants attended the meeting, representing governments, observer organizations and the media. The Geneva conference was the first of several meetings in preparation for the Paris Climate Change Conference that will be held in France in December 2015. The Paris Conference is mandated to adopt a protocol, another legal instrument or an agreed outcome with legal force under the Convention applicable to all parties, which will be implemented from 2020 onwards. The body tasked with developing the Paris agreement is the Ad Hoc Working Group on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action (ADP). In Geneva, the ADP held the eighth part of its second session (ADP 2-8). In December 2014, the 20th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 20) to the UNFCCC requested the ADP to intensify its work, with a view to presenting a negotiating text for a protocol, another legal instrument or an agreed outcome with legal force under the Convention applicable to all parties before May 2015. In their scenario note (ADP.2015.1.InformalNote), ADP Co-Chairs Ahmed Djoghlaf (Algeria) and Daniel Reifsnyder (US) identified the objective of the Geneva session as delivering the negotiating text. The ADP based its work towards a negotiating text on the elements for a draft negotiating text annexed to Decision 1/CP.20 (Lima Call for Climate Action). The ADP contact group worked through the elements text section-by-section with parties proposing additions in places where they felt their views were not adequately reflected. Co-Chair Reifsnyder stressed that the main objective was to ensure that the text fully reflects parties positions. Making good progress, parties finished the first reading of the elements text on Tuesday. The revised text grew in length from 39 to 86 pages. Between Tuesday and Thursday, the Co-Chairs and many parties made proposals to start streamlining the text. Other parties called for more time to consider the revised text, indicating they were not ready to proceed with streamlining. By the end of the session, parties only submitted technical corrections to the Secretariat. A number of delegates expressed satisfaction with the progress made and the way in which the Co-Chairs had guided parties through the process of developing a negotiating text. Others indicated that they had hoped to make more progress and indicated that critical negotiating time had been lost. On Friday afternoon, the ADP closing plenary agreed that the text developed in Geneva will be the basis on which the ADP will start substantive negotiations towards the Paris agreement in June in Bonn. Co-Chair Reifsnyder emphasized that the ADP has fulfilled the request by COP 20 and the negotiating text will be formally communicated to parties ahead of schedule in March. Read More
  • INC-11 HIGHLIGHTS: WEDNESDAY, 15 FEBRUARY 1995

    PLENARY In opening the session, INC Chair Rau’l Estrada-Oyuela announced that AOSIS nominated Samoa as a COP Vice Chair. AGENDA ITEM 2 - ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE FIRST SESSION OF THE COP Delegates adopted draft decision A/AC.237/L.25. The Committee’s report to the COP will also reflect that: the Committee... Read More
  • COP 14 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Friday, contact groups and informal consultations took place on many issues, including a shared vision, adaptation, delivering on technology and financing under the AWG-LCA , the second review under Protocol Article 9, the financial mechanism, spillover effects, REDD, the LDC Fund, the Adaptation Fund , CCS under the CDM, the mechanisms, and non-Annex I communications. Groups also met to discuss Protocol Articles 2.3 and 3.14 (adverse effects) and decision 1/CP.10 (adaptation and response measures). Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS OF FCCC COP-2: FRIDAY, 12 JULY 1996

    The fifth day of the Second Conference of the Parties (COP- 2) to the Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) commenced with a meeting of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI). The Ad Hoc Group on the Berlin Mandate (AGBM) sponsored two Informal Round Table discussions. The Plenary met briefly in the afternoon, followed by the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA). Read More
  • SB 26 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Wednesday, the UNFCCC Dialogue began, with participants meeting in the morning and afternoon to discuss how to realize the full potential of technology . An AWG contact group also convened, and contact groups and informal consultations under the SBSTA and SB I continued on a variety of issues, including the budget , deforestation , and Decision 1/CP.10 (Buenos Aires programme of work on adaptation and response measures). Read More
  • DURBAN HIGHLIGHTS

    Delegates met in contact groups and informal consultations on a wide range of agenda items under the COP, COP/MOP, AWG-LCA, AWG-KP, SBI and SBSTA. Negotiations continued during the day and into the night on draft texts that are expected to form the basis of the outcomes from Durban. Read More
  • CLIMATE CHANGE CONVENTION COP-1 HIGHLIGHTS:: TUESDAY, 28 MARCH 1995

    PLENARY COP-1 was opened by the Executive-Secretary, Michael Zammit Cutajar, who noted the need for Parties to shoulder the responsibility of the Convention’s effective implementation. He said that INC-11 had recommended the election of the head of the delegation of Germany, Federal Minister for Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear... Read More
  • EIGHTH SESSION OF WORKING GROUP THREE AND THE 24th SESSION OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 22-28 SEPTEMBER 2005

    The eighth session of Working Group III (WGIII-8) of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) will begin today in Montreal, Canada, to continue deliberations over the Special Report on Carbon Dioxide Capture and Storage. After presentations on aspects of the Special Report, participants will consider approval of a Summary for Policymakers and acceptance of the scientific and technical assessment underlying the Special Report. WGIII-8 will be followed by the twenty-fourth session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC-24), where participants will discuss: the IPCC-23 draft report; the IPCC programme and budget for 2006-08; the actions of WGIII-8 regarding the Special Report on Carbon Dioxide Capture and Storage; further work on aerosols and on emissions scenarios; outreach activities; and election procedures. Participants will also hear progress reports on: the activities of the three IPCC Working Groups; management of the Synthesis Report of the Fourth Assessment Report; the 2006 IPCC Guidelines for National Greenhouse Gas Inventories; and the work of the Task Group on Data and Scenario Support for Impact and Climate Analysis. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE UNFCCC SEMINAR OF GOVERNMENTAL EXPERTS: 16-17 MAY 2005

    The Seminar of Governmental Experts was held on 16 and 17 May 2005, at the Maritim Hotel in Bonn, Germany. The decision to hold a Seminar was taken by Parties at the Tenth Conference of the Parties (COP-10) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in December 2004. The decision, which followed lengthy discussions at COP-10, sought to address the question of how to engage on some of the broader issues facing the climate change process. Foremost among these for some Parties was the question of a future framework and commitments to combat climate change in the post-2012 period (the Kyoto Protocol sets emissions targets for the years 2008-2012). There was also some interest in other issues, such as how to respond to the increasingly strong evidence of climate change, address the differences of opinion over Kyoto, and move forward in dealing both with climate change mitigation and adaptation. Read More
  • BONN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE

    The Bonn Climate Change Conference opened on Monday. In the morning and afternoon, opening plenaries of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) took place. Read More
  • CANCUN HIGHLIGHTS

    Throughout Thursday, a number of contact groups and informal consultations convened under the COP/MOP, SBI, SBSTA, AWG-LCA and AWG-KP. Read More
  • SB 24 & AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    The first session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG) began on Wednesday, 17 May. It is scheduled to continue in parallel with the 24th sessions of the UNFCCC Subsidiary Bodies (SB 24) until 25 May (SB 24 is scheduled for 18-26 May). On the AWG’s first day, parties elected the Chair and Vice-Chair and provided initial views on the AWG’s future work plan. Read More
  • COP 13 AND COP/MOP 3 HIGHLIGHTS

    Contact groups and informal consultations were held throughout Monday in an effort to conclude work under the SBI and SBSTA before their closing plenaries scheduled for Tuesday. Delegates completed their work on a range of issues, including the Adaptation Fund , education, training and public awareness , mitigation, carbon capture and storage under the CDM , the IPCC , and the Nairobi Work Programme . Discussions continued into the night on capacity building , non-Annex I communications , reducing emissions from deforestation , and technology transfer . Discussions also continued on long-term cooperative action under the Convention , the AWG , and second review of the Protocol under Article 9 . Read More
  • SB 32 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning and afternoon, contact groups and informal consultations took place on issues including Convention Article 6 (education, training and public awareness) and international transaction log fees under the SBI, item 3 (preparation of an outcome to be presented to COP 16) under the AWG-LCA and Annex I emission reductions, other issues and legal issues under the AWG-KP. Read More
  • UNFCCC WORKSHOP ON ENABLING ENVIRONMENTS FOR TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER: 9-10 APRIL 2003

    The workshop on enabling environments for technology transfer convened from 9-10 April 2003, at the Het Pand Conference Center, Ghent University, Belgium. The workshop was organized by the Secretariat of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in collaboration with the Center for Sustainable Development, Ghent University. The workshop was convened in response to a request by the UNFCCC’s Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) at its seventeenth session, held in October 2002. The SBSTA also requested the Secretariat to prepare a technical paper on enabling environments for the transfer of environmentally-sound technology (ESTs) for consideration by the UNFCCC Expert Group on Technology Transfer (EGTT) at its third meeting in late May 2003. In response to this request, the Secretariat commissioned the Tata Energy and Resource Institute (TERI) to develop a draft technical paper on the issue. The paper was submitted in early April. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MEETINGS OF THE FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES, 27 OCTOBER 1997

    Delegates to the eighth session of the Ad Hoc Group on the Berlin Mandate (AGBM-8) met in Plenary in the morning. The seventh session of Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI- 7) considered arrangements for intergovernmental meetings. In the afternoon, delegates met in ‘non-group’ sessions on Article 4.1, policies and measures (P&Ms) and institutions and mechanisms. Some non-groups also convened for evening sessions. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE THIRD CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UNITED NATIONS FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE 9 DECEMBER 1997

    Delegates to the Third Conference of the Parties (COP-3) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) continued the high-level segment throughout the day. The Committee of the Whole (COW) met in the evening and early morning to consider a revised Chair’s negotiating text. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE BARCELONA CLIMATE CHANGE TALKS, 2-6 NOVEMBER 2009

    The second part of the seventh session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (AWG-LCA 7) and the second part of the ninth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP 9) took place from 2-6 November 2009 in Barcelona, Spain. Approximately 3,100 participants attended the meeting, representing governments, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations, academia, the private sector and the media. This was the final round of negotiations under both AWGs before the fifteenth Conference of the Parties (COP 15) in Copenhagen, Denmark, from 7-18 December 2009. The main objective of the Barcelona session was to continue streamlining text, and to identify key issues and provide clear options for ministers to choose from in Copenhagen. AWG-LCA 7 focused on the key elements of the Bali Action Plan (BAP), namely: adaptation, finance, technology, mitigation, capacity building and a shared vision for long-term cooperative action. It began addressing these issues based on several non-papers developed by the first part of AWG-LCA 7 three weeks earlier in Bangkok. The AWG-LCA produced a series of new non-papers that will be compiled and forwarded to Copenhagen as an annex to the meeting report ( FCCC/AWGLCA/2009/L.4 ). Many felt the AWG-LCA made progress, albeit uneven, in Barcelona on the key elements of the BAP. However, many also stressed that hard work, trust and considerable political will be required in Copenhagen to achieve a successful outcome. The legal form of the AWG-LCA s outcome in Copenhagen also remains undecided. Some at the meeting were therefore speculating whether the negotiations will lead to a legally-binding instrument, or whether the agreed outcome will consist of a series of COP decisions, containing agreement on certain fundamental issues, such as mitigation and finance. Some also identified the need for a new mandate to continue negotiations in order to complete the details, and possibly to turn the outcome into a legally-binding instrument in 2010. Others, however, highlighted the unprecedented political momentum generated for Copenhagen and objected to what they saw as a lowering of expectations. During the second part of AWG-KP 9, discussions continued on Annex I parties emission reductions beyond the first commitment period under the Kyoto Protocol. At the beginning of the meeting, the African Group, supported by other developing countries, called for halting the AWG-KP s work on issues other than the numbers. This led to suspension of all AWG-KP contact groups until Wednesday, after agreement had been reached to devote 60% of meeting time to numbers and evaluate progress at the end of each day. The AWG-KP did not finish consideration of numbers or of any of the other issues included in its work programme, such as the flexibility mechanisms, land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF), and the potential consequences of response measures. This means that the AWG-KP will have to finalize its work on all these issues in Copenhagen before reporting to the fifth Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of Parties (COP/MOP 5). Read More
  • CLIMATE CHANGE CONVENTION COP-1 HIGHLIGHTS:: FRIDAY, 31 MARCH 1995 AND: SATURDAY, 1 APRIL 1995

    COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE The Committee of the Whole met Friday afternoon to discuss the roles of the subsidiary bodies and adopt decisions on the report of the GEF and financial procedures. AGENDA ITEM 5(a)(iv) THE ROLES OF THE SUBSIDIARY BODIES: The COW considered Recommendation 8 on subsidiary bodies... Read More
  • AWGLCA 1 AND AWG 5 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Tuesday, the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWGLCA) continued opening statements from parties and observers. It then held discussions on the work programme in an informal plenary and drafting group . In the morning and afternoon, the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG) held an in-session workshop on means to reach emission reduction targets , focusing on the flexible mechanisms. Read More
  • TWENTIETH SESSIONS OF THE SUBSIDIARY BODIES OF THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 16-25 JUNE 2004

    The twentieth sessions of the Subsidiary Bodies (SB-20) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) open today at the Maritim Hotel in Bonn, Germany. The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) and Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) have numerous issues on the agenda in preparation for the entry into force of the Kyoto Protocol. SBSTA will address, inter alia, methodological issues, including good practice guidance for land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF), harvested wood products and other issues relating to LULUCF, and small-scale afforestation and reforestation project activities under the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM). Parties will also address issues relating to greenhouse gas inventories, Protocol Articles 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information), including registry systems, and technology transfer. SBI will discuss, inter alia, national communications, the financial mechanism, capacity building, and administrative and financial matters. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-6 HIGHLIGHTS, WEDNESDAY, 15 NOVEMBER 2000

    Delegates convened in contact groups throughout the day to discuss text on: land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); guidelines under Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information); development and transfer of technologies; adverse effects; and ‘best practices’ in policies and measures. The Joint Working Group on Compliance (JWG) met in the evening to continue its consideration of negotiating text. In addition, negotiators met in closed ‘informal informal’ consultations and drafting group meetings to consider several issues, including mechanisms, development and transfer of technologies, the financial mechanism, adverse effects and capacity building in developing countries. Read More
  • WARSAW HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning, the resumed SBI closing plenary and the COP President’s informal stocktaking plenary convened. Throughout the day, a number of contact groups, informal consultations and other meetings were held under the COP, CMP and ADP. These included: ADP open-ended consultations on the implementation of all the elements of both workstreams; open-ended informal consultations on decision-making in the UNFCCC process; and informal consultations on the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM). Read More
  • BONN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE

    In the morning, the opening plenary of the Ad Hoc Working Group on the Durban Platform (ADP) and an in-forum workshop on response measures convened. In the afternoon, the second meeting of the Durban Forum on Capacity Building, SBSTA Research Dialogue and the ADP roundtable on Workstream 1: variety of actions, took place. In the morning and afternoon, various contact groups and informal consultations were held under SBSTA. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE UNFCCC WORKSHOP ON METHODOLOGICAL ISSUES RELATING TO REDUCING EMISSIONS FROM DEFORESTATION AND FOREST DEGRADATION IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES, 25-27 JUNE 2008

    The UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Workshop on Methodological Issues Relating to Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation in Developing Countries (REDD) was held from 25- 27 June 2008 at United Nations University in Tokyo, Japan. The workshop is part of a programme of work undertaken by the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) in 2008 on methodological issues related to a range of policy approaches and positive incentives for REDD. Approximately 150 participants were in attendance, representing governments, UN agencies and constituted bodies, academia, non-governmental organizations and experts. The workshop featured presentations and discussions on the development of methodologies specific to REDD (establishing reference emission levels, scale of implementation, implications and guidance), issues and challenges related to estimating, monitoring and reporting greenhouse gas emissions from deforestation and forest degradation , and options for assessing the effectiveness of actions and criteria . Participants also discussed needs and implications related to linking methodologies and policy approaches . A field trip, organized by the Japanese Forestry Agency, took participants to the Meiji Jingu shrine and its surrounding forest in central Tokyo on the last afternoon. The draft summary of views expressed and issues discussed during the workshop regarding outstanding methodological issues related to REDD, presented on Friday 27 by Helen Plume, Chair of SBSTA will be included in her report to the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-Term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA) at its third session to be held in Accra, Ghana, in August 2008. Outcomes of the work on methodological issues, including any recommendations on possible methodological approaches, will be reported by SBSTA 29 to the UNFCCC Conference of the Parties (COP) at its fourteenth session, to be held in Poznan, Poland, in December 2008. SBSTA 29 is also expected to consider ways to move the process forward, including through possibly holding another workshop, expert meeting and/or informal consultations before SBSTA 30. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-10 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Tuesday, COP-10 delegates convened in SBI and SBSTA plenary meetings and in contact groups. SBI discussed Annex I and non-Annex I national communications, the UNFCCC’s financial mechanism, capacity building, UNFCCC Article 6 (education, training and public awareness), and the continuing review of the functions and operations of the Secretariat. SBSTA addressed, inter alia: greenhouse gas inventories; registry systems under Protocol Article 7.4; Protocol Articles 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information); technology transfer; good practices in policies and measures (P&Ms); and cooperation with relevant international organizations. Contact groups addressed good practice guidance (GPG) for land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF), research and systematic observation (R&SO), small-scale afforestation and reforestation (A&R) project activities under the CDM, and progress on the implementation of activities under decision 5/CP.7 (adverse effects). Read More
  • GENEVA CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE, 8 - 13 FEBRUARY 2015

    Opening today, negotiations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) are scheduled to continue in Geneva, Switzerland, until 13 February 2015. The conference is the first of several meetings in preparation for the Paris Climate Change Conference that will be held in France in December 2015. The Paris Conference is mandated to adopt a protocol, another legal instrument or an agreed outcome with legal force under the Convention applicable to all parties. The agreement will be implemented from 2020 onwards. The body tasked with developing the Paris Agreement is the Ad Hoc Working Group on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action (ADP). In Geneva, the ADP will hold the eighth part of its second session (ADP 2-8). The 20th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 20) in December 2014 requested the ADP to intensify its work, with a view to making available a negotiating text for a protocol, another legal instrument or an agreed outcome with legal force under the Convention before May 2015 (Decision 1/CP.20). In their scenario note (ADP.2015.1.InformalNote), ADP Co-Chairs Ahmed Djoghlaf (Algeria) and Daniel Reifsnyder (US) identify the objective of the Geneva session as delivering the negotiating text since there are no other negotiating sessions planned before May 2015. As also requested by COP 20, the text will be communicated by the Secretariat to all Parties in accordance with Convention provisions and applicable rules of procedure. Read More
  • COP 11 AND COP/MOP 1 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Thursday, delegates convened in a dozen contact groups and several informal consultations on agenda items under the COP, COP/MOP and subsidiary bodies. Contact groups convened to discuss the CDM Executive Board’s report, implications of the CDM for other environmental treaties, joint implementation (JI), capacity building under the Kyoto Protocol, the Protocol’s international transaction log, Protocol Article 3.9 (future commitments), research and systematic observation, deforestation in developing countries, Annex I communications, the IPCC Special Report on carbon dioxide capture and storage, the Secretariat’s institutional linkage to the UN and privileges and immunities of individuals serving on bodies established under the Protocol. Informal consultations covered issues such as technology transfer, mitigation, and the financial mechanism. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE SECOND CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE:: 8 - 19 JULY 1996

    The Second Conference of the Parties (COP-2) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) met in Geneva from 8-19 July 1996. More than 1500 participants from governments, intergovernmental organizations and NGOs took part in the meetings. While many of the more contentious issues, such as treatment of the IPCC Second Assessment Report (SAR), were left unresolved COP-2 did produce some important political statements. The COP concluded by noting the ‘Geneva Declaration,’ which endorses the IPCC conclusions and calls for legally binding objectives and significant reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Read More
  • UNFCCC TECHNICAL WORKSHOP ON INTEGRATING PRACTICES, TOOLS AND SYSTEMS FOR CLIMATE RISK ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT AND DISASTER RISK REDUCTION STRATEGIES INTO NATIONAL POLICIES AND PROGRAMMES, 10-12 MARCH 2009

    The Workshop on Integrating Practices, Tools and Systems for Climate Risk Assessment and Management and Disaster Risk Reduction Strategies into National Policies and Programmes was held from 10-12 March 2009, in Havana, Cuba. The workshop took place under the aegis of the Nairobi Work Programme on Impacts, Vulnerability and Adaptation to Climate Change, which was established in 2006 under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The event was held in collaboration with the UN International Strategy for Disaster Reduction. Approximately 80 participants were in attendance, representing governments, UN agencies and constituted bodies, academia, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). The meeting aimed to identify successful examples of using tools and integrating climate risk assessment and management and disaster risk reduction into national policies and programmes. The workshop generated a number of recommendations regarding climate-related hazards, sectoral and national level planning. The report of the workshop will be presented to the thirtieth session of the UNFCCC s Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice, which will take place from 1-12 June 2009, for its consideration. Read More
  • REPORT OF THE FOURTH CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 2-13 NOVEMBER 1998

    The Fourth Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) was held from 2-13 November 1998 in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and was attended by over 5,000 participants. During the two-week meeting, delegates deliberated decisions for the COP during the ninth sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI-9) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA-9). Issues related to the Kyoto Protocol were considered in joint SBI/SBSTA sessions. A high-level segment, which heard statements from over 100 ministers and heads of delegation, was convened on Thursday, 12 November. Read More
  • BONN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE

    In the morning, an ADP workshop on pre-2020 ambition focusing on energy took place, as well as a SBI plenary session, which continued discussions on the agenda. In the afternoon, a joint SBI/SBSTA in-forum expert meeting on response measures was held and a workshop on the need to improve the coordination of support for the implementation of REDD+. ADP informal consultations also convened in the afternoon, and a number of SBSTA contact groups and informal groups also met throughout the day. Read More
  • UNFCCC SB-18 HIGHLIGHTS

    Delegates to the Eighteenth Sessions of the Subsidiary Bodies of the UNFCCC (SB-18) convened in morning SBI and afternoon SBSTA sessions. The SBI considered: administrative and financial matters, arrangements for intergovernmental meetings, and non-Annex I financial matters. The SBSTA addressed: ‘good practices’ in policies and measures (P&Ms), development and transfer of technologies, and research and systematic observation (R&SO). Contact groups met to consider the IPCC Third Assessment Report (TAR), sinks in the CDM, arrangements for intergovernmental meetings, and R&SO. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE FOURTH UNFCCC CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES, 12 NOVEMBER 1998

    Delegates heard statements from ministers and other heads of delegation in a high level segment. High level informal consultations were held throughout the day. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE EIGHTEENTH SESSIONS OF THE SUBSIDIARY BODIES OF THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 4-13 JUNE 2003

    The eighteenth sessions of the Subsidiary Bodies (SB-18) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) were held from 4-13 June 2003, at the Maritim Hotel in Bonn, Germany. Over 1288 participants representing 137 Parties, one observer State, 107 observer organizations, and six media outlets were in attendance. At SB-18, delegates continued to address issues under negotiation since COP-8 and prepare for the Kyoto Protocol’s entry into force. Throughout the meeting, Parties convened in contact groups, informal consultations, and plenary sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) to adopt draft conclusions and approve draft COP decisions on a number of issues, including: the Special Climate Change Fund (SCCF); implementation of UNFCCC Article 4.8 and 4.9 (adverse effects); capacity building; the programme budget for the biennium 2004-2005; definitions and modalities for including afforestation and reforestation activities under Protocol Article 12 (Clean Development Mechanism); ‘good practices’ in policies and measures (P&Ms); the IPCC Third Assessment Report (TAR); and methodological issues. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MEETINGS OF THE FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES, 2 JUNE 1998

    Delegates to the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technical Advice (SBSTA) held opening sessions in the morning. In the afternoon, SBI and SBSTA met in a joint Plenary session to consider mechanisms for cooperative implementation of the Protocol. Read More
  • WARSAW HIGHLIGHTS

    On Thursday morning, the high-level ministerial dialogue on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action took place. Throughout the day, contact groups, informal consultations and other meetings were held under the COP, CMP and ADP, including the ADP open-ended consultations on both workstreams. The COP/CMP President’s informal stocktaking plenary took place in the evening. Read More
  • UNFCCC SB-16 HIGHLIGHTS, WEDNESDAY, 12 JUNE 2002

    The SBI convened in the afternoon to consider the adoption of its agenda, a request from a group of countries from Central Asia and the Caucasus, Albania and Moldova (CACAM), and a proposal by Croatia on LULUCF. Read More
  • IPCC-24 HIGHLIGHTS

    The eighth session of Working Group III (WGIII-8) of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) began on Thursday, 22 September, in Montreal, Canada, with delegates considering the Special Report on Carbon Dioxide Capture and Storage (Special Report). In the morning, delegates heard opening addresses, listened to a presentation on the draft Summary for Policymakers (SPM) and began deliberations on the text of the draft SPM. In the afternoon, delegates continued line-by-line deliberations on the text. Delegates also met in a contact group to consider the first two paragraphs of the SPM, which define carbon dioxide capture and storage (CCS) and discuss how it could contribute to mitigating climate change. Read More
  • SB 36 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning and afternoon, the ADP in-session workshop took place. A number of contact groups and informal consultations were held under the SBI, SBSTA and AWG-LCA throughout the day. Read More
  • FCCC COP-5 HIGHLIGHTS, MONDAY, 1 NOVEMBER 1999

    The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) adopted 15 draft conclusions relating to: Annex I communications; research and systematic observation; technology transfer; methodological issues; cooperation with relevant international organizations; and the roster of experts. The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) adopted 15 draft conclusions on Annex I communications, non-Annex I communications, the financial mechanism, arrangements for intergovernmental meetings, and administrative and financial matters. The Joint Working Group (JWG) on compliance considered the Chair’s draft conclusions relating to compliance under the Kyoto Protocol. Contact groups met to continue discussions on: adverse effects; activities implemented jointly (AIJ); mechanisms; and land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF). Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS OF FCCC COP-2: TUESDAY, 16 JULY 1996

    The seventh day of the Second Conference of the Parties (COP-2) to the Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) commenced with meetings of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) and the Ad Hoc Group on the Berlin Mandate (AGBM). The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and AGBM met in the afternoon. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE 34TH SESSION OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE, 18-19 NOVEMBER 2011

    The 34th session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) was held from 18-19 November 2011 in Kampala, Uganda. The session was attended by more than two hundred participants, including representatives from governments, the United Nations, and intergovernmental and observer organizations. Participants focused primarily on the workstreams resulting from the consideration of the InterAcademy Council (IAC) Review of the IPCC processes and procedures, namely those on: procedures, conflict of interest policy, and communications strategy. The Panel adopted the revised Procedures for the Preparation, Review, Acceptance, Adoption, Approval and Publication of IPCC Reports, as well as the Implementation Procedures and Disclosure Form for the Conflict of Interest Policy. The Panel also formally accepted the Summary for Policy Makers (SPM) of the Special Report on Managing the Risks of Extreme Events and Disasters to Advance Climate Change Adaptation (SREX), approved by WGs I and II at their joint meeting from 14-17 November 2011. Delegates also addressed issues such as the programme and budget, matters related to other international bodies, and progress reports. Read More
  • SEVENTH CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE: MONDAY, 29 OCTOBER 2001

    The Seventh Conference of the Parties (COP-7) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) opened on Monday, 29 October, in Marrakesh, Morocco. Delegates met in the morning for an opening Plenary session to hear speeches and address organizational matters. In the afternoon, the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) met separately to begin their work. SBI discussed organizational, administrative and financial matters, non-Annex I communications, and issues referred to it by the COP. SBSTA considered various organizational issues, as well as the Third Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). Read More
  • CLIMATE CHANGE CONVENTION COP-1 HIGHLIGHTS:: THURSDAY, 30 MARCH 1995

    PLENARY The Plenary heard statements from governments, intergovernmental organizations, UN agencies and NGOs. UNDP Administrator James Gustave Speth called for the immediate negotiation of a protocol to reduce CO2 emissions. The necessary fossil fuel emission reductions are achievable if the appropriate technologies are disseminated. UNDP will support developing... Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE LIMA CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE, 1-14 DECEMBER 2014

    The Lima Climate Change Conference convened from 1-14 December 2014, in Lima, Peru. It included the 20th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 20) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the 10th session of the Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (CMP 10). Three subsidiary bodies (SBs) also met: the 41st sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA 41) and the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI 41), and the seventh part of the second session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action (ADP 2-7). The Lima Climate Change Conference brought together over 11,000 participants, including approximately 6,300 government officials, 4,000 representatives from UN bodies and agencies, intergovernmental organizations and civil society organizations, and 900 members of the media. Negotiations in Lima focused on outcomes under the ADP necessary to advance towards an agreement in Paris at COP 21 in 2015, including elaboration of the information, and process, required for submission of intended nationally determined contributions (INDCs) as early as possible in 2015 and progress on elements of a draft negotiating text. Following lengthy negotiations on a draft decision for advancing the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action, COP 20 adopted the Lima Call for Climate Action, which sets in motion the negotiations in the coming year towards a 2015 agreement, the process for submitting and reviewing INDCs, and enhancing pre-2020 ambition. Parties also adopted 19 decisions, 17 under the COP and two under the CMP that, inter alia : help operationalize the Warsaw International Mechanism for Loss and Damage; establish the Lima work programme on gender; and adopt the Lima Declaration on Education and Awareness Raising. The Lima Climate Change Conference was able to lay the groundwork for Paris next year, by capturing progress made in elaborating the elements of a draft negotiating text for the 2015 agreement and adopting a decision on INDCs, including their scope, upfront information, and steps to be taken by the Secretariat after their submission. Read More
  • UNFCCC SB 22 HIGHLIGHTS

    The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) began its twenty-second session on Friday morning, considering its agenda and organization of work before taking up agenda items on non-Annex I national communications and arrangements for intergovernmental meetings. In the afternoon, SBI addressed administrative, budget and financial matters, the financial mechanism, implementation of UNFCCC Article 4.8 and 4.9 (adverse effects), and various other matters. SBSTA contact groups and informal meetings were held on research needs relating to the Convention, the CDM and other environmental treaties, methodologies for adjustments for LULUCF, technology transfer, and issues relating to hydrofluorocarbons and perfluorocarbons. Read More
  • REPORT OF THE THIRD CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UNITED NATIONS FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 1 – 11 DECEMBER 1997

    The Third Conference of the Parties (COP-3) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) was held from 1 - 11 December 1997 in Kyoto, Japan. Over 10,000 participants, including representatives from governments, intergovernmental organizations, NGOs and the press, attended the Conference, which included a high-level segment featuring statements from over 125 ministers. Following a week and a half of intense formal and informal negotiations, including a session on the final evening that lasted into the following day, Parties to the FCCC adopted the Kyoto Protocol on 11 December. Read More
  • SB 34 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    On Tuesday morning, the opening plenaries of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP) and the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) convened. In the morning and afternoon, the opening plenary of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA) took place. The AWG-LCA contact group also convened in the afternoon. The opening plenary of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) remained suspended throughout the day. Read More
  • SB 28 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    On Wednesday, contact groups and informal consultations were held on a range of issues, including long-term cooperative action under the AWG-LCA , the flexible mechanisms and LULUCF under the AWG-KP, arrangements for intergovernmental meetings, capacity building, carbon capture and storage, mitigation, review of the financial mechanism, non-Annex I communications, reducing emissions from deforestation in developing countries , and technology transfer. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-10 HIGHLIGHTS

    The tenth Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC (COP-10) and the 21st sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA-21) and the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI-21) opened on Monday, 6 December, in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The COP heard opening statements and discussed its agenda. The opening sessions of SBI and SBSTA were held in the afternoon. SBSTA took up methodological issues, including: good practice guidance for land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); small-scale afforestation and reforestation (A&R) project activities under the CDM; and emissions from aviation and maritime transport. Parties also addressed research and systematic observation (R&SO). SBI discussed progress on the implementation of activities under decision 5/CP.7 (adverse effects), least developed countries (LDCs), and the level of emissions for the base year of Croatia. Read More
  • IPCC-25 HIGHLIGHTS

    Delegates convened in plenary in the morning, afternoon and evening to discuss election procedures for the IPCC Bureau and any Task Force Bureau, a policy and process for admitting observer organizations, the future work programme of the Task Force on National Greenhouse Gas Inventories (TFI), a possible review of the IPCC terms of reference, and the 2006 Guidelines. Delegates also heard progress reports on work toward the AR4 and on other IPCC activities. The FTT met to continue discussions of the IPCC programme and budget for 2006-09, as did contact groups on emissions scenarios and on the 2006 Guidelines. The Coordinating Lead Authors of the 2006 Guidelines also held a lunchtime question and answer session. Read More
  • WARSAW HIGHLIGHTS

    On Wednesday, the high-level ministerial dialogue on climate finance took place in the morning and afternoon. Throughout the day, contact groups, informal consultations and other meetings were held under the COP, CMP and ADP. These included ADP open-ended consultations on both workstreams, and COP open-ended informal consultations on decision-making in the UNFCCC process. The COP/CMP President’s informal stocktaking plenary was held in the evening. Read More
  • WARSAW HIGHLIGHTS

    The ADP informal stocktaking plenary took place in the morning and afternoon. The SBI and SBSTA closing plenaries took place in the evening, continuing late into the night. Throughout the day, a number of contact groups and informal consultations were held. Read More
  • BONN CLIMATE CHANGE TALKS, 1-12 JUNE 2009

    From 1-12 June 2009, several meetings are taking place in Bonn, Germany, as part of ongoing negotiations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Kyoto Protocol. The Convention s subsidiary bodies, the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA), will hold their 30th sessions. Longer-term aspects of international climate change cooperation will be considered by the sixth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA 6) and the eighth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP 8). The two AWGs are scheduled to conclude their work by the fifteenth session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 15) to be held in Copenhagen, Denmark, in December 2009. At its sixth meeting , the AWG-LCA is expected to concentrate on a Chair s negotiating text ( FCCC/AWGLCA/2009/8 ). The text encompasses the key aspects of the Bali Action Plan (decision 1/CP.13) , namely a shared vision for long-term cooperative action, mitigation, adaptation, finance and technology. In addition, AWG-LCA Chair Michael Zammit Cutajar (Malta) is proposing that AWG-LCA 8 consult informally on the legal form of the outcome and further organization of work ( FCCC/AWGLCA/2009/7 ). The AWG-KP Chair John Ashe (Antigua and Barbuda) has prepared two documents for AWG-KP 8: a proposal on amendments to the Kyoto Protocol pursuant to Article 3.9 (Annex I parties further commitments) ; and a text on other issues, such as land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF), the flexibility mechanisms, common metrics and greenhouse gases, sectors and source categories. These documents were requested by AWG-KP 7, which also agreed to continue considering Annex I parties aggregate emission reductions in the post-2012 period as a key focus of AWG-KP 8. At its thirtieth session , the SBI is expected to take up agenda items such as capacity building, national communications, technology transfer, the financial mechanism and administrative, financial and institutional matters. The SBSTA is expected to consider, inter alia , the Nairobi Work Programme (NWP), methodological issues, reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation in developing countries (REDD), and technology transfer. Read More
  • SB 30 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning and afternoon, the AWG-LCA met in an informal plenary . Throughout the day, contact groups and informal consultations took place under the AWG-KP. Read More
  • COPENHAGEN HIGHLIGHTS

    On Tuesday, opening plenaries of the SBI and SBSTA took place. Contact groups and informal consultations also convened to consider various issues, including long-term cooperative action, a shared vision, finance, mitigation and technology under the AWG-LCA, Annex I emission reductions, other issues and potential consequences under the AWG-KP and REDD under the SBSTA. Read More
  • ELEVENTH CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE AND FIRST MEETING OF THE PARTIES TO THE KYOTO PROTOCOL: 28 NOVEMBER – 9 DECEMBER 2005

    The first Meeting of the Parties serving as the Conference of Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (COP/MOP 1) is taking place in Montreal, Canada, from 28 November to 9 December 2005. The event is being held in conjunction with the eleventh Conference of the Parties (COP 11) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). These meetings are expected to draw as many as 10,000 participants. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE UNFCCC EXPERT MEETING ON SOCIOECONOMIC INFORMATION UNDER THE NAIROBI WORK PROGRAMME ON IMPACTS, VULNERABILITY AND ADAPTATION TO CLIMATE CHANGE, 10-12 MARCH 2008

    The UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Expert Group Meeting on socioeconomic information under the Nairobi Work Programme on Impacts, Vulnerability and Adaptation to Climate Change (NWP) was held from 10-12 March 2008, in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago. Approximately 70 participants were in attendance, representing governments, UN agencies and constituted bodies, academia, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and those contributing as experts. The meeting aimed to identify specific gaps and needs in integrating socioeconomic information into impacts and vulnerability assessments and adaptation planning. The workshop generated a number of recommendations regarding: ways and means to improve the availability, accessibility and effectiveness of information on socioeconomic aspects of climate change ; integrating socioeconomic information into impact and vulnerability assessments ; and the application of socioeconomic information in the context of adaptation planning . The report of the workshop will be forwarded to the twenty-eighth session of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA 28), scheduled to convene in June 2008 in Bonn, Germany, and will contribute to a summary report on the NWP that will be distributed in advance of SBSTA 29, to be held in December 2008, in Poznan, Poland. Read More
  • LIMA HIGHLIGHTS

    On Saturday, 6 December, the SBSTA closing plenary took place in the afternoon, and the CMP plenary convened in the evening. Throughout the day, the ADP contact group on item 3 addressed elements, including transparency and times frames and process related to commitments/contributions, and the draft decision on advancing the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action. An informal stocktaking meeting assessed progress under the ADP. The first working group session of the multilateral assessment under the international assessment and review (IAR) process took place throughout the day. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS OF FCCC COP-2: MONDAY, 15 JULY 1996

    The sixth day of the Second Conference of the Parties (COP- 2) to the Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) commenced with meetings of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) and an informal Round Table organized by the Ad Hoc Group on the Berlin Mandate (AGBM). Both SBSTA and a formal session of the AGBM met in the afternoon, while contact groups of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) met all day. Read More
  • DOHA HIGHLIGHTS

    On Tuesday afternoon, the opening ceremony of the COP 18 and CMP 8 high-level segment took place. In the morning, afternoon and evening, contact groups and informal consultations convened under the COP, CMP, ADP, AWG-LCA and AWG-KP. Read More
  • SB 34 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning, the SBSTA dialogue on relevant research activities convened. In the morning and afternoon, the SBI in-session workshop on enhancing the engagement of observer organizations also took place. Throughout the day, informal consultations were held under the AWG-LCA on issues including shared vision, finance, technology, capacity building, review and various approaches, including markets. The AWG-KP contact group on item 3 (Annex I parties further commitments) met in the morning and afternoon. The opening plenaries of the SBI and SBSTA remained suspended throughout the day. Read More
  • BONN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE

    In the morning and afternoon, an ADP Roundtable on Workstream 2 on building a practical and results-oriented approach to increasing pre-2020 ambition was held. In the afternoon, an ADP Roundtable on Workstream 1 convened to discuss a variety of enhanced actions, as did a workshop under the Structured Expert Dialogue of the 2013-2015 Review. A joint SBI/SBSTA in-forum workshop on response measures also met in the morning and a number of SBSTA contact groups and informal groups met throughout the day. Read More
  • CANCUN HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning and afternoon, opening plenaries of the SBI and SBSTA took place, as well as informal groups under the two AWGs. Read More
  • PART II OF THE SIXTH CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 16-27 JULY 2001

    Informal consultations preceding the resumed Sixth Conference of the Parties (COP-6 Part II) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) begin today at the Maritim Hotel in Bonn, Germany. These consultations will conclude Thursday morning, 19 July, and will be followed by the official opening of COP-6 Part II Thursday afternoon. A high-level segment will commence Thursday evening and conclude on Sunday, 22 July. The conference is scheduled to continue at the diplomatic level from 23-27 July, and will include meetings of the COP’s Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA). Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE NINTH CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 1-12 DECEMBER 2003

    The ninth Conference of the Parties (COP-9) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the nineteenth sessions of the COP’s Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) and Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) were held at the Fiera Milan Congress Center in Milan, Italy, from 1-12 December 2003. Over 5000 participants from 166 governments, four observer States, 312 intergovernmental, non-governmental and other observer organizations, and 191 media outlets were in attendance. Throughout the meeting, Parties convened in several contact groups and informal consultations, as well as in plenary sessions of the SBSTA, SBI and COP. At COP-9, Parties adopted numerous decisions and conclusions on various issues, including: definitions and modalities for including afforestation and reforestation activities under the Clean Development Mechanism; good practice guidance on land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); the Special Climate Change Fund (SCCF); and the Least Developed Countries (LDC) Fund. Three ministerial high-level round-table discussions were held on Wednesday and Thursday, 10-11 December. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM FCCC SB-13, MONDAY, 11 SEPTEMBER 2000

    On the opening day of the thirteenth sessions of the FCCC subsidiary bodies (SB-13), delegates convened in the morning for a welcoming ceremony and to address organizational matters. In the afternoon, a joint session of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) was held, during which Parties made general statements and addressed issues relating to adverse effects, compliance, activities implemented jointly (AIJ), the mechanisms, and capacity building. In addition, SBSTA considered a number of issues, including land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF), technology transfer, and policies and measures. A contact group met to discuss capacity building and informal consultations were held on administrative and financial matters. Read More
  • THIRTEENTH CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE AND THIRD MEETING OF THE PARTIES TO THE KYOTO PROTOCOL: 3-14 DECEMBER 2007

    The United Nations Climate Change Conference in Bali begins today and will continue until 14 December. The event includes the thirteenth Conference of the Parties (COP 13) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and third Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (COP/MOP 3) . In addition, the twenty-seventh sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI 27) and Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA 27) will be held, as well as the resumed fourth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG 4). A joint COP and COP/MOP high-level segment will take place from 12-14 December. Delegates will deliberate on a wide range of topics and agenda items, with a major focus being post-2012, when the Kyoto Protocol’s first commitment period expires. In particular, delegates will seek to agree on a negotiating process to finalize a post-2012 regime. Other issues that will be taken up include the Kyoto Protocol’s flexible mechanisms, reducing emissions from deforestation in developing countries, technology transfer, financial issues, and issues relating to adaptation, including the Adaptation Fund. A large number of side events, parallel events and other meetings organized by various stakeholders will also take place on the margins of the official UN negotiations. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE WORKSHOP ON EMISSIONS PROJECTIONS FROM ANNEX I PARTIES: 6-8 SEPTEMBER 2004

    The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) workshop on emissions projections from Parties included in Annex I of the UNFCCC was held from 6-8 September 2004, at the Wissenschaftszentrum in Bonn, Germany. Over 80 participants from Annex I and non-Annex I Parties, as well as non-governmental organizations, were in attendance. The workshop represented the first occasion for Parties to consider emissions projections in detail. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MEETINGS OF THE FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES, 8 JUNE 1998

    The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) met to discuss arrangements for intergovernmental meetings, adverse impacts, national communications and NGO involvement. A joint SBI/SBSTA meeting convened in the afternoon to hear and discuss a report from the cooperative mechanisms contact group. The Ad Hoc Group on Article 13 (AG13) continued discussions on the Multilateral Consultative Process (MCP) in morning and afternoon sessions. Read More
  • WARSAW HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning, the opening ceremony of the Warsaw Climate Change Conference was held, followed by opening plenary of COP 19. In the afternoon and evening, opening plenaries of CMP 9, SBI 39 and SBSTA 39 convened. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 3 AND AWG-KP 6 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Saturday morning, delegates convened in a plenary session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA) and in contact groups on other issues (focusing on spillover effects) and on the flexible mechanisms under the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP) . In the afternoon, contact groups on enhancing action on adaptation and associated means for implementation , and on enhancing action on mitigation and associated means for implementation were held under the AWG-LCA . In addition, informal consultations were held on land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF) under the AWG-KP . Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-10 HIGHLIGHTS

    Delegates to COP-10 met in a SBSTA plenary and numerous contact groups on Friday. In the morning, SBSTA discussed scientific, technical and socioeconomic aspects of mitigation of climate change (mitigation) and a COP contact group took up the report of the CDM Executive Board (EB). SBI contact groups met throughout the day on: capacity building; the UNFCCC’s financial mechanism; UNFCCC Article 6 (education, training and public awareness); and matters relating to least developed countries (LDCs). SBSTA contact groups addressed: good practice guidance (GPG) on LULUCF activities under the Protocol, harvested wood products (HWP) and other issues relating to LULUCF; mitigation; and technology transfer. Read More
  • SB 32 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning, the AWG-KP plenary convened. In the morning and afternoon, contact groups and informal consultations took place on issues including Annex I national communications and arrangements for intergovernmental meetings under the SBI, item 3 (preparation of an outcome to be presented to COP 16) under the AWG-LCA and Annex I emission reductions and other issues under the AWG-KP. A joint SBI/SBSTA contact group on technology transfer also convened in the morning. In the evening, the focal point forum under the Nairobi work programme on impacts, vulnerability and adaptation (NWP) took place. Read More
  • FCCC COP-5 HIGHLIGHTS, WEDNESDAY, 3 NOVEMBER 1999

    Delegates to COP-5 convened in a high-level segment to exchange views on progress made so far in addressing climate change and on the way forward. The Joint Working Group (JWG) on compliance adopted the Co-Chair’s draft conclusions relating to compliance under the Kyoto Protocol. The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) adopted a decision on non-Annex I communications and its report on the session. The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) adopted its report on the session and draft conclusions on, inter alia, ‘best practices,’ land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF), and emissions from fuel used in international transportation. A joint SBI/SBSTA session adopted draft conclusions on adverse effects, activities implemented jointly (AIJ), mechanisms, capacity building and compliance. Read More
  • SB 24 & AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    Contact groups and informal consultations were held throughout Monday on a wide range of issues, including adaptation, the Adaptation Fund, arrangements for intergovernmental meetings, bunker fuels, capacity building (under both the Convention and the Protocol), deforestation, review of the financial mechanism, research and systematic observation, the Special Climate Change Fund and technology transfer. In addition, informal consultations continued under the AWG, and an in-session workshop on carbon capture and storage under the CDM took place. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MEETINGS OF THE FCCC SUBSIDARY BODIES, 28 OCTOBER 1997

    Delegates to the eighth session of the Ad Hoc Group on the Berlin Mandate (AGBM-8) convened non-group sessions on quantified emission limitation and reduction objectives (QELROs), Article 4.1 and policies and measures (P&Ms). The seventh session of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technical Advice (SBSTA-7) held its final session in the afternoon and considered draft conclusions and decisions on: methodological issues; the roster of experts; activities implemented jointly (AIJ); cooperation with relevant international organizations; and transfer of technologies. An NGO briefing was held in the morning. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 5 AND AWG-KP 7 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Saturday morning, the AWG-LCA convened an in-session workshop on mitigation in the agricultural sector. Throughout the day, AWG-LCA contact groups were held on technology and finance , adaptation and mitigation . The AWG-KP held various informal consultations , including on Annex I emission reductions , LULUCF , potential consequences and the flexibility mechanisms . Read More
  • SB 26 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Monday, the third session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG) began. The AWG spent most of the day in a round-table discussion on the mitigation potentials of policies, measures and technologies. In addition, contact groups and informal consultations under the SBSTA and SBI continued on a variety of issues, including: the Adaptation Fund ; deforestation ; IPCC guidelines for national greenhouses gas inventories ; research and systematic observation ; small-scale afforestation and reforestation CDM project activities ; and technology transfer . Read More
  • DURBAN HIGHLIGHTS

    The SBI and SBSTA closing plenaries began on Saturday afternoon and concluded late Saturday night. Contact groups and informal consultations were also held on a wide range of agenda items under the COP, COP/MOP, AWG-LCA and AWG-KP, with negotiations continuing throughout the day. Read More
  • TWENTY-SIXTH SESSIONS OF THE SUBSIDIARY BODIES OF THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE AND ASSOCIATED MEETINGS: 7-18 MAY 2007

    The twenty-sixth sessions of the Subsidiary Bodies (SB 26) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) are taking place from 7-18 May 2007, at the Maritim Hotel in Bonn, Germany. The third session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG) will also be held, from 14-18 May. In addition, the third workshop under the UNFCCC Dialogue on long-term cooperative action to address climate change by enhancing implementation of the Convention (UNFCCC Dialogue) will take place on 16 and 17 May. At SB 26 , the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) will take up issues such as the Nairobi work programme on impacts, vulnerability and adaptation to climate change, the development and transfer of technologies, reducing emissions from deforestation in developing countries, methodological issues, and climate change mitigation. The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) will consider national communications, the financial mechanism, including the Least Developed Countries Fund and Adaptation Fund, the adverse effects of climate change, capacity building, compliance with the Kyoto Protocol, arrangements for intergovernmental meetings, and administrative and financial matters. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM FCCC SB-12 INFORMAL MEETINGS, FRIDAY-SATURDAY, 9-10 JUNE 2000

    Delegates to the informal meetings met to conclude their work ahead of the twelfth sessions of the FCCC subsidiary bodies (SB-12). Informal meetings were convened on: compliance; guidelines under Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information); capacity building; land use, land-use change and forestry; policies and measures; and FCCC Article 4.8 and 4.9 and Protocol Article 3.14 (adverse effects). Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-10 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Thursday, the COP-10 high-level segment continued, with three panel discussions taking place, on: ‘Impacts of climate change, adaptation measures and sustainable development,’ ‘Technology and climate change,’ and ‘Mitigation of climate change: policies and their impacts.’ A contact group on the exchange of views on UNFCCC activities relevant to other intergovernmental meetings was also held. Throughout the day, senior-level informal discussion on the outstanding bracketed draft decisions and other issues also took place. Read More
  • BONN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE

    In the morning, an ADP Briefing took place, as well as an ADP Roundtable on Workstream 1 and a joint SBI/SBSTA in-forum workshop on response measures. In the afternoon, the ADP Workshop on Workstream 1 on Enhancing Adaptation through the 2015 Agreement convened. An event on quantified economy-wide emission reduction targets by developed countries and the second session of the Durban Platform on Capacity Building convened in the afternoon. In the evening, an informal SBI consultation was held. A number of SBSTA contact groups and informal groups also met throughout the day. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MEETINGS OF THE FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES, WEDNESDAY, 09 JUNE 1999

    The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) considered draft conclusions on the review process relating to greenhouse gas inventories and other matters related to methodological issues. Contact groups were convened on: the Protocol mechanisms; non-Annex I communications; Annex I communications; budget; and land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF). Read More
  • DOHA HIGHLIGHTS

    On Friday, delegates convened in contact groups, informal consultations and other meetings of the Convention and Protocol bodies throughout the day. In the evening, a COP/CMP stocktaking plenary convened. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-10 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Thursday, COP-10 delegates met in SBSTA plenary, contact groups and a SBSTA in-session workshop. SBSTA took up issues relating to the implementation of Protocol Article 2.3 (adverse effects of policies and measures) and scientific, technical and socioeconomic aspects of impacts of, and vulnerability and adaptation to, climate change (adaptation). Contact groups convened on: the report of the CDM Executive Board (EB); UNFCCC Article 6 (education, training and public awareness); adaptation; matters relating to the least developed countries (LDCs); submission of second, and where appropriate, third non-Annex I national communications; progress on the implementation of activities under decision 5/CP.7 (adverse effects); and technology transfer. In the afternoon, delegates met in an in-session workshop on practical opportunities and solutions for mitigation that contribute to sustainable development and technology innovation, deployment and diffusion. Read More
  • SB 26 HIGHLIGHTS

    The 26th sessions of the UNFCCC Subsidiary Bodies (SB 26) started on Monday morning. The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) considered agenda items on research and systematic observation , methodological issues , the Nairobi Work Programme on Impacts, Vulnerability and Adaptation , cooperation with relevant international organizations, mitigation , technology transfer , and reducing emissions from deforestation in developing countries . The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) took up issues such as arrangements for intergovernmental meetings , administrative, financial and institutional matters , national communications , education and public awareness , capacity building , adverse effects, response measures, and the financial mechanism . Read More
  • NINTH CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 1-12 DECEMBER 2003

    The Ninth Conference of the Parties (COP-9) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Nineteenth Sessions of the COP’s Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) open today at the Fiera Milano Congress Center in Milan, Italy. Read More
  • Bonn Climate Change Conference

    On Thursday, 4 June, the Bonn Climate Change Conference continued, with the ADP contact group taking stock of the work of the negotiating and facilitated groups. Facilitated groups took place on mitigation, and adaptation, and loss and damage in the afternoon, and on workstream 2 (pre-2020 ambition) and capacity building in the evening. Read More
  • COP 11 AND COP/MOP 1 HIGHLIGHTS

    The eleventh Conference of the Parties (COP 11) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the first Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (COP/MOP 1) opened in Montreal on Monday, 28 November. After a welcoming ceremony, the COP and COP/MOP addressed organizational matters and heard opening statements. In the afternoon, the subsidiary bodies began their twenty-third sessions. The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) considered organizational matters, adaptation, mitigation and methodological issues. The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) took up organizational issues, national communications, capacity building, and education, training and public awareness. Read More
  • UNFCCC SB-18 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Saturday, 7 June, and Monday, 9 June, Parties to the UNFCCC SB- 18 met in contact groups to continue their deliberations. On Saturday, they considered: the Special Climate Change Fund (SCCF); Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information), and 8 (review of information); capacity building; the IPCC TAR; and sinks in the CDM. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MEETINGS OF THE FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES, 20 OCTOBER 1997

    The seventh sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Implementa- tion (SBI-7) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technical Advice (SBSTA-7) of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) opened on 20 October 1997 in Bonn, Germany. Delegates to SBI-7 considered national communications from non-Annex I Parties and activities implemented jointly (AIJ). SBSTA-7 discussed AIJ, methodological issues, national communications from non- Annex I Parties and the roster of experts. Read More
  • COP 11 AND COP/MOP 1 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Thursday, the joint COP 11 and COP/MOP 1 high-level segment continued, with statements from 75 ministers and other high-level government officials. Delegates also convened for consultations on Protocol Articles 3.9 (future commitments) and 9 (review of the Protocol), the way forward under the UNFCCC, and adaptation. Read More
  • IPCC-22 HIGHLIGHTS

    The 22nd session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) met for its second day on Wednesday. In the morning, delegates continued discussions on scope, content and process for an AR4 Synthesis Report. In the afternoon, delegates discussed AR4 products and IPCC outreach. Contact groups on scope, content and process for an AR4 Synthesis Report and on the IPCC programme and budget also met. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 5 AND AWG-KP 7 HIGHLIGHTS

    The Bonn Climate Change Talks opened on Sunday afternoon with a welcoming ceremony , followed by the opening sessions of AWG-LCA 5 and AWG-KP 7 . Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MEETINGS OF THE FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES, TUESDAY, 8 JUNE 1999

    The morning meeting of the joint contact group on the Protocol mechanisms was interrupted by a second bomb threat to the Maritim Hotel. The contact group reconvened later in the morning and afternoon. The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) met in the afternoon to consider draft conclusions on research and systematic observation and the work programme on methodological issues. The Joint Working Group (JWG) on compliance met in the afternoon to consider a Co- Chair’s draft work programme. Contact groups were convened on non-Annex I communications and land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF). Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-6 PART II HIGHLIGHTS, WEDNESDAY, 25 JULY 2001

    Delegates to the resumed COP-6 met early evening in a delayed Plenary to formally adopt the political decision agreed by Ministers and other high-level officials on Monday, 23 July. They also discussed the organization of meetings during the remainder of the week. Following the Plenary, delegates convened in the negotiating groups on finance, compliance, mechanisms, and land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF). Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE THIRTEENTH CONFERENCE OF PARTIES TO THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE AND THIRD MEETING OF PARTIES TO THE KYOTO PROTOCOL: 3-15 DECEMBER 2007

    The United Nations Climate Change Conference in Bali was held from 3-15 December 2007. The conference involved a series of events, including the thirteenth Conference of the Parties (COP 13) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and third Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (COP/MOP 3) . These events drew over 10,800 participants, including more than 3500 government officials, 5800 representatives of UN bodies and agencies, intergovernmental organizations and non-governmental organizations, and nearly 1500 accredited members of the media. The COP and COP/MOP were assisted in their work by the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) and the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI), which convened for their 27th sessions from 3-12 December. In addition, the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol met for its resumed fourth session (AWG 4) from 3-15 December. Numerous contact groups and informal discussions were also arranged to help negotiations move forward. These meetings resulted in the adoption of 15 COP decisions and 13 COP/MOP decisions and the approval of a number of conclusions by the subsidiary bodies. These outcomes covered a wide range of topics, including finalizing the Adaptation Fund under the Protocol , a decision on reducing emissions from deforestation in developing countries , and outcomes on technology transfer, capacity building, the Kyoto Protocol’s flexible mechanisms, the adverse effects of combating climate change, national communications, financial and administrative matters , and various methodological issues. The main focus in Bali, however, was on long-term cooperation and the post-2012 period, when the Kyoto Protocol’s first commitment period expires. Negotiators spent much of their time seeking to agree on a two-year process - or Bali roadmap - to finalize a post-2012 regime by December 2009. Negotiations were conducted in a number of groups under the aegis of both the Convention and the Protocol. Under the Convention, the discussions focused on how to follow up on the Dialogue on long-term cooperative action to address climate change by enhancing implementation of the Convention. Under the Protocol, the AWG considered a timetable for determining Annex I commitments for the post-2012 period. Delegates also outlined a preparatory process for the second review of the Protocol under Article 9, and held discussions on the Russian proposal on voluntary commitments. Negotiations on these issues were only completed on Saturday afternoon, 15 December, 24 hours after the conference’s scheduled conclusion, when ministers and other high-level officials agreed to a series of outcomes that together comprise the Bali roadmap. These decisions provide guidance and direction for a series of meetings over the next two years under both the Convention and Protocol, with the aim of concluding a comprehensive framework for the post-2012 period at COP 15 and COP/MOP 5 in Copenhagen, Denmark, in 2009. In parallel with the negotiations, a joint COP and COP/MOP high-level segment was held from 12-14 December. This was attended by over 100 ministers and other high-level government officials. More than 200 side events were also held on a range of climate change topics. Reports on the side events are available at: http://www.iisd.ca/climate/cop13/enbots/ . Numerous relevant social events and activities, as well as some protests and demonstrations, were organized outside the conference venue. In Bali, parties to the Convention and the Protocol succeeded in honoring the call for a breakthrough that came from the UN Secretary-General’s climate change summit in September 2007. The Bali Conference launched far reaching negotiations with a clear deadline for the conclusion of an agreement on the post-2012 period. Bali was successful in delivering the expected mandate and building blocks for the post-2012 period - the Bali roadmap. Now it is up to everyone, negotiators, politicians, public opinion and media to play their respective parts - progress in negotiations, take action, keep up the pressure, and maintain vigilance - to ensure a successful outcome by 2009. This report summarizes the discussions, decisions and conclusions based on the agendas of the COP, COP/MOP and the subsidiary bodies, with a separate section on the negotiations and outcomes under the Bali roadmap. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-7 HIGHLIGHTS, TUESDAY, 6 NOVEMBER 2001

    Delegates to COP-7 met in SBSTA and SBI to adopt a number of draft decisions and conclusions. Negotiations also continued on mechanisms, compliance, and Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information). A late evening Plenary was held to take stock of progress. Read More
  • The 41st session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC-41)

    The 41st session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC-41) met from 24-27 February 2015 in Nairobi, Kenya. IPCC-41 had on its agenda the future work of the IPCC, including consideration of the recommendations by the Task Group on the Future Work of the IPCC, and a decision on size, structure and composition of the IPCC Bureau and any Task Force Bureau. IPCC-41 also addressed: procedural matters related to the designation of an acting chair; communication and outreach activities, including a proposal by Norway to convene an expert meeting; implementation of the IPCC Conflict of Interest Policy; and matters related to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and other international bodies. Approximately 200 people were in attendance. Prior to the opening of the session, IPCC Chair Rajendra Pachauri submitted a letter of resignation to UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. IPCC Vice-Chair Ismail El Gizouli was appointed as Acting Chair of the IPCC. The Panel adopted a set of decisions on the future work of the IPCC, including on: IPCC products, their timing and their usability; IPCC structure; respective roles of the IPCC Secretariat and the IPCC Technical Support Units; options for the selection of and support to Coordinating Lead Authors and Lead Authors; and improving the writing and review process. The decisions also address involvement of developing countries, including additional measures to attract qualified experts from developing countries and enhance and facilitate their engagement with the IPCC. Additionally, the Panel decided to hold an expert meeting on communications and outreach, as proposed by Norway, and a workshop on regional climate projections and their use in impacts and risk analysis studies. The Panel agreed that IPCC-42 would be held in Dubrovnik, Croatia, from 5-8 October 2015. Read More
  • CLIMATE CHANGE CONVENTION COP-1 HIGHLIGHTS:: TUESDAY, 4 APRIL 1995

    COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE The Chair opened the meeting and announced that he would report on the consultations on the location of the Permanent Secretariat, joint implementation, transfer of technology and the results of the drafting group on the budget. JOINT IMPLEMENTATION Estrada noted that there has been... Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE BONN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE, 3-14 JUNE 2013

    The Bonn Climate Change Conference, which took place in Germany from 3-14 June 2013, comprised the 38th sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA). The resumed second session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action (ADP 2) also convened. Approximately 1480 government delegates, 900 observers and 30 media representatives attended the meeting. Read More
  • GENEVA HIGHLIGHTS, Monday, 9 February 2015

    On Monday morning and afternoon, the ADP contact group on item 3 (implementation of all the elements of Decision 1/CP.17) convened. Read More
  • SB 36 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    The Bonn Climate Change Conference opened on Monday. In the morning and afternoon, opening plenaries of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) took place. Read More
  • LIMA HIGHLIGHTS

    On Thursday, 4 December, the ADP contact group on item 3 continued its deliberations. In the morning, negotiations on elements took place in two parallel sessions, addressing finance, mitigation, and cooperation and support. In the afternoon and evening, the contact group addressed the draft decision on advancing the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action. In the morning, a COP contact group addressed climate finance, and a joint SBI/SBSTA contact group discussed the impact of the implementation of response measures. Informal consultations took place under the SBSTA and SBI on a number of issues. Read More
  • COPENHAGEN HIGHLIGHTS

    On Wednesday morning, the COP/MOP plenary convened, followed by the opening of the high-level segment. The high-level segment continued into the evening with a number of Heads of State, Heads of Government and Ministers delivering national statements. Under the COP/MOP, contact groups on joint implementation and the CDM also took place in the afternoon and evening. The COP plenary took place in the evening. Read More
  • COPENHAGEN HIGHLIGHTS

    On Saturday morning, the COP and COP/MOP plenaries convened. In the afternoon and evening, the closing plenaries of the SBI and SBSTA took place. Throughout the day, contact groups and informal consultations convened on a range of issues, including mitigation, finance and technology under the AWG-LCA, Annex I emission reductions and other issues under the AWG-KP, and various topics under the COP/MOP, SBSTA and SBI. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-10 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Saturday, COP-10 delegates convened throughout the day in numerous contact groups, and met in an in-session workshop on the organization of the intergovernmental process in the afternoon. A COP contact group took up the report of the CDM Executive Board (EB). SBSTA contact groups addressed: small-scale afforestation and reforestation (A&R) project activities under the CDM; research and systematic observation (R&SO); issues relating to registry systems under Protocol Article 7.4; technology transfer; and good practice guidance (GPG) for LULUCF activities, harvested wood products (HWP) and other issues relating to LULUCF. In the evening, an SBI contact group addressed submission of second and, where appropriate, third national communications from non-Annex I Parties. The afternoon in-session workshop on the organization of the intergovernmental process addressed possible options for improving the organization of future sessional periods, to enable the UNFCCC process to maximize its efficiency and lead to more effective outcomes. Read More
  • UNITED NATIONS CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE IN POZNAN, 1-12 DECEMBER 2008

    The United Nations Climate Change Conference in Poznan, Poland , begins today and will continue until 12 December. The meeting includes the fourteenth Conference of the Parties (COP 14) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and fourth Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (COP/MOP 4) . In support of these two main bodies, four subsidiary bodies will convene: the fourth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA 4); the resumed sixth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP 6); and the twenty-ninth sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI 29) and Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA 29). A joint COP and COP/MOP high-level segment with government ministers and other senior officials will also take place from 11-12 December. Delegates will deliberate on a wide range of topics and agenda items. However, the primary focus will be on the post-2012 period, when the Kyoto Protocol s first commitment period expires. The negotiations in Poznan are the halfway mark towards the December 2009 deadline for agreeing on a framework for enhanced long-term global action against climate change. Read More
  • BONN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE, 3-14 June 2013

    The Bonn Climate Change Conference opens today at the Maritim Hotel in Bonn, Germany, and will continue until 14 June 2013. The meeting comprises the 38th sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI 38) and Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA 38), as well as the resumed second session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action (ADP 2-2). The SBI is expected to take up agenda items, including: national communications; nationally appropriate mitigation actions (NAMAs) by developing countries; matters related to the Kyoto Protocol s flexibility mechanisms; least developed countries; national adaptation plans; loss and damage; finance; technology; capacity building; response measures; and arrangements for intergovernmental meetings. The SBSTA is expected to consider, inter alia : the Nairobi work programme; reducing emissions from deforestation and degradation in developing countries, including conservation and enhancement of carbon stocks (REDD+); technology; research and systematic observation; response measures; agriculture; methodological issues under the Convention and the Kyoto Protocol; market and non-market mechanisms; and the 2013-2015 Review. The Subsidiary Bodies are mandated to hold a number of in-session workshops and events as well. The ADP session will be structured around roundtables and workshops. Parties will also consider further modalities for advancing the ADP work. Read More
  • UNFCCC SB-18 HIGHLIGHTS

    Delegates to UNFCCC SB-18 convened in a SBSTA plenary and in contact and informal groups on Thursday. The SBSTA considered methodological issues, including good practice guidance and other information on LULUCF, emissions resulting from fuel used in international aviation and maritime transportation, review of methodological work under the UNFCCC and Protocol, issues relating to reporting and review of Annex I greenhouse gas inventories, and issues relating to Protocol Articles 5 (methodological work), 7 (communication of information), and 8 (review of information). They also considered the development and transfer of technologies, research and systematic observation, and cooperation with relevant international organizations. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 5 AND AWG-KP 7 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Friday, AWG-LCA contact groups were held on mitigation , technology and finance , and adaptation . The AWG-KP convened contact groups on Annex I emission reductions and legal matters , and held various informal consultations. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 7 AND AWG-KP 9 HIGHLIGHTS

    Throughout Wednesday, various contact groups and informal consultations were held to consider adaptation, mitigation, finance, technology and capacity building under the AWG-LCA, as well as Annex I emission reductions and potential consequences under the AWG-KP. Read More
  • UNFCCC SB-20 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Thursday, Parties convened in an afternoon SBI Plenary and in contact groups. SBI adopted conclusions on UNFCCC Article 6 (education, training and public awareness), capacity building, LDCs, arrangements for intergovernmental meetings, and administrative and financial matters. Throughout the day, Parties met in the contact group on good practice guidance (GPG) on LULUCF. Contact groups also convened to agree on draft conclusions on scientific, technical and socioeconomic aspects of impacts of, and vulnerability and adaptation to, climate change, and scientific, technical and socioeconomic aspects of mitigation (adaptation and mitigation), and implementation of decision 5/CP.7 (implementation of UNFCCC Article 4.8 and 4.9 on adverse effects). Read More
  • GENEVA HIGHLIGHTS, Thursday, 12 February 2015

    On Thursday morning and afternoon, the ADP contact group on item 3 (implementation of all the elements of Decision 1/CP.17) convened. In the morning, informal consultations took place on streamlining. Read More
  • COP 14 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Saturday, the AWG-LCA convened a workshop on research and development of current, new and innovative technology . Contact groups and informal consultations also took place on many issues, including the Adaptation Fund, the AWG-KP, CCS under the CDM, decision 1/CP.10 (adaptation and response measures), the financial mechanism, adaptation and mitigation under the AWG-LCA , non-Annex I national communications, privileges and immunities, Protocol Articles 2.3 and 3.14 (adverse effects) and spillover effects. Read More
  • SB 28 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    On Friday, the AWG-LCA plenary convened in the morning to reflect on progress and agree on next steps. Contact groups and informal consultations convened on a range of issues, including adaptation under the AWG-LCA , capacity building, decision 1/CP.10 (Buenos Aires programme of work), non-Annex I communications, the financial mechanism, reducing emissions from deforestation in developing countries, and technology transfer. Also, an in-session workshop was held on the IPCC s Fourth Assessment Report (AR4) . Read More
  • COP 13 AND COP/MOP 3 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Thursday, the high-level segment continued, with statements from over 60 ministers and heads of delegation. In addition, ministerial and high-level informal consultations were held throughout the day on various elements of the Bali roadmap, and on technology transfer . Read More
  • CANCUN HIGHLIGHTS

    Throughout Monday, a number of contact groups and informal consultations convened under the COP, COP/MOP, AWG-LCA and AWG-KP. In addition, the fourth Focal Point Forum of the Nairobi work programme on impacts, vulnerability and adaptation (NWP) was held. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE BONN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE, 6-17 JUNE 2011

    The UN Climate Change Conference in Bonn, Germany took place from 6-17 June 2011. The conference included the 34th sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA). It also comprised the second part of the 16th session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP) and the second part of the 14th session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA). The conference drew around 3,500 participants. The first week of the conference centered on the agendas of the SBI and SBSTA. The provisional agendas of both bodies included new items based on parties proposals and Decision 1/CP.16 (outcome of the AWG-LCA s work). Many of the proposals proved controversial and parties spent the first three days discussing the agendas and organization of work. They eventually agreed to launch work on some agenda items while holding most of the proposed new agenda items in abeyance, pending further consultations. In the end, the SBSTA s closing plenary agreed to consider, at its next session, the proposed new item on impacts of climate change on water and integrated water resources management under the Nairobi work programme on impacts, vulnerability and adaptation. No agreement was reached on other proposed new items, such as blue carbon and rights of nature and the integrity of ecosystems, and a work programme on agriculture. Under the SBI, work was launched on new items on national adaptation plans, and loss and damage, the consideration of which was mandated by the Cancun Agreements. Proposed new agenda items relating to measuring, reporting and verification (MRV) remained in abeyance, but related work was undertaken under the AWG-LCA. Proposed new items related to the impacts of the implementation of response measures also featured prominently in the agenda discussions. As a result, the SBI and SBSTA Chairs convened a forum on the impact of the implementation of response measures organized as a contact group. The focus of the AWG-KP was on a second commitment period under the Kyoto Protocol, after the first commitment period expires at the end of 2012. Parties concentrated on outstanding political issues and conditionalities set by various Annex I countries for taking on new commitments during a second commitment period. Despite initial opposition from developing countries, parties also undertook technical work on issues, including land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF), the flexibility mechanisms and methodological issues. Progress made was captured in a revised proposal by the AWG-KP Chair (FCCC/KP/AWG/2011/CRP.1). Parties also agreed to suspend AWG-KP 16 and resume it during an intersessional meeting to be scheduled in September/October. Under the AWG-LCA, substantive work began, for the first time, based on Decision 1/CP.16. Parties worked in a single contact group and informal groups on adaptation, finance, technology, capacity building, shared vision, review of the global long-term goal, legal options, and diverse issues related to mitigation. While progress was made on some issues, many felt that the outcomes were relatively modest and a lot of work remains to be done before COP 17 in Durban, South Africa. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE 12TH SESSION OF WORKING GROUP I OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE (IPCC) AND THIRTY-SIXTH SESSION OF THE IPCC, 23-26 SEPTEMBER 2013

    The 12th session of Working Group I (WGI) of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the 36th session of the IPCC were held from 23-26 September 2013 in Stockholm, Sweden. The meeting was attended by more than 400 participants, including representatives from governments, the United Nations, and intergovernmental and observer organizations, and drew worldwide media attention. The WGI session focused on finalizing its contribution to the Fifth Assessment Report (AR5). The process to prepare the AR5 was launched by the IPCC in 2008. The WGI contribution is the first in the series of four reports with the WGII assessment on impacts, adaptation and vulnerability scheduled for finalization in March 2014; the WGIII contribution on options for mitigating climate change to be finalized in April 2014, and the AR5 Synthesis Report to be completed in October 2014. During the four-day meeting, delegates met in plenary, informally and in contact groups to consider the WGI contribution to the IPCC AR5 titled, ‘Climate Change 2013: The Physical Science Basis’. Delegates were assisted by short informal presentations by the Coordinating Lead Authors (CLAs) on various sections and topics of the Summary for Policymakers (SPM). At the end of the meeting, WGI approved the SPM and accepted the underlying report including the Technical Summary and annexes. Subsequently, the IPCC convened to formally adopt the work by WGI. The approved SPM can be found on the IPCC website http://ipcc.ch . Read More
  • UNFCCC SB 22 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Wednesday, delegates met in numerous contact groups and informal meetings throughout the day and into the evening. SBSTA contact groups and informal meetings were held on various issues, including technology transfer, mitigation, adaptation, emissions from aviation and maritime transport, research needs relating to the Convention, and Small Island Developing States and the Mauritius Strategy. SBI contact groups and informal meetings were held to discuss the submission of non-Annex I communications, the Special Climate Change Fund (SCCF), and LDCs. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE TWELFTH SESSION OF WORKING GROUP III OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE (IPCC) AND THE THIRTY-NINTH SESSION OF THE IPCC, 7-12 APRIL 2014

    The 12th session of Working Group III (WGIII-12) of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the 39th session of the IPCC (IPCC-39) were held from 7-12 April 2014 in Berlin, Germany. The meeting was attended by more than 605 participants, including government representatives from 107 countries as well as representatives from the UN and intergovernmental and observer organizations, and drew worldwide media attention. During the six-day meeting, delegates met in plenary and informally to consider the WGIII contribution to the IPCC Fifth Assessment Report (AR5) on mitigation of climate change. Participants were assisted by short presentations by the Coordinating Lead Authors on various sections of and topics related to the Summary for Policymakers (SPM). At the end of the meeting, WGIII approved the SPM and accepted the underlying report, including the Technical Summary and annexes. The SPM consists of an introduction and four main parts. SPM.1 is the introductory section. It sets out the role of the IPCC, the structure of the report and the degree of certainty behind the report’s findings. Section SPM.2 examines various approaches to climate change mitigation. SPM.3 reviews trends in stocks and flows of greenhouse gases (GHGs) and their drivers. Section SPM.4 discusses mitigation pathways and measures in the context of sustainable development, including long-term mitigation pathways, and sectoral and cross-sectoral mitigation pathways and measures. This includes an examination of: energy supply; energy end-use sectors (transport, buildings, and industry); agriculture, forestry and other land use (AFOLU); and human settlements, infrastructure and spatial planning. The final section of the report is SPM.5, which addresses mitigation policies and institutions, with a focus on sectoral and national policies and international cooperation. The SPM also contains nine figures and two tables to help explain the trends and concepts that it addresses. After the conclusion of WGIII’s session on Saturday, 12 April, IPCC-39 re-convened to formally accept the actions of the working group with regard to the approval of its SPM, and to discuss other matters. The approved SPM and its underlying report can be found on the IPCC website http://www.ipcc.ch . Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE FCCC AD HOC GROUP ON THE BERLIN MANDATE 31 JULY 1997

    The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technical Advice (SBSTA) heard reports from the contact group chairs and discussed cooperation with intergovernmental organizations and the development and transfer of technologies. The Ad Hoc Group on Article 13 (AG13) discussed the draft report on the session in a morning meeting. The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) met in the afternoon to discuss matters arising from the UN General Assembly Special Session (UNGASS), mechanisms for consultations with NGOs and national communications. Contact groups met throughout the day on the financial mechanism, communications from non-Annex I Parties, division of labor between SBSTA and SBI and arrangements for COP-3 and COP-4. Informal consultations on the budget were held in the evening. Read More
  • WARSAW HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning, the COP plenary convened. The CMP and SBSTA plenaries took place in the afternoon. Throughout the day, a number of contact groups, informal consultations, workshops and other events convened under the COP, SBI, SBSTA and ADP. These included: second meeting of the structured expert dialogue on the 2013-2015 Review; ADP workshop on lessons learned from relevant experiences of other multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs); ADP open-ended consultations on elements of the 2015 agreement; ADP open-ended consultations on workstream 2; a SBSTA/SBI contact group on the 2013-2015 Review; and a COP contact group on issues related to finance. Read More
  • UNFCCC SB 22 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Thursday evening, delegates convened in an SBI Plenary to adopt draft conclusions and decisions agreed in contact groups and informal consultations. Work on most outstanding SBI agenda items was concluded. In addition, numerous SBSTA and SBI contact groups and informal meetings were held throughout the day and into the evening. SBSTA contact groups and informal meetings took place on technology transfer, mitigation, adaptation, SIDS, emissions from aviation and maritime transport, and the IPCC report on safeguarding the ozone layer and global climate system. SBI contact groups and informal meetings were held on LDCs and the budget for 2006-2007. Read More
  • DOHA HIGHLIGHTS

    On Wednesday, delegates convened in plenary meetings of the CMP, COP and SBI. Contact groups and informal consultations of the Convention and Protocol bodies also took place throughout the day. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE PANAMA CITY CLIMATE CHANGE TALKS, 1-7 OCTOBER 2011

    The UN Climate Change Conference took place from 1-7 October 2011 in Panama City, Panama. The conference included the third part of the 16th session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP) and the third part of the 14th session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA). The conference drew approximately 1,836 participants. The focus of the AWG-KP was on a second commitment period under the Kyoto Protocol, after the first commitment period expires at the end of 2012. Parties concentrated on outstanding issues and further clarifying the options concerning mitigation targets, the possible nature and content of rules for a second commitment period, and the role of a possible second commitment period within a balanced outcome in Durban. Progress made was captured in a revised proposal by the AWG-KP Chair (FCCC/KP/AWG/2011/CRP.2/Rev.1). Parties also agreed to suspend AWG-KP 16 and resume it in Durban, South Africa, in December. Under the AWG-LCA, parties engaged in extended procedural discussions, based on Decision 1/CP.16 and the Bali Action Plan. Parties worked in a single contact group and informal groups on adaptation, finance, technology, capacity building, shared vision, review of the global long-term goal, legal options, and diverse issues related to mitigation. The outcome for most of the informal group discussions was some form of text forwarded to Durban as a basis for further discussions. Parties agreed to work intersessionally to further streamline the text and incorporate submissions. Progress was made on some issues, however many felt that the outcomes were relatively modest and a lot of work remains to be done in Durban. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 7 AND AWG-KP 9 HIGHLIGHTS

    Throughout Wednesday, various contact groups convened to consider adaptation, technology, mitigation and finance under the AWG-LCA, and Annex I emission reductions and other issues under the AWG-KP. Read More
  • IPCC-24 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Saturday, delegates completed line-by-line consideration of the draft SPM in plenary and closed the eighth session of WGIII after agreeing to the revised text of the SPM and accepting its underlying scientific and technical assessment. In the morning, delegates finished deliberations on a section of the SPM concerned with the costs of CCS and its economic potential. In the afternoon, evening and into the night, delegates considered sections on: risks of CCS; legal issues associated with storage; implications for emission inventories and accounting; and the public perception of CCS. Delegates also resolved outstanding issues after discussions in several informal contact groups and in informal consultations. Co-Chair Metz closed the meeting at 1:15 am on Sunday morning. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 14 AND AWG-KP 16 HIGHLIGHTS

    The UN Climate Change Conference continued on Tuesday. In the morning, the AWG-KP contact group on Annex I parties further commitments convened. Informal and spin-off groups convened throughout the day under the AWG-LCA and AWG-KP. Under the AWG-LCA, informal groups took place on developed country mitigation, developing country NAMAs, the Review, REDD+, legal options, capacity-building, finance, adaptation, shared vision, and technology transfer. Under the AWG-KP spin-off groups convened on Annex I emission reductions, LULUCF, other issues and potential consequences. South Africa, the incoming COP presidency of COP 17 and COP/MOP 7, conducted an open-ended informal consultation for stakeholders in the afternoon. Read More
  • DOHA HIGHLIGHTS

    The United Nations Climate Change Conference in Doha, Qatar, opened on Monday morning, 26 November. Following an opening ceremony, delegates gathered for the opening plenary meetings of the COP, CMP, SBI and SBSTA. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE WORKSHOP OF THE CONSULTATIVE GROUP OF EXPERTS ON NATIONAL COMMUNICATIONS FROM NON-ANNEX I PARTIES: 10-11 APRIL 2002

    The workshop of the Consultative Group of Experts (CGE) on national communications from non-Annex I Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) was held from 10-11 April 2002 in Bonn, Germany. More than 40 delegates attended the session, including expert representatives of governments and intergovernmental organizations. Read More
  • SB 28 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    On Monday, contact groups and informal consultations were held on a range of issues, including a shared vision and mitigation under the AWG-LCA , the mechanisms and LULUCF under the AWG-KP, carbon capture and storage, decision 1/CP.10 (Buenos Aires programme of work), review of the financial mechanism, non-Annex I communications, reducing emissions from deforestation in developing countries , and technology transfer. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE FIFTH SESSION OF THE AD HOC WORKING GROUP ON LONG-TERM COOPERATIVE ACTION AND THE SEVENTH SESSION OF THE AD HOC WORKING GROUP ON FURTHER COMMITMENTS FOR ANNEX I PARTIES UNDER THE KYOTO, 29 MARCH - 8 APRIL 2009

    The fifth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (AWG-LCA 5) and the seventh session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP 7) took place from 29 March to 8 April 2009 in Bonn, Germany. Approximately 2600 participants attended the meeting, representing governments, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations, academia, the private sector and the media. The main objective of the session was to work towards negotiating text under both AWGs. AWG-LCA 5 concentrated on the key elements of the Bali Action Plan (decision 1/CP.13) , namely mitigation, adaptation, finance and technology, as well as on a shared vision for long-term cooperative action under the Convention. Chair Michael Zammit Cutajar (Malta) had prepared a note to focus negotiations on the fulfillment of the Bali Action Plan and on the components of the agreed outcome (FCCC/AWGLCA/2009/4, Parts I and II ), which he first presented during a pre-sessional event on Friday, 27 March. Discussions at AWG-LCA 5 focused on further elaborating elements for a draft negotiating text to be prepared by the Chair for the next AWG-LCA session in June 2009. After the meeting, many felt that the AWG-LCA process was on track and that it has completed the final stage of clarifying ideas and options to be included in a negotiating text for the June session. While the content is still somewhat abstract and general, the form of some issues, such as those related to nationally appropriate mitigation actions (NAMAs) and a framework for adaptation, has begun to take shape. The focus in the AWG-KP 7 was on emission reductions by Annex I parties under the Kyoto Protocol beyond 2012, and on legal issues, including possible amendments to the Protocol. The AWG-KP also considered the flexibility mechanisms, land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF), and potential consequences of response measures. Its discussions were structured around four notes ( FCCC/KP/AWG/2009/3 and 4 ; FCCC/KP/AWG/2009/INF.1 and 2 ) prepared by Chair Harald Dovland (Norway) and presented during a pre-sessional event on Friday, 27 March. The AWG-KP reached agreement on a request to its Chair to prepare two documents for the June session: a proposal for Protocol amendments under Article 3.9 (Annex I parties further commitments) and a text on other issues, such as LULUCF and the flexibility mechanisms. Many felt that this will signify a shift to a full negotiating mode. There were, however, some protracted discussions on the AWG-KP s mandate and many developing countries expressed disappointment at the lack of agreement on the aggregate range of emissions reductions for Annex I parties in the post-2012 period. The AWG-LCA and AWG-KP are scheduled to conclude their work by the fifteenth Conference of the Parties (COP 15) to be held in Copenhagen, Denmark, in December 2009. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE DURBAN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE, 28 NOVEMBER - 11 DECEMBER 2011

    The United Nations Climate Change Conference in Durban, South Africa, was held from 28 November 11 December 2011. The conference involved a series of events, including the seventeenth session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 17) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the seventh meeting of the Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (CMP 7). In support of these two main bodies, four other bodies convened: the resumed 14th session of the Ad hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA); the resumed 16th session of the Ad hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP); and the 35th sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA). The Conference drew over 12,480 participants, including over 5400 government officials, 5800 representatives of UN bodies and agencies, intergovernmental organizations and civil society organizations, and more than 1200 members of the media. The meetings resulted in the adoption of 19 COP decisions and 17 CMP decisions and the approval of a number of conclusions by the subsidiary bodies. These outcomes cover a wide range of topics, notably the establishment of a second commitment period under the Kyoto Protocol, a decision on long-term cooperative action under the Convention, the launch of a new process towards an agreed outcome with legal force applicable to all parties to the Convention, and the operationalization of the Green Climate Fund. After the frustrations at the Copenhagen conference and the struggle to rescue the multilateral climate regime in Cancun, negotiators in Durban turned a corner and not only resuscitated the Kyoto Protocol but, in doing so, adopted a decision that will lead to negotiations on a more inclusive 21st century climate regime. There was a strong sense that elements of the Durban package, guided by a need to fulfill long overdue commitments that go back to the Bali Roadmap, restored sufficient momentum for a new negotiation process, one that will continue to witness a series of differentiated interests across and within the traditional lines of division between developed and developing countries. Many welcomed the adoption decisions including on the Green Climate Fund, and the Durban Platform, as well as the process to launch an agreement with legal force, while others continued to insist on the urgent need to significantly scale up the level of ambition to address the gap between existing mitigation pledges and the needed emission reductions recommended by science. This report summarizes the discussions, decisions and conclusions based on the agendas of the COP, CMP and the subsidiary bodies. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM FCCC SB-13 INFORMAL MEETINGS, MONDAY, 4 SEPTEMBER 2000

    The week of informal meetings preceding the formal thirteenth sessions of the subsidiary bodies (SB-13) of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) began on Monday, 4 September, with an initial briefing by the Chairs of the subsidiary bodies and the Executive Secretary of the FCCC Secretariat. Following this, informal meetings were convened to consider: guidelines under Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information); the Kyoto Protocol mechanisms; and land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF). Read More
  • SB 30 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning and afternoon, the AWG-LCA met in an informal plenary . Throughout the day, various contact groups and informal consultations took place under the AWG-KP, SBI and SBSTA. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE THIRD CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UNITED NATIONS FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE 8 DECEMBER 1997

    Delegates to the Third Conference of the Parties (COP-3) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) met in a high-level segment attended by ministers and other heads of delegation. The Committee of the Whole (COW) met in the afternoon to continue discussions on the negotiating text. Read More
  • BANGKOK CLIMATE TALKS HIGHLIGHTS

    On Sunday morning, the AWG-LCA workshop on quantified economy-wide emission reduction targets by developed country parties took place. In the afternoon the AWG-LCA workshop to further the understanding of the diversity of NAMAs by developing country parties, underlying assumptions, and any support needed for implementation of these actions was held. Read More
  • GENEVA HIGHLIGHTS, Tuesday, 10 February 2015

    Throughout the day, the ADP contact group on item 3 convened. In parallel, the Technical Examination Process (TEP) under ADP workstream 2 (pre-2020 ambition) took place. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM FCCC SB-13, THURSDAY, 14 SEPTEMBER 2000

    Contact groups met throughout the day to consider: the mechanisms; land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); technology transfer; adverse effects; capacity building; and guidelines under Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information). The Joint Working Group on Compliance convened to continue discussions on the Co- Chairs’ text. A special meeting on LULUCF and the CDM was also held. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM FCCC SB-13, WEDNESDAY, 13 SEPTEMBER 2000

    Contact groups met throughout the day to consider: adverse effects; technology transfer; capacity building; land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); policies and measures; the mechanisms; and guidelines under Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information). The Joint Working Group on Compliance convened to continue discussions on the Co-Chairs’ text. Informal consultations on guidance to the financial mechanism were also held. Read More
  • UNFCCC SB-18 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Wednesday, delegates to UNFCCC SB-18 continued to meet in a number of contact and informal groups. Parties discussed: Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information), and 8 (review of information); sinks in the CDM; ‘good practices’ in policies and measures (P&Ms); capacity building; the Special Climate Change Fund (SCCF); the programme budget for the biennium 2004-2005; and UNFCCC Article 4.8 and 4.9 (adverse effects). Informal consultations were also held throughout the day on several issues, including the IPCC TAR. Read More
  • INC-11 HIGHLIGHTS: MONDAY, 13 FEBRUARY 1995

    On Monday morning, the Plenary first heard reports on progress to date and then discussed the designation of the Permanent Secretariat and arrangements for its functioning. Working Group I met to discuss subsidiary bodies. In the afternoon, a plethora contact and drafting groups met throughout the UN basement. Read More
  • AWG 4 AND DIALOGUE 4 HIGHLIGHTS

    The fourth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (AWG 4) and the fourth workshop under the Dialogue on long-term cooperative action to address climate change by enhancing implementation of the Convention (Convention Dialogue) opened in Vienna, Austria, on Monday morning with a welcoming ceremony and speeches. These were followed by the opening session of the AWG . In the afternoon, the Convention Dialogue convened to consider building blocks for long-term cooperative action on climate change. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS OF FCCC COP-2: THURSDAY, 11 JULY 1996

    The fourth day of the Second Conference of the Parties (COP- 2) to the Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) commenced with meetings of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA). SBSTA contact groups met all day, while the Ad Hoc Group on the Berlin Mandate (AGBM) met in the afternoon. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE THIRD CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UNITED NATIONS FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE, 4 DECEMBER 1997

    Delegates to the Third Conference of the Parties (COP-3) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) met in negotiating groups in the morning and afternoon. The groups continued their discussions on quantified emission limitation and reduction objectives (QELROs), sinks, policies and measures (P&Ms), advancing the implementation of Article 4.1 (commitments) and institutions and mechanisms. The Committee of the Whole (COW) met in an evening ‘stock-taking’ Plenary session. Read More
  • SB 28 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    On Tuesday, contact groups and informal consultations were held on a range of issues, including long-term cooperative action under the AWG-LCA , the flexible mechanisms and other issues under the AWG-KP, carbon capture and storage, review of the financial mechanism, non-Annex I communications, reducing emissions from deforestation in developing countries , and technology transfer. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-7 HIGHLIGHTS, WEDNESDAY, 7 NOVEMBER 2001

    The High-Level Segment of COP-7 opened in the morning with speeches from representatives of UN bodies and specialized agencies, and a welcoming ceremony. It continued in the afternoon and evening with presentations from youth representatives and statements from 44 ministers and other heads of delegation. Negotiations also continued on the mechanisms, Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information), and LDCs. Read More
  • TWENTY-EIGHTH SESSIONS OF THE UNFCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES & SESSIONS OF THE AD HOC WORKING GROUPS, 2-13 JUNE 2008

    From 2-13 June, several meetings are taking place in Bonn, Germany, as part of ongoing negotiations under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and Kyoto Protocol. The twenty-eighth sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) and the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) of the UNFCCC will be held from 4-13 June. In addition, the second session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA 2), and the resumed fifth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP 5) will be held from 2-12 June. These meetings are part of ongoing discussions to enhance international cooperation on climate change, including for the period after 2012, when the Kyoto Protocol s first commitment period expires. At AWG-LCA 2, three workshops will be held to help delegates address key issues such as adaptation, finance, and technology. The AWG-KP will include a roundtable on means for Annex I countries to reach emission reduction targets and a workshop on methodological issues. SBI will consider such issues as capacity building, technology transfer and preparations for the second review of the Protocol under Article 9, while SBSTA s agenda includes items on technology and reducing emissions from deforestation in developing countries. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE TENTH CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 6-18 DECEMBER 2004

    The tenth Conference of the Parties (COP-10) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the twenty-first sessions of the COP’s Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) and Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) were held at La Rural Exhibition Center in Buenos Aires, Argentina, from 6-18 December 2004. Over 6100 participants from 167 governments, two observer States, 272 intergovernmental, non-governmental and other observer organizations, and 240 media outlets were in attendance. During the meeting, Parties addressed and adopted numerous decisions and conclusions on various issues, including: technology transfer; issues relating to land use, land-use change and forestry; the UNFCCC’s financial mechanism; Annex I national communications; capacity building; adverse effects and adaptation; and UNFCCC Article 6 (education, training and public awareness). Read More
  • CANCUN HIGHLIGHTS

    The UN Climate Change Conference in Cancun opened on Monday. In the morning and afternoon, the opening plenary of the Conference of the Parties (COP) took place. In the afternoon, opening plenaries of the Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (COP/MOP), the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the UNFCCC (AWG-LCA) and the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments by Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP) convened. In the evening, the AWG-LCA contact group on preparation of an outcome for COP 16 and the AWG-KP contact group on Annex I further commitments met. Read More
  • BONN CLIMATE CHANGE TALKS, 10-14 AUGUST 2009

    From 10-14 August 2009, the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP) and the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA) are holding intersessional informal consultations in Bonn, Germany, as part of ongoing negotiations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Kyoto Protocol. The two AWGs are scheduled to conclude their work by the fifteenth session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 15) to be held in Copenhagen, Denmark, in December 2009. At the informal session, the AWG-LCA is expected to concentrate on a revised negotiating text, which compiles inputs from parties (FCCC/AWGLCA/2009/INF.1) . The text encompasses the key aspects of the Bali Action Plan (decision 1/CP.13) , namely a shared vision for long-term cooperative action, mitigation, adaptation, finance and technology. The expected outcome from the informal session will be a further revision of the text, reflecting consideration by parties. In addition, AWG-LCA Chair Michael Zammit Cutajar (Malta) is planning to consult informally on the legal form of the outcome and further organization of work. To facilitate negotiations under the AWG-KP, Chair John Ashe (Antigua and Barbuda) has prepared documentation for the informal session, building upon the work of AWG-KP 8 in June 2009. The documentation covers: proposed amendments to the Kyoto Protocol pursuant to Article 3.9 (Annex I parties further commitments) (FCCC/KP/AWG/2009/10/Add.1) ; other proposed amendments to the Kyoto Protocol (FCCC/KP/AWG/2009/10/Add.2) ; a compilation of proposals for elements of draft decisions on other issues, such as land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF) and the flexibility mechanisms (FCCC/KP/AWG/2009/10/Add.3) ; and a compilation of proposals by parties for aggregate and individual figures for Annex I parties (FCCC/KP/AWG/2009/10/Add.4) . Read More
  • FORTIETH SESSION OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE, 27-31 OCTOBER 2014

    The 40th session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC-40) will meet from 27-31 October 2014 at the Tivoli Conference Center in Copenhagen, Denmark, to consider and finalize the Synthesis Report (SYR), which integrates and synthesizes the findings from the three Working Group (WG) reports. Together, these comprise the IPCC’s Fifth Assessment Report (AR5). The Panel will approve, line by line, the SYR Summary for Policymakers (SPM) and adopt the draft SYR. More than 800 authors and review editors from 85 countries have participated in the preparation of AR5 over the past six years. In addition to approving the SPM and adopting the SYR, IPCC-40 will address, inter alia : the IPCC programme and budget through 2017; future work of the IPCC; communication and outreach activities; a request for a technical report on climate change, food and agriculture; and implementation of the IPCC conflict of interest (COI) policy. The third meeting of the Task Group on the Future Work of the IPCC (TGF) met immediately prior to IPCC-40 on 26 October to consider, among other things, the refined Options Paper prepared by the Task Group Co-Chairs. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 7 AND AWG-KP 9 HIGHLIGHTS

    Throughout Thursday, various contact groups and informal consultations were held to consider capacity building, mitigation, adaptation and finance under the AWG-LCA. Informal consultations also took place under the AWG-KP on Annex I emission reductions and other issues. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-7 HIGHLIGHTS, FRIDAY, 2 NOVEMBER 2001

    Delegates to COP-7 met in a morning Plenary session to hear progress reports from the chairs of the subsidiary bodies and the negotiating groups, and to consider input to the World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD). In the afternoon and evening, the negotiating group on mechanisms resumed its work, and drafting groups met on mechanisms, compliance and Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information). In addition, informal groups met on a number of issues, including the Consultative Group of Experts (CGE). Read More
  • AWG-LCA 12 AND AWG-KP 14 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Thursday, various drafting groups convened under the AWG-LCA to consider shared vision, adaptation, mitigation, and finance, technology and capacity building. Contact groups and informal discussions under the AWG-KP addressed potential consequences, legal matters, Annex I emission reductions and LULUCF. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE TENTH SESSION OF THE FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES: 31 MAY – 11 JUNE 1999

    The subsidiary bodies to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) held their tenth sessions at the Maritim Hotel in Bonn, Germany, from 31 May - 11 June 1999, and began the process of fulfilling the Buenos Aires Plan of Action, which was adopted at the Fourth Conference of the Parties (COP-4) in November 1998. Under the Plan of Action, Parties set a two-year deadline for strengthening implementation of the FCCC and preparing for the future entry into force of the Kyoto Protocol. The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) considered topics such as Annex I communications, methodological issues and the development and transfer of technology. The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) discussed, inter alia, administrative and financial matters and non-Annex I communications. SBI and SBSTA jointly considered the mechanisms of the Kyoto Protocol, activities implemented jointly and compliance. Read More
  • SB 34 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning, the opening plenary of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) convened. The opening plenary of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) remained suspended throughout the day and was finally postponed until Tuesday, pending consultations on the agenda. Read More
  • Bonn Climate Change Conference

    The Bonn Climate Change Conference continued on Saturday, 6 June. ADP facilitated groups convened on: adaptation and mitigation in the morning; finance, technology, and implementation and compliance in the afternoon; and transparency in the evening. The TEM on accelerating energy efficiency action in urban environments continued in the morning. Read More
  • COPENHAGEN HIGHLIGHTS

    On Tuesday evening, the welcoming ceremony of the high-level segment took place. Late in the evening, the AWG-KP closing plenary convened. The AWG-LCA held its closing meeting early on Wednesday morning. Throughout the day on Tuesday, contact groups and informal consultations were held on a range of issues, including potential consequences and other issues under the AWG-KP, long-term cooperative action under the AWG-LCA and the Adaptation Fund Board under the COP/MOP. Read More
  • TWELFTH SESSIONS OF THE SUBSIDIARY BODIES OF THE FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE, 5-16 JUNE 2000

    The twelfth sessions of the subsidiary bodies (SB-12) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) will take place from 12-16 June 2000 in Bonn, Germany, preceded by one week of informal meetings scheduled for 5-10 June. Delegates to SB-12 and the informal meetings will work toward fulfilling the Buenos Aires Plan of Action (BAPA) adopted at the Fourth Conference of the Parties (COP-4) in November 1998. Under the BAPA, Parties set a two-year deadline for strengthening FCCC implementation and preparing for the future entry into force of the Kyoto Protocol. The Sixth Conference of the Parties (COP-6), scheduled to take place from 13-24 November 2000, in The Hague, the Netherlands, will mark the culmination of this two-year process. Read More
  • WORKSHOP ON LAND USE, LAND-USE CHANGE AND FORESTRY, MONDAY, 10 JULY 2000

    The workshop on land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF) began with opening speeches and an overview of key issues raised in the IPCC Special Report on LULUCF. Participants then considered afforestation, reforestation and deforestation (ARD) under Article 3.3 of the Kyoto Protocol in morning and afternoon sessions. Read More
  • MEETINGS OF THE SUBSIDIARY BODIES TO THE FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE 20 - 30 OCTOBER 1997

    The seventh sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI-7) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technical Advice (SBSTA-7) will open on Monday, 20 October 1997 at the Beethovenhalle in Bonn, Germany. The eighth session of the Ad Hoc Group on the Berlin Mandate (AGBM-8) will open on Wednesday, 22 October. Read More
  • Bonn Climate Change Conference

    The Bonn Climate Change Conference continued on Friday, 5 June. ADP facilitated groups convened on: finance and technology in the morning; timeframes, implementation and compliance, and capacity building in the afternoon; and workstream 2 (pre-2020 ambition) and transparency in the evening. The TEM on accelerating energy efficiency in urban environments took place in the afternoon. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-6 HIGHLIGHTS, TUESDAY, 14 NOVEMBER 2000

    Delegates to COP-6 and the resumed SB-13 convened in contact groups during morning, afternoon and evening sessions to discuss text and advance discussions on: land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); guidelines under Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information); adverse effects; ‘best practices’ in policies and measures; development and transfer of technologies; mechanisms; and capacity building in economies in transition. The Joint Working Group on Compliance (JWG) also met to resume its consideration of negotiating text. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM FCCC SB-12, MONDAY, 12 JUNE 2000

    On the opening day of the twelfth sessions of the FCCC subsidiary bodies (SB-12), delegates met in a morning session of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) to discuss land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF), and guidelines under Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information). The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) considered Annex I and non- Annex I communications, the financial mechanism, and administrative and financial matters. In the afternoon, a joint SBI/SBSTA session addressed issues relating to adverse effects, compliance and the mechanisms. Contact groups were convened to continue consideration of LULUCF, adverse effects, Protocol Articles 5, 7 and 8, and the mechanisms. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 11 AND AWG-KP 13 HIGHLIGHTS

    Delegates met in contact groups and informal meetings to exchange views and negotiate on a range of issues. Under the AWG-LCA, meetings were held on shared vision, mitigation, adaptation, and financing. Under the AWG-KP, meetings were held on Annex I emissions reductions, LULUCF, mechanisms and methodological issues. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE TWENTIETH SESSIONS OF THE SUBSIDIARY BODIES OF THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 16-25 JUNE 2004

    The twentieth sessions of the Subsidiary Bodies (SB-20) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) took place at the Maritim Hotel in Bonn, Germany, from 16-25 June 2004. Approximately 1,350 participants from 161 governments, one observer State, and 134 intergovernmental, non-governmental and other observer organizations and media outlets were in attendance. Throughout the meeting, Parties convened in plenary sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) and the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI), as well as in several contact groups and informal consultations. At SB-20, Parties adopted numerous conclusions and forwarded draft decisions for deliberation at COP-10. In particular, SBSTA considered methodological issues, including: small-scale afforestation and reforestation project activities under the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM); good practice guidance on land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); greenhouse gas inventories; emissions from fuel used for international aviation and maritime transport; and issues relating to Protocol Articles 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information). Parties also discussed scientific, technical and socioeconomic aspects of impacts of, and vulnerability and adaptation to, climate change, and scientific, technical and socioeconomic aspects of mitigation. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-9 HIGHLIGHTS

    Parties to COP-9 continued their deliberations in COP and SBI Plenary meetings, and in several contact groups and informal meetings. The COP considered national communications from Annex I Parties, and the report of the CDM Executive Board (EB). The SBI met in the afternoon to take up organizational matters related to its agenda, non- Annex I national communications and progress on the implementation of decision 5/CP.7 (implementation of UNFCCC Article 4.8 and 4.9 on adverse effects). SBI contact groups met on the programme budget for 2004-5 and the Special Climate Change Fund (SCCF). SBSTA contact groups were held on LULUCF good practice guidance, the IPCC Third Assessment Report (TAR), methodological work and development and transfer of technology. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE WARSAW CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE, 11-23 NOVEMBER 2013

    The Warsaw Climate Change Conference took place from 11-23 November 2013 in Poland. It included the 19th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 19) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the ninth session of the Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (CMP 9). The conference also included meetings of three subsidiary bodies: the 39th sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA 39) and the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI 39), and the third part of the second session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action (ADP 2). Marking the second time that UN climate change negotiations have taken place in Poland, the conference drew over 8,300 participants, including 4,022 government officials, 3,695 representatives of UN bodies and agencies, intergovernmental organizations and civil society organizations, and 658 members of the media. Negotiations in Warsaw focused on the implementation of agreements reached at previous meetings, including pursuing the work of the Ad Hoc Working Group on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action. Concluding 27 hours after its scheduled closing time, the meeting adopted an ADP decision that invites parties to initiate or intensify domestic preparations for their intended nationally-determined contributions, and resolves to accelerate the full implementation of the Bali Action Plan and pre-2020 ambition. Parties also adopted a decision establishing the Warsaw international mechanism on loss and damage, and the ‘Warsaw REDD+ framework’, a series of seven decisions on REDD+ finance, institutional arrangements and methodological issues. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE UNFCCC TECHNICAL WORKSHOP ON INCREASING ECONOMIC RESILIENCE TO CLIMATE CHANGE AND REDUCING RELIANCE ON VULNERABLE ECONOMIC SECTORS THROUGH ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION, 28-30 APRIL 2009

    The UNFCCC Technical Workshop on Increasing Economic Resilience to Climate Change and Reducing Reliance on Vulnerable Economic Sectors through Economic Diversification took place from 28-30 April 2009, in Cairo, Egypt. The workshop was convened under the Nairobi Work Programme on impacts, vulnerability and adaptation to climate change (NWP). The event was organized in response to a request by the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Secretariat to hold such a technical workshop, before the 30th session of SBSTA, with a view to promoting understanding and the development and dissemination of measures, methodologies and tools for increasing economic resilience, including the understanding of social aspects. Read More
  • SIXTH CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE, MONDAY, 13 NOVEMBER 2000

    The Sixth Conference of the Parties (COP-6) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the resumed thirteenth sessions of the UNFCCC’s subsidiary bodies opened on Monday, 13 November, in The Hague, the Netherlands. Delegates met in the morning for a welcoming ceremony. This was followed by the opening COP-6 Plenary, during which Jan Pronk, Dutch Minister of Housing, Spatial Planning and the Environment, was elected COP-6 President. Participants then considered organizational matters, adopted the meeting’s agenda, and heard general statements by delegates. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM LULUCF WORKSHOP, WEDNESDAY, 12 JULY 2000

    Participants at the SBSTA workshop on land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF) met in morning and afternoon sessions to consider project-based activities and address general accounting, verification and reporting issues. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE THIRTY-SEVENTH SESSION OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE, 14-17 OCTOBER 2013

    The thirty-seventh session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC-37) was held from 14-17 October 2013 in Batumi, Georgia. The meeting was attended by 229 participants, from 92 countries, including representatives from governments, scientific experts and civil society. The Panel considered and adopted two methodology reports: ‘2013 Supplement to the 2006 IPCC Guidelines for National Greenhouse Gas Inventories: Wetlands’ and ‘2013 Revised Supplementary Methods and Good Practice Guidance Arising from the Kyoto Protocol’. The IPCC also undertook initial discussions on mapping the future of the IPCC and addressed a range of procedural matters. Convening in the midst of the finalization of its Fifth Assessment Report (AR5), the meeting addressed important issues in preparation for a significant period of the IPCC’s work, including communications, outreach, transparency, conflict of interest and programme matters. Read More
  • FCCC COP-5 HIGHLIGHTS, FRIDAY, 29 OCTOBER 1999

    Delegates met in a joint session of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) and the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) to take stock of progress in the Joint Working Group (JWG) on compliance and in the joint contact groups. The JWG on compliance discussed procedures and mechanisms relating to compliance under the Protocol. Contact groups met to consider: adverse effects; activities implemented jointly (AIJ); Annex I communications; capacity building; land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); national systems, adjustments and guidelines under the Protocol; non-Annex I communications; and the Protocol mechanisms. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-9 HIGHLIGHTS

    Delegates to COP-9 met Tuesday to adopt SBI and SBSTA conclusions and approve draft COP decisions. In the morning and afternoon, contact groups met to discuss non-Annex I national communications, implementation of decision 5/CP.7 (implementation of UNFCCC Article 4.8 and 4.9 on adverse effects), methodological work and sinks in the CDM. In the afternoon and evening, Parties convened in SBSTA and SBI Plenaries to adopt draft conclusions, with SBSTA completing its work. Informal consultations also took place throughout the day. Read More
  • UNFCCC SB-16 HIGHLIGHTS, THURSDAY, 13 JUNE 2002

    SBSTA met in morning and evening sessions to consider the draft conclusions on its agenda items. Parties agreed to conclusions on guidelines on reporting and review of greenhouse gas inventories from Annex I Parties, Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information), and 8 (review of information), activities implemented jointly (AIJ), development of good practice guidance and other information for LULUCF, and development of definitions and modalities for LULUCF under the CDM. They also adopted conclusions on technology transfer, efforts to protect the ozone layer and to safeguard the global climate system, policies and measures (P&Ms), UNFCCC Article 6 (education, training and public awareness), the special circumstances of Croatia under UNFCCC Article 4.6 (flexibility for EITs), issues relating to cleaner or less greenhouse gas-emitting energy, and implementation of Protocol Article 2.3 (adverse effects of P&Ms). Read More
  • WARSAW CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE, 11-22 NOVEMBER 2013

    The 2013 Warsaw Climate Change Conference opens today in Warsaw, Poland, and will continue until 22 November. The Conference includes the 19th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 19) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the 9th session of the Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (CMP 9). Three subsidiary bodies will also convene: the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI), the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) and the Ad Hoc Working Group on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action (ADP). The conference will consider various agenda items related to finance, mitigation, adaptation and technology. The COP will also hear a report from the ADP concerning progress made during the second year of its mandate to develop ‘a protocol, another legal instrument or an agreed outcome with legal force under the Convention applicable to all Parties’ by 2015 to enter into force no later than 2020. Read More
  • UN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE, 1-7 OCTOBER 2011

    The UN Climate Change Conference in Panama City begins today and is scheduled to conclude on 7 October 2011. The conference will include the third part of the 16th session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP) and the third part of the 14th session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA). The work of AWG-KP and AWG-LCA will continue based on agendas adopted during the UN Climate Change Conference in Bangkok, which took place from 3-8 April 2011. The AWG-KP s work will be undertaken in a contact group on further commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol, with work on specific issues in spin-off groups. The AWG-LCA will work on all agenda items in informal groups under the contact group, taking into account recommendations made at the June session in Bonn for focused in-depth work to facilitate progress on technical issues. Read More
  • INFORMAL EXCHANGE OF VIEWS AND INFORMATION ON COMPLIANCE UNDER THE KYOTO PROTOCOL: 6-7 OCTOBER 1999

    The informal exchange of views and information on compliance under the Kyoto Protocol to the Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) was held from 6-7 October 1999 at the Diplomatische Akademie in Vienna, Austria. The informal exchange was designed to facilitate deliberations on the development of a compliance system under the Kyoto Protocol. The workshop was organized by the Austrian Government in cooperation with the FCCC Secretariat and the Co-Chairs of the Joint Working Group on Compliance (JWG). Ninety-seven participants attended the meeting, including experts, representatives from governments, UN agencies, and intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations. Participants met in several sessions over two days to hear presentations from experts and discuss various issues related to compliance, including: compliance regimes under the Montreal Protocol, the Convention on Long-range Transboundary Air Pollution (LRTAP) and its protocols, the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the World Trade Organization (WTO); institutional issues such as facilitative and enforcement functions, eligibility to raise issues and information gathering; and issues related to the consequences of non-compliance. The Co-Chairs of the JWG will prepare a non-paper on elements of a compliance system based on discussions held during the workshop to be presented to the fifth Conference of the Parties to the FCCC. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE FOURTH UNFCCC CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES, 10 NOVEMBER 1998

    Draft decisions and conclusions were considered by the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA), the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and a joint SBSTA/SBI contact group and plenary. Delegates could not reach agreement and a number of decisions will be forwarded to the COP plenary with brackets. The joint session concluded at 4:10 am. Read More
  • REPORT OF THE MEETINGS OF THE FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES: 2 – 12 JUNE 1998

    The subsidiary bodies of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) met from 2-12 June 1998 in Bonn, Germany. These were the first formal FCCC meetings since the adoption of the Kyoto Protocol at the Third Conference of the Parties (COP-3) in December 1997. The eighth session of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA-8) agreed to draft conclusions on, inter alia, cooperation with relevant international organizations, methodological issues, and education and training. The eighth session of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) reached conclusions on, inter alia, national communications, the financial mechanism and the second review of adequacy of Annex I Party commitments. In its sixth session, the Ad Hoc Group on Article 13 (AG13) concluded its work on the functions of the Multilateral Consultative Process (MCP). Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE 30TH SESSION OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE, 21-23 APRIL 2009

    The 30th session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) was held from 21-23 April 2009 in Antalya, Turkey, with approximately 320 participants in attendance. During the meeting , the Panel focused mainly on the scoping process for the Fifth Assessment Report (AR5) with a view to providing guidance to the climate change experts who will define the outline of the AR5 during the AR5 scoping meeting to be held in Venice, Italy, from 13-17 July 2009. For this purpose, the Panel adopted a number of proposals on the near-term future of the IPCC and the scoping of the AR5 . The Panel also decided to proceed with the preparation of a Special Report on managing the risks of extreme events and disasters , and agreed to hold a number of expert meetings on topics such as human settlements and the detection and attribution of anthropogenic climate change. Other issues included the revised rules of procedure for the election of the IPCC Bureau and the Task Force Bureau , work on new scenarios and the IPCC Peace Prize Scholarship Fund . Most of the meeting outcomes will serve as guidance for the AR5 scoping meeting, while others will be taken up at the next session of the IPCC, to be held from 26-28 October in Bali, Indonesia. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE FOURTH UNFCCC CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES, 4 NOVEMBER 1998

    The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) and the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) considered the Kyoto Protocol’s flexibility mechanisms in a joint plenary and contact group. SBSTA debated development and transfer of technology, and research and systematic observation. SBI considered national communications, the financial mechanism and amendments to the FCCC Annexes. Read More
  • UNFCCC SB-18 HIGHLIGHTS

    The Eighteenth Sessions of the UNFCCC Subsidiary Bodies (SB-18) opened on Wednesday, 4 June, in Bonn, Germany. The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) convened in morning and evening sessions, and the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) met during the afternoon. The SBSTA addressed organizational matters, methodological issues, and the IPCC Third Assessment Report (TAR). The SBI took up organizational matters, implementation of UNFCCC Article 4.8 and 4.9 (adverse effects), and administrative and financial matters. Contact groups were held to discuss Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information), and sinks in the CDM. Read More
  • UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE:: YEAR-END UPDATE

    Although the second meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change will not take place until July 1996, there have been several intersessional meetings to report on since the first meeting of the COP in April 1995. This special year-end issue of the Earth Negotiations Bulletin will review these activities, summarize the results of the General Assembly’s consideration of the Convention, and highlight upcoming events. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 12 AND AWG-KP 14 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Friday, various drafting groups convened under the AWG-LCA to consider shared vision, adaptation, mitigation, and finance, technology and capacity building. Contact groups and informal discussions under the AWG-KP addressed potential consequences, LULUCF, mechanisms and Annex I emission reductions. The AWG-KP also met in an informal plenary in the afternoon to discuss elements of a balanced outcome in Cancun. Read More
  • AWG-LCA AND AWG-KP highlights

    Throughout Tuesday, several informal groups under the AWG-LCA and the AWG-KP met to discuss issues, including technology and capacity building, finance, mitigation, Annex I parties emission reductions, potential consequences, LULUCF and flexibility mechanisms. Read More
  • SB 24 & AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    On Thursday, SBI reconvened in plenary, concluding its work and adopting the report of the session. SBSTA met and adopted conclusions and/or draft decisions on many items, including several methodological issues, research and systematic observation, and reducing emissions from deforestation in developing countries. However, discussions on the five-year programme of work on adaptation continued late into Thursday night, and will be taken up in the SBSTA plenary on Friday. The AWG concluded its work very late on Thursday night after lengthy informal consultations by agreeing on text outlining the planning of future work. Read More
  • Bonn Climate Change Conference, 1-11 JUNE 2015

    Negotiations under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) open today in Bonn, Germany, and will continue until 11 June 2015. The forty-second sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI 42) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA 42), and the ninth part of the second session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action (ADP 2-9) will all convene. Read More
  • SUBSIDIARY BODY FOR IMPLEMENTATION

    On Friday morning, SBSTA took up agenda items on policies and measures, Kyoto Protocol Article 2.3 (adverse effects), cooperation with relevant international organizations and other matters. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM FCCC SB-12 INFORMAL MEETINGS, WEDNESDAY, 7 JUNE 2000

    Delegates to the informal meetings preceding SB-12 met to discuss: Protocol Article 3.14 (adverse effects); technology transfer; compliance; guidelines under Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information); and capacity building. They also convened for a briefing on the IPCC Special Report on Land Use, Land-Use Change and Forestry. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-7 HIGHLIGHTS, SATURDAY, 3 NOVEMBER 2001

    Delegates to COP-7 met in the negotiating groups on mechanisms and on Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information). In addition, drafting groups continued their work on the mechanisms, compliance, Articles 5, 7 and 8, and the Consultative Group of Experts (CGE), and informal groups met on a number of issues, including LDCs and the IPCC Third Assessment Report. On Saturday evening, the extended Bureau met to take stock of progress and decide on next steps. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE BONN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE, 20-25 OCTOBER 2014

    The sixth part of the second session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action (ADP 2-6) under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) took place in Bonn, Germany, from 20-25 October 2014. The ADP focused on preparing key documents for the 20th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 20) to the UNFCCC, scheduled to take place in Lima, Peru, in December 2014. Under the ADP’s workstream 1 (the 2015 agreement), countries continued to elaborate the elements of a draft negotiating text, which will serve as the foundation for the final construction of the 2015 agreement, and considered a ‘non-paper’ on parties’ views and proposals on the elements for a draft negotiating text (ADP.2014.6.NonPaper). The ADP also worked on a draft decision that captures the type of information countries will provide when they communicate their intended nationally determined contributions (INDCs) and how these contributions will potentially be considered (ADP.2014.7.DraftText). During the meeting, the ADP Co-Chairs prepared a new iteration of this draft decision, which will be submitted for consideration in Lima. Under workstream 2 (pre-2020 ambition), Technical Expert Meetings (TEMs) focused on: opportunities for action on non-carbon dioxide greenhouse gases (GHGs); carbon capture, use and storage; and follow up to TEMs on unlocking mitigation opportunities through energy efficiency, renewable energy, urban environment and land use improvements in the pre-2020 period. Countries also addressed a draft decision on pre-2020 ambition prepared by the Co-Chairs ahead of the meeting (ADP.2014.8.DraftText). During the meeting, a new iteration of this draft was issued and will be considered in Lima. Despite limited progress overall, as delegates left Bonn many appreciated that the meeting had provided much-needed space for more in-depth exchanges of views. Many felt the meeting helped clarify countries’ and groups’ understanding of the spectrum of views, possible areas of convergence and divergence, and what underlies their positions and how these concerns might be addressed in Lima in December. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MEETINGS OF THE FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES, 22 OCTOBER 1997

    The Ad Hoc Group on the Berlin Mandate opened its eighth session (AGBM-8) on 22 October 1997. Delegates gave opening statements in a morning Plenary session. In the afternoon, a ‘non-group’ meeting discussed policies and measures. The Chair of the AGBM held a briefing for observers. The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) discussed arrangements for intergovernmental meetings, administrative and financial matters, mechanisms for NGO consultations and legal matters. Read More
  • CONTACT GROUP ON ADP ITEM 3

    BONN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE On Tuesday, the contact group on ADP item 3 addressed workstream 1 (2015 agreement), with a focus on adaptation and finance. A TEM on carbon capture use and storage (CCUS) was held throughout the day. In the evening, the Co-Chairs held a special event with observers.... Read More
  • SECOND PART OF THE SBI CLOSING PLENARY

    COP/CMP STOCKTAKING PLENARY Welcoming ministers to Lima, COP 20/CMP 10 President Manuel Pulgar-Vidal reported on the successful launch of work under the COP and CMP, noting constructive engagement on the issue of climate finance, work underway on the CDM and consultations on the report of the June 2014 high-level ministerial... Read More
  • ARCELONA CLIMATE CHANGE TALKS, 2-6 NOVEMBER 2009

    From 2-6 November 2009, the second part of the seventh session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (AWG-LCA 7) and the second part of the ninth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP 9) are taking place in Barcelona, Spain. These sessions form part of ongoing negotiations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Kyoto Protocol to enhance international climate change cooperation. The Barcelona Talks will be the last round of negotiations before the fifteenth session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 15) to be held in Copenhagen, Denmark, in December 2009. The second part of AWG-LCA 7 is expected to continue focusing on the key elements of the Bali Action Plan through six contact groups on: adaptation, capacity building, finance, mitigation, shared vision, and technology. The main documents for the session include the revised negotiating text resulting from AWG-LCA 6 ( FCCC/AWGLCA/2009/INF.1 ), and the various non-papers developed during and after the first part of AWG-LCA 7 in Bangkok, Thailand. The second part of AWG-KP 9 is expected to continue with the working arrangements adopted during the first part of AWG-KP 9 in Bangkok, and work through four contact groups focusing on: Annex I parties emission reductions in the post-2012 period; other issues, including the flexibility mechanisms and land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); potential consequences; and legal matters. The AWG-KP s work will be based on documentation revised by the Chair on the basis of work by the first part of AWG-KP 9 in Bangkok. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS OF FCCC COP-2: MONDAY, 8 JULY 1996

    The Second Conference of the Parties (COP-2) to the Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) convened this morning in Geneva. The Plenary elected the President of the Conference, heard opening statements, adopted the programme of work and debated Rules of Procedure including the election of officers other than the President. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE 27TH SESSION OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 12-17 NOVEMBER 2007

    The 27th session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) was held from 12-17 November 2007 at the Museo de las Ciencias in Valencia, Spain, to finalize its Fourth Assessment Report (AR4). Nearly 450 participants attended the meeting, including Lead Authors and representatives from governments, UN agencies, non-governmental organizations, industry and academia. Following an all-night session and many long discussions, the meeting approved and adopted the AR4 Synthesis Report (SYR) late on Friday night, 16 November. On the final day of the meeting, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon addressed the Panel. During the session, delegates considered the AR4 Synthesis Report (SYR) , with a view to approve the Summary for Policymakers of the SYR and adopt the Longer Report of the SYR. Participants also discussed a process for considering the future of the IPCC , membership of the IPCC Bureau and the Task Force Bureau , the IPCC programme and budget for 2008-2010 , and heard progress reports on the IPCC Task Force on National Greenhouse Gas Inventories , Future Work on Scenarios , Technical Paper on Climate Change and Water , Task Group on Data and Scenario Support for Impact and Climate Assessment, and Outreach. Following years of work, the adoption of the new assessment on climate change was accompanied with mixed feelings of relief over its completion and apprehensive concern about the grave challenges that lie ahead. Read More
  • TWENTY-FOURTH SESSIONS OF THE SUBSIDIARY BODIES OF THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE AND ASSOCIATED MEETINGS: 15-26 MAY 2006

    The twenty-fourth sessions of the Subsidiary Bodies (SB 24) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) are taking place from 18-26 May 2006, at the Maritim Hotel in Bonn, Germany. SB 24 will follow a UNFCCC ‘Dialogue on long-term cooperative action to address climate change by enhancing implementation of the Convention,’ being held from 15-16 May. In addition, the first session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol will take place in parallel with SB 24, from 17-25 May. Both the UNFCCC Dialogue and the Ad Hoc Working Group under the Kyoto Protocol are being held as a result of decisions taken during the eleventh Conference of the Parties (COP 11) to the UNFCCC and first Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (COP/MOP 1) in Montreal in late 2005. At COP 11 and COP/MOP 1, delegates adopted a number of decisions to engage in discussions for considering a framework for the post-2012 period (when the Kyoto Protocol’s first commitment period ends) and long-term cooperative action on climate change. Read More
  • TWENTY-FOURTH SESSIONS OF THE SUBSIDIARY BODIES OF THE UNFCCC AND FIRST SESSION OF THE AD HOC WORKING GROUP UNDER THE KYOTO PROTOCOL: 17-26 MAY 2006

    The twenty-fourth sessions of the Subsidiary Bodies (SB 24) of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and first session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG) were held in Bonn, Germany, from 17-26 May 2006. The events drew 1750 participants, including over 1000 government officials, several hundred representatives of UN bodies and agencies, intergovernmental organizations and non-governmental organizations, and 42 accredited members of the media. Read More
  • TWENTY-SIXTH SESSIONS OF THE SUBSIDIARY BODIES OF THE UNFCCC AND ASSOCIATED MEETINGS: 7-18 MAY 2007

    The twenty-sixth sessions of the Subsidiary Bodies (SB 26) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) took place from 7-18 May 2007, at the Maritim Hotel in Bonn, Germany. The third session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG) was also held, from 14-18 May. In addition, the third workshop under the Dialogue on long-term cooperative action to address climate change by enhancing implementation of the Convention (Convention Dialogue) convened on 16 and 17 May. The events drew over 1800 participants, including almost 1100 government officials, over 650 representatives of UN bodies and agencies, intergovernmental organizations and non-governmental organizations, and 57 accredited members of the media. At SB 26 , the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) took up issues such as the Nairobi work programme on impacts, vulnerability and adaptation to climate change , the development and transfer of technologies , reducing emissions from deforestation in developing countries, methodological issues , and climate change mitigation . The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) considered a range of issues, including national communications , the Adaptation Fund , the 2008-2009 budget , the adverse effects of climate change and impacts of response measures, and capacity building. The Convention Dialogue and the Protocol’s AWG originate from COP 11 and COP/MOP 1 in Montreal in late 2005. At those meetings, delegates adopted two decisions to engage in discussions to consider a framework for the post-2012 period (when the Kyoto Protocol’s first commitment period ends) and long-term cooperative action on climate change. In Bonn, the AWG held a round-table discussion on the mitigation potentials of policies, measures and technologies, and adopted conclusions on analysis of mitigation potential and the AWG’s future work. The Dialogue workshop involved sessions on both mitigation and adaptation, as well as discussions in preparation for the fourth and final workshop in Vienna in August 2007. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-9 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Wednesday, delegates to COP-9 convened in morning meetings of the SBSTA and SBI, and throughout the day in informal consultations and contact groups. SBSTA discussed cooperation with relevant international organizations, cleaner or less-greenhouse gas-emitting energy, implementation of Protocol Article 2.3 (adverse effects of P&Ms), activities implemented jointly (AIJ) and the Brazilian proposal for differentiated emissions reduction targets according to the impact of their historic emissions on temperature rise. SBI addressed the programme budget for 2004-5. Several contact groups met to discuss draft conclusions and COP decisions. Read More
  • UN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE IN CANCUN, 29 NOVEMBER - 10 DECEMBER 2010

    The UN Climate Change Conference in Cancun begins today and is scheduled to conclude on 10 December 2010. The conference will include the sixteenth session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 16) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the sixth session of the Conference of the Parties serving as the meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (COP/MOP 6). The conference also comprises the 33rd sessions of the Subsidiary Bodies, the fifteenth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP 15) and the thirteenth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the UNFCCC (AWG-LCA 13). The focus of the conference is on a two-track negotiating process aiming to enhance long-term international climate change cooperation under the Convention and the Protocol. The original deadline for completing these negotiations was the UN Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, held in December 2009, but as many issues remained outstanding, the mandates of the two AWGs were extended until Cancun where they are expected to report their respective outcomes to COP 16 and COP/MOP 6. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-8 HIGHLIGHTS

    Delegates to COP-8 continued deliberations in contact groups and meetings of the COP’s subsdiary bodies on Tuesday, adopting a number of conclusions. Delegates convened in contact groups on the financial mechanism and guidelines on non-Annex I national communications. In the afternoon and evening, Parties met in the SBSTA to address: election of officers other than the Chair; the IPCC Third Assessment Report (TAR); methodological issues; issues relating to hydrofluorocarbons and perfluorocarbons; cooperation with relevant international organizations; UNFCCC Article 6 (education, training and public awareness); technology transfer; policies and measures (P&Ms); research and systematic observation (R&SO); cleaner or less greenhouse gas-emitting energy; and issues related to the implementation of Protocol Article 2.3 (adverse effects of P&Ms). Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-10 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Wednesday, the high-level segment of COP-10 opened. In the morning, delegates heard statements from UN bodies and specialized agencies and regional groups. In the afternoon, the first high-level panel discussion was held, on ‘The UNFCCC after 10 years: accomplishments and future challenges.’ A contact group on the exchange of views on UNFCCC activities relevant to other intergovernmental meetings also took place. Read More
  • CANCUN HIGHLIGHTS

    On Thursday, contact groups and informal consultations, including discussions at the ministerial level, were held throughout the day. Late in the evening, COP and COP/MOP President Espinosa convened an informal stocktaking plenary. Throughout the day, the high-level segment continued with statements from heads of states, governments and delegations. A webcast of all statements is available online at: http://webcast.cc2010.mx Read More
  • COPENHAGEN HIGHLIGHTS

    On Thursday morning, the COP and COP/MOP plenaries convened. In the afternoon and late evening, contact group meetings and drafting groups took place under the COP and COP/MOP. Read More
  • TWELFTH CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE AND SECOND MEETING OF THE PARTIES TO THE KYOTO PROTOCOL: 6-17 NOVEMBER 200

    From 6-17 November, a series of climate change meetings are taking place at the UN Office at Nairobi, Kenya. The UN Climate Change Conference - Nairobi 2006 will include the second Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (COP/MOP 2) and twelfth Conference of the Parties (COP 12) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) . At COP/MOP 2 , parties are expected to take up issues relating to the Protocol’s flexible mechanisms, particularly the Clean Development Mechanism and Joint Implementation. Delegates will also discuss Parties ‘ compliance with the Protocol and a proposed amendment to the Protocol, as well as capacity building, a proposal by Belarus to amend the list of countries with commitments under the Protocol, and a proposal by the Russian Federation on procedures to approve voluntary commitments under the Protocol. A review of the treaty is also mandated for COP/MOP 2 under Article 9 of the Protocol. In addition, work will be undertaken to finalize the Adaptation Fund, while a number of financial, administrative and other matters will also be taken up. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE FIFTH CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE, WEDNESDAY, 27 OCTOBER 1999

    Delegates met in Plenary to consider proposals to amend Annexes I and II to the Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC). The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) considered: development and transfer of technologies; Annex I communications; methodological issues; cooperation with relevant international organizations; and research and systematic observation. The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) discussed greenhouse gas (GHG) inventory data for Annex I communications, intergovernmental meetings, and administrative and financial matters. Contact groups met to consider: adverse effects; land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); capacity building; activities implemented jointly (AIJ); non-Annex I communications; and Annex I communications. Read More
  • AWGLCA 1 AND AWG 5 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Wednesday, the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWGLCA) continued discussions on the work programme in an informal plenary and drafting group . In the morning and afternoon, the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG) held an in-session workshop on means to reach emission reduction targets , focusing on land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF), as well as sectoral approaches. Read More
  • SB 24 & AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    Contact groups and informal consultations were held throughout Saturday on a wide range of issues, including adaptation, the Adaptation Fund, arrangements for intergovernmental meetings, deforestation, IPCC 2006 Guidelines and harvested wood products, privileges and immunities, research and systematic observation, and the Special Climate Change Fund (SCCF). In addition, bilateral and small group consultations continued under the AWG, and an in-session workshop was held on carbon capture and storage. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM FCCC SB-12 INFORMAL MEETINGS, MONDAY, 5 JUNE 2000

    The week of informal meetings preceding the twelfth sessions of the subsidiary bodies (SB-12) of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) began with an initial briefing by the Chairs of the subsidiary bodies. Following this, a workshop was convened to consider the Protocol mechanisms, and informal meetings were held to address: guidelines on Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information); FCCC Article 4.8 and 4.9 and Protocol Article 3.14 (adverse effects); and land use, land-use change and forestry. Read More
  • UNFCCC SB-18 HIGHLIGHTS

    Delegates to the Eighteenth Sessions of the UNFCCC Subsidiary Bodies (SB-18) continued their deliberations Friday, convening meetings of the SBI and SBSTA and a number of contact and informal groups. In the morning, the SBSTA addressed cooperation with relevant international organizations, and other matters, including issues relating to cleaner or less-greenhouse gas-emitting energy, and issues relating to the implementation of Protocol Article 2.3 (adverse effects of policies and measures). In the afternoon, the SBI met to discuss several items, including: non-Annex I financial matters; capacity building; national communications; and a request by a group of countries of Central Asia and the Caucasus, Albania and the Republic of Moldova (CACAM) regarding their status under the UNFCCC. Contact groups were also held on: the programme budget for the biennium 2004-2005; implementation of UNFCCC Article 4.8 and 4.9 (adverse effects); Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information); the IPCC TAR; research and systematic observation (R&SO); policies and measures (P&Ms); and capacity building. Read More
  • SB 34 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    Contact groups and informal consultations were held throughout the day under the AWG-LCA, AWG-KP, SBI and SBSTA. In the afternoon, the incoming presidency of COP 17 and COP/MOP 7 organized open-ended informal consultations on parties expectations for Durban. Read More
  • SB 36 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning and afternoon, a number of contact groups and informal consultations took place under the AWG-KP, SBI and SBSTA. Under the AWG-LCA, an in-session workshop on equitable access to sustainable development was held. Read More
  • SIXTEENTH SESSIONS OF THE SUBSIDIARY BODIES TO THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 5-14 JUNE 2002

    The Sixteenth Sessions of the Subsidiary Bodies (SB-16) to the 1992 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) begins today at the Maritim Hotel in Bonn, Germany. Having completed three years of negotiations on the operational details of the Kyoto Protocol in November 2001, Parties to SB-16 will take up a variety of issues, including: technology transfer; the Third Assessment Report (TAR) of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC); a proposal on cleaner or less greenhouse gas-emitting energy; national communications; implementation of UNFCCC Article 4.8 and 4.9 and Protocol Article 2.3 (adverse effects); matters relating to least developed countries (LDCs); capacity building; preparations for the World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD); and methodological issues, including guidelines under Protocol Articles 5, 7, and 8, and land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF). Outcomes from the Fourth Session of the Preparatory Committee for the WSSD, being held in Bali until 7 June, may have an impact on the discussions at SB-16. Read More
  • WARSAW HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning, the opening plenary of the ADP took place. Throughout the day, a number of contact groups, informal consultations, workshops and other events convened under the SBI, SBSTA and ADP. These included, inter alia : a SBSTA in-session workshop on agriculture; SBI in-session workshop on gender and climate change; forum on response measures in-forum workshop on cooperation on response strategies; second meeting of the structured expert dialogue on the 2013-2015 Review; ADP briefing on overview of institutions, mechanisms and arrangements under the Convention; and a contact group on loss and damage. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-6 HIGHLIGHTS, MONDAY, 20 NOVEMBER 2000

    Delegates met in a morning Plenary session to consider the reports of the UNFCCC subsidiary bodies and organizational matters. Her Majesty Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands then joined participants to hear speeches by Dutch Prime Minister Wim Kok and French President Jacques Chirac. Read More
  • SB 28 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    On Thursday, the SBI and SBSTA concluded initial consideration of their agendas, with many issues referred to contact groups for further discussion. The AWG-LCA convened a workshop on investment and financial flows to address climate change. Contact groups and informal consultations convened on a range of issues, including capacity building, non-Annex I communications, the fourth review of the financial mechanism, LULUCF, the flexible mechanisms, the Nairobi Work Programme (NWP), research needs of the Convention, and technology transfer. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS OF FCCC COP-2: THURSDAY, 18 JULY 1996

    The Plenary met on the penultimate day of the Second Conference of the Parties (COP-2) to the Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) to convene the Ministerial Segment. High level statements were interrupted in the afternoon to allow the Plenary to note the Ministerial Declaration, which had been drafted following the Ministerial Round Table on Wednesday. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE FIFTH CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON, CLIMATE CHANGE, TUESDAY, 26 OCTOBER 1999

    Delegates met all day in a joint session of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) and the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) to consider: FCCC Articles 4.8 and 4.9 (adverse effects); compliance; capacity building; activities implemented jointly (AIJ); and the Protocol mechanisms. A Joint Working Group on compliance met in the evening and contact groups were convened on non-Annex I communications and guidelines for Annex I communications. Read More
  • FCCC COP-5 HIGHLIGHTS, SATURDAY, 30 OCTOBER 1999

    Delegates met in an afternoon session of the Joint Working Group (JWG) on compliance to continue consideration of procedures and mechanisms relating to compliance under the Kyoto Protocol. Contact groups met to consider: adverse effects; activities implemented jointly (AIJ); Annex I communications; capacity building; land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); non- Annex I communications; and the Protocol mechanisms. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-6 PART II HIGHLIGHTS, TUESDAY, 24 JULY 2001

    The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) met to take up the agenda of work for their fourteenth sessions. Delegates also met in a brief Plenary. Read More
  • UNFCCC SEMINAR ON THE DEVELOPMENT AND TRANSFER OF ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND TECHNOLOGIES FOR ADAPTATION TO CLIMATE CHANGE: 14-16 JUNE 2005

    The UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) seminar on the development and transfer of environmentally sound technologies for adaptation to climate change convened from 14-16 June 2005, at the Hilton Hotel in Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago. The seminar was convened following a request from the UNFCCC’s Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) at its twentieth session in June 2004, for the UNFCCC Secretariat to organize a seminar on the development and transfer of environmentally sound technologies (ESTs) for adaptation to climate change, in order to discuss case studies encompassing short-, medium- and long-term examples of their application. The terms of reference for the seminar were prepared by the UNFCCC’s Expert Group on Technology Transfer (EGTT) at its sixth meeting. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE FIRST SESSION OF THE AD HOC WORKING GROUP ON LONG-TERM COOPERATIVE ACTION AND THE FIFTH SESSION OF THE AD HOC WORKING GROUP ON FURTHER COMMITMENTS FOR ANNEX I PARTIES UNDER THE KYOTO PROTOCOL, 31 MARCH - 4 APRIL 2008

    The first session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action (AWGLCA 1) and the fifth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (AWG 5) took place from 31 March to 4 April 2008 in Bangkok, Thailand. Approximately 1000 participants attended the meeting, representing governments, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations, academia and the private sector. Over 100 media representatives also attended. The AWGLCA was established by the 13th Conference of the Parties (COP 13) , held in Bali, Indonesia, in December 2007, as a follow-up process to the Dialogue on long-term cooperative action to address climate change by enhancing implementation of the Convention. This new subsidiary body is mandated to launch a comprehensive process to enable the full, effective and sustained implementation of the Convention through long-term cooperative action up to and beyond 2012. The AWGLCA must complete its work by COP 15 in Copenhagen in 2009. In Bangkok, AWGLCA 1 exchanged views on key elements in the Bali Action Plan (decision 1/CP.13), including a shared vision for long-term cooperative action, mitigation, adaptation, technology and finance. The main focus of AWGLCA 1 was on developing its work programme for 2008, which was adopted just after midnight on Saturday morning. The work programme aims to further discussions on all elements of the Bali Action Plan at every session of the AWGLCA in a coherent, integrated and transparent manner. It establishes a timetable and elements to be addressed, as well as eight in-session workshops to be held during 2008. The AWG was set up by the first Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (COP/MOP 1) in Montreal, Canada, in late 2005, to consider Annex I parties commitments beyond the Protocol s first commitment period ending in 2012. At its fifth meeting, the AWG convened an in-session workshop on analyzing the means for Annex I parties to reach their emission reduction targets. In its conclusions, AWG 5 indicated that emissions trading and the project-based mechanisms under the Protocol should continue in the post-2012 period, and be supplemental to domestic actions in Annex I countries. Although the AWGLCA work programme for 2008 was not adopted until early Saturday morning, many were pleased that they fulfilled their mandate and have provided the framework for discussions on all elements of the Bali Action Plan, including a timetable for in-session workshops. The AWG also achieved its objectives, and moved discussions forward on how to address key issues in the second commitment period, including land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF), mechanisms, sectoral approaches and bunker fuels. Now the stage has been set for the next round of discussions in Bonn, beginning on 2 June 2008. Read More
  • EIGHTH SESSION OF WORKING GROUP II OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 2-6 APRIL 2007

    The eighth session of Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Working Group II took place at the Charlemagne Building, Brussels, Belgium, from 2-6 April 2007. The meeting was attended by 366 participants, including scientists and representatives from governments, UN agencies and non-governmental organizations. The meeting resulted in the acceptance of Working Group II’s (WGII) contribution to the IPCC Fourth Assessment Report (AR4), titled Climate Change 2007:Impacts, adaptation and vulnerability, including approval of the Summary for Policy Makers (SPM) and acceptance of the underlying report and Technical Summary. The key findings of the SPM emphasize the observed and projected impacts of climate change, including accumulating evidence that changes in many physical and biological systems are linked to anthropogenic warming. According to the SPM, observed and projected impacts of climate change include various changes in the natural environment, flooding, and food and water shortages. Among other things, the SPM states that 20-30% of plant and animal species are likely to face extinction with temperature rises exceeding 1.5-2.5 °C. It indicates that hundreds of millions of people will be exposed to increased water stress, many millions more people are projected to be exposed to flooding every year, and access to food in many African countries is projected to be severely compromised. The SPM also highlights other vulnerabilities and potential negative impacts of climate change on sustainable development. It states that adaptation will be necessary to the already unavoidable warming, but many impacts can be avoided, reduced or delayed by mitigation. The process leading to the adoption of the SPM was generally viewed as laborious. At the meeting , delegates addressed the five sections of the SPM, however they did not even consider the last two sections until after 10:00 pm on the final day of negotiations. The meeting was scheduled to end on Thursday, 5 April, with a press conference on Friday morning. Nevertheless, discussions on the SPM continued throughout the night and the SPM was finalized at 10:00 am on Friday morning and formally adopted that afternoon. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE SIXTH SESSION OF THE AD HOC GROUP ON THE BERLIN MANDATE: WEDNESDAY, 5 MARCH 1997

    Delegates to the sixth session of the Ad Hoc Group on the Berlin Mandate (AGBM-6) continued consideration of elements related to strengthening commitments in Article 4.2 (a) and (b) and focused specifically on quantified emission limitation and reduction objectives (QELROs) within specified time frames. In the afternoon, AGBM convened ‘non- group meetings’ on advancing the implementation of existing commitments in Article 4.1 and on institutions and mechanisms. Read More
  • DURBAN HIGHLIGHTS

    On Tuesday, Heads of State and international organizations, as well as regional group representatives addressed delegates in a High-Level Segment held in the afternoon, while contact groups and informal consultations met throughout the day and into the night on several issues, including the CDM, the Adaptation Fund, LULUCF, REDD+, finance, response measures, legal options, sectoral approaches, market and non-market approaches, adaptation and the Review. Read More
  • SB 32 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning and afternoon, contact groups and informal consultations took place on issues including national communications, the financial mechanism, review of the Adaptation Fund, and capacity building under the SBI, item 3 (preparation of an outcome to be presented to COP 16) under the AWG-LCA, and Annex I emission reductions and other issues under the AWG-KP. Read More
  • DURBAN HIGHLIGHTS

    Delegates met in plenary sessions of the COP and COP/MOP, as well as in contact groups and informal consultations on a wide range of agenda items under the AWG-LCA, AWG-KP, SBI and SBSTA. Read More
  • COP 11 AND COP/MOP 1 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Tuesday, delegates convened in SBI and SBSTA plenary meetings and in contact groups. SBI considered the financial mechanism and other financial, administrative and institutional matters, as well as capacity building under the UNFCCC and under the Kyoto Protocol, and implementation of UNFCCC Article 4.8 and 4.9 (adverse effects). SBSTA discussed research and systematic observation, cooperation with relevant organizations, methodological issues under the Kyoto Protocol, and technology transfer. Contact groups also began their work, with meetings in the evening on the financial mechanism, mitigation, adaptation and Annex I communications. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE SIXTEENTH SESSIONS OF THE SUBSIDIARY BODIES TO THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 5-14 JUNE 2002

    The Sixteenth Sessions of the Subsidiary Bodies (SB-16) to the 1992 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) were held from 5-14 June 2002, at the Maritim Hotel in Bonn, Germany. Over 1100 participants representing 152 Parties, one observer State, 112 observer organizations and four media outlets were in attendance. Having completed three years of negotiations on the operational details of the Kyoto Protocol in November 2001, delegates met in Bonn for a new phase of negotiations, focusing on the implementation of the Marrakesh Accords to the Bonn Agreements, and on issues under the UNFCCC. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-6 PART II HIGHLIGHTS, FRIDAY, 20 JULY 2001

    Delegates to the resumed COP-6 met in a morning Plenary to address organizational matters. In the afternoon, Ministers and other high-level officials began substantive negotiations behind closed doors, focusing on financial issues, the mechanisms and land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF). Late in the evening, President Pronk convened a brief Plenary session to update participants on progress. Read More
  • SB 34 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    Following contact group meetings and informal consultations throughout the day, the SBI and SBSTA closing plenaries took place on Thursday evening. Read More
  • SB 26 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Thursday, the third workshop under the UNFCCC Dialogue drew to a close, with participants meeting in the morning and afternoon to discuss action on adaptation and matters relating to the fourth workshop in August 2007 . An AWG contact group also convened in the evening, and contact groups and informal consultations under the SBSTA and SBI continued on the budget , deforestation , and technology transfer . Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM FCCC SB-13 INFORMAL MEETINGS, TUESDAY, 5 SEPTEMBER 2000

    Delegates to the informal meetings preceding SB-13 met to consider: policies and measures (P&Ms); technology transfer; land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); capacity building; compliance; FCCC Article 4.8 and 4.9 and Protocol Article 3.14 (adverse effects); the mechanisms; and guidelines under Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information). Read More
  • AWG-LCA

    AWG-LCA LONG-TERM COOPERATIVE ACTION: Chair Machado noted that a number of contact groups had met to discuss the assembly document, which deals with a shared vision, mitigation, adaptation, and delivering on technology and financing. He indicated that there had been 164 submissions in total for the assembly text,... Read More
  • SB 26 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Friday, contact groups and informal consultations were held on a variety of issues, including: the Adaptation Fund ; budget for 2008-2009 ; deforestation ; Decision 1/CP.10 (Buenos Aires programme of work on adaptation and response measures); IPCC’s 2006 Guidelines on national greenhouse gas inventories ; r esearch and systematic observation ; small-scale afforestation and reforestation under the CDM ; and technology transfer . Two workshops were also held: one on the Russian proposal , the other on climate change mitigation, focused on urban planning and development . Read More
  • BONN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE

    On Thursday afternoon, the ADP closing plenary convened. During the day, informal consultations and contact groups took place under the SBSTA and ADP. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE WORKSHOP ON LAND USE, LAND-USE CHANGE AND FORESTRY: 10-13 JULY 2000

    One hundred twenty-one representatives of governments, intergovernmental organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), business and industry groups and academic institutions attended the workshop on land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF), which met from 10-13 July 2000 at the International Fair Center in Poznañ, Poland. This workshop was organized by the Secretariat of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) in response to a request by the FCCC’s Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) at its tenth session, held in June 1999. The SBSTA requested that a workshop be held between SBSTA-12 and the Sixth Conference of the Parties (COP-6) to analyze the Special Report on LULUCF prepared by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). The Special Report provides Parties with scientific and technical information relating to LULUCF and relevant articles of the Kyoto Protocol. Read More
  • LIMA HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning, the Lima Climate Action High-Level Meeting took place. The ADP contact group on item 3 briefly convened in the morning and was then suspended pending consultations among negotiating groups on the way forward. The contact group reconvened late in the afternoon but agreement could not be reached on how to move forward. Informal consultations took place throughout the day under the COP and CMP. An informal stocktaking plenary took place in the evening. Later in the evening the ADP contact group convened shortly for the ADP Co-Chairs to present a revised draft decision text, which parties agreed to discuss on Friday morning. Read More
  • AWGLCA 1 AND AWG 5 HIGHLIGHTS

    The first session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWGLCA 1) and the fifth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG 5) opened in Bangkok, Thailand, on Monday morning with a welcoming ceremony . This was followed by the opening session of the AWG. In the afternoon, delegates convened in the AWGLCA s opening plenary. Read More
  • COPENHAGEN HIGHLIGHTS

    Throughout the day on Monday, contact groups and informal consultations convened on a range of issues, including Annex I emission reductions, potential consequences and other issues under the AWG-KP, technology, finance and a shared vision under the AWG-LCA, and the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) under the COP/MOP. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM FCCC SB-12, TUESDAY, 13 JUNE 2000

    The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) convened in morning and afternoon sessions to consider the development and transfer of technologies, cooperation with relevant international organizations, policies and measures and methodological issues. The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) addressed arrangements for intergovernmental meetings and administrative and financial matters. The Joint Working Group on Compliance (JWG) discussed the Co-Chairs’ text. Contact groups met to consider: administrative and financial matters; land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); adverse effects; capacity building in countries with economies in transition; and guidelines under Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information). The Friends of the Chair group on the technology transfer consultative process also convened. Read More
  • BONN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE

    The contact group on ADP item 3 addressed workstream 1 (2015 agreement), with a focus on finance and INDCs. A TEM on action on non-CO2 GHGs was held throughout the day. Read More
  • PART II OF THE SIXTH CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE, MONDAY, 16 JULY 2001

    The resumed Sixth Conference of the Parties (COP-6 Part II) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) opened on Monday, 16 July, in Bonn, Germany. Delegates met in the morning for an opening Plenary session to address organizational matters. In the afternoon and evening, Parties convened in negotiating groups to discuss: finance, technology transfer, adaptation, capacity building, and adverse effects; mechanisms; and land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF). Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE BANGKOK CLIMATE CHANGE TALKS, 28 SEPTEMBER - 9 OCTOBER 2009

    The first part of the seventh session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (AWG-LCA 7) and the first part of the ninth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP 9) took place from 28 September to 9 October 2009 in Bangkok, Thailand. Approximately 3,500 participants attended the meeting, representing governments, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations, academia, the private sector and the media. Both AWGs will resume their sessions from 2-7 November 2009 in Barcelona, Spain, and are scheduled to report to the fifteenth Conference of the Parties (COP 15) to be held in Copenhagen, Denmark, from 7-18 December 2009. The main objective of the Bangkok session was to continue streamlining and consolidating text under both AWGs. AWG-LCA 7 based its work on the revised negotiating text ( FCCC/AWGLCA/2009/INF.1 ), which reflects deliberations at AWG-LCA 6 in June. To assist its work, the AWG-LCA also had before it reordered and consolidated negotiating text as well as background materials prepared during and after its informal session in August ( FCCC/AWGLCA/2009/INF.2 and Adds. 1 & 2 ). The work in Bangkok focused on the key elements of the Bali Action Plan (BAP), namely: adaptation, finance, technology, mitigation, capacity building and a shared vision for long-term cooperative action. As a result of two weeks of negotiations, the AWG-LCA produced a number of non-papers that will be forwarded to the resumed AWG-LCA 7 in Barcelona. After the Bangkok session, the length of the text before the AWG-LCA remains considerable and what some characterize as deep divides persist in areas such as finance and mitigation. However, progress on issues such as adaptation, technology and capacity building was commonly described as satisfactory. Many delegates also felt that the session had been useful because parties began focusing on the substance and clarifying issues that need to be resolved through high-level political guidance in Copenhagen. During the first part of AWG-KP 9, discussions continued on Annex I parties emission reductions beyond the first commitment period under the Kyoto Protocol. In addition, parties continued to discuss other issues in the AWG-KP´s work programme ( FCCC/KP/AWG/2008/8 ), including the flexibility mechanisms, land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF) as well as potential consequences of response measures. Many saw progress on LULUCF rules as the most important achievement in Bangkok. Most felt, however, that no significant progress was made on Annex I parties aggregate and individual emission reductions in the post-2012 period, and differences also surfaced between developed and developing countries concerning whether the outcome from Copenhagen should be an amendment to the Kyoto Protocol or a single new agreement. On the way forward and prospects for Copenhagen, one veteran in the process commented The ingredients for success are on the table. What we will need for Copenhagen to succeed is political guidance and willingness to step away from national self-interest. Read More
  • COP 12 AND COP/MOP 2 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Wednesday, the joint COP and COP/MOP high-level segment began with keynote speeches, followed by over 40 statements from ministers and heads of delegation, UN bodies and specialized agencies. In addition, the second workshop of the Dialogue on long-term cooperative action to address climate change by enhancing implementation of the Convention began its work. Informal consultations were also held on the CDM. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE UNFCCC FOURTH CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES, 2 NOVEMBER 1998

    Delegates to the Fourth Conference of the Parties (COP-4) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) heard welcoming remarks and considered organizational matters. Delegates debated the COP-4 agenda at length, focusing on the deletion of an item concerning voluntary commitments for non-Annex I Parties. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE BONN CLIMATE CHANGE TALKS, 31 MAY - 11 JUNE 2010

    The Bonn Climate Change Talks took place from 31 May to 11 June 2010 in Bonn, Germany. The meeting included the 32nd sessions of the Subsidiary Bodies of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the tenth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the UNFCCC (AWG-LCA 10) and the twelfth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP 12). Approximately 2,900 participants attended the meeting, representing governments, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations, academia, the private sector and the media. One of the key issues under the Subsidiary Bodies was an agenda item under the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) on scientific, technical and socio-economic aspects of mitigating climate change. The Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), with most other parties, called for requesting a technical paper by the Secretariat on options for limiting global average temperature increase to 1.5°C and 2°C from pre-industrial levels. The proposal was opposed by Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait and Qatar. No agreement was reached and parties eventually adopted SBSTA conclusions without referencing the technical paper. Many parties and civil society representatives expressed deep disappointment at the outcome. The AWG-LCA focused on exchanging views on the Chair s new draft negotiating text (FCCC/AWGLCA/2010/6) through a contact group chaired by AWG-LCA Chair Margaret Mukahanana-Sangarwe (Zimbabwe). During the meeting, several delegates commented on the constructive mood and some felt that progress was made on issues, such as finance. However, AWG-LCA 10 did not adopt conclusions as parties did not reach agreement on issues including a request to the Secretariat to compile developed and developing countries mitigation pledges. Late in the evening on Thursday, 10 June, AWG-LCA Chair Mukahanana-Sangarwe circulated the advance draft of a revised text to facilitate negotiations among parties, to be issued as an official document (FCCC/AWGLCA/2010/8) for consideration by AWG-LCA 11 in August. She explained that the draft text would still be revised before the August session and that she did not wish to discuss it at AWG-LCA 10. During the closing plenary, a number of developing countries indicated that the advance draft was unbalanced, emphasizing that it could not be used as the basis for negotiations in August unless developing countries proposals were better reflected. For the AWG-KP, the focus was on Annex I emission reductions and other issues, including the flexibility mechanisms and land-use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF). In particular, parties exchanged views on the pledged emission reductions and the underlying assumptions on the use of the flexibility mechanisms and LULUCF in the post-2012 period. They also addressed legal matters and ways to ensure that there is no gap between the first and subsequent commitment periods. Late on Friday night, 11 June, the AWG-KP agreed to conclusions (FCCC/KP/AWG/2010/L.4) requesting the Secretariat to prepare a technical paper on legal issues and organize a technical workshop on the scale of Annex I emission reductions before AWG-LCA 13. Many felt that even though the level of ambition reflected in Annex I parties pledges remains inadequate, the AWG-KP has now made some progress in the right direction. At the end of the meeting, delegates bid farewell to the outgoing UNFCCC Executive Secretary Yvo de Boer and welcomed the appointment of Christiana Figueres from Costa Rica as the next Executive Secretary. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-9 HIGHLIGHTS

    The Ninth Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC (COP-9) and the Nineteenth Sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI-19) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA-19) opened on Monday, 1 December, in Milan, Italy. In the morning, delegates heard opening statements and addressed organizational matters in the COP Plenary. In the afternoon, the opening sessions of the SBI and SBSTA were held. Participants discussed organizational matters, the Third Assessment Report (TAR) of the IPCC, methodological issues and non-Annex I national communications. In the evening, Parties convened in contact groups on the IPCC TAR and non-Annex I national communications. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 3 AND AWG-KP 6 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Friday morning, the in-session workshop on cooperative sectoral approaches continued under the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA) . In the afternoon, a workshop on policy approaches and positive incentives on issues relating to reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation in developing countries (REDD), and the role of conservation, sustainable management of forests and enhancement of forest carbon stocks in developing countries was also held under the AWG-LCA. Throughout the day, the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP) convened contact groups on land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF) , the flexible mechanisms , and other issues comprising: greenhouse gases, sectors and source categories; approaches targeting sectoral emissions; methodological issues; and spillover effects. Read More
  • BONN CLIMATE CHANGE TALKS, 2-6 AUGUST 2010

    From 2-6 August 2010, delegates are meeting in Bonn, Germany, for the eleventh session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC AWG-LCA 11) and the thirteenth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP 13). AWG-LCA 11 will consider the Chair s revised text circulated in July. The text contains sections on shared vision, mitigation, adaptation, finance, technology and capacity building. These discussions are expected to focus on mitigation by developed countries, mitigation by developing countries, institutional arrangements for financing, and market-based approaches to mitigating climate change. Read More
  • A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE UNFCCC AND THE KYOTO PROTOCOL

    A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE UNFCCC AND THE KYOTO PROTOCOL The international political response to climate change began with the adoption of the UNFCCC in 1992. The UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) sets out a framework for action aimed at stabilizing atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases to... Read More
  • UNITED NATIONS CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE IN DURBAN, 28 NOVEMBER - 9 DECEMBER 2011

    The United Nations Climate Change Conference in Durban, South Africa, begins today and will continue until 9 December. The event includes the seventeenth Conference of the Parties (COP 17) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the seventh Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (COP/MOP 7). In support of these two main bodies, four subsidiary bodies will convene: the fourth part of the fourteenth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA 14); the fourth part of the sixteenth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP 16); and the thirty-fifth sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI 35) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA 35). A joint COP and COP/MOP high-level segment involving government ministers and other senior officials will also take place from 6-9 December. One focus will be on efforts to move ahead on several initiatives and institutions that were the subject of decisions in Cancun in 2010. In this respect, negotiations in Durban are expected to result in decisions that would operationalize, inter alia , a technology mechanism to promote clean energy and adaptation-related technologies, an adaptation framework to support developing countries and a Green Climate Fund. A second focus will be the question of how the international community will collaborate in tackling climate change in the future. In this respect, the AWG-KP and COP/MOP are expected to take a decision in Durban on the future of the Kyoto Protocol, bearing in mind that the Protocol s first commitment period expires in 2012. Additionally, the question of long-term cooperation under the UNFCCC will be taken up by the AWG-LCA and COP. Discussions are expected to focus on a timeline for developing a future framework under the Convention and also on an upcoming review of the adequacy of, and progress towards, limiting average global temperature rise to 2°C. This review is scheduled to take place between 2013 and 2015. Although a major breakthrough is not expected in Durban, many view the meeting as an important opportunity to deliver both operational decisions and some longer-term signals on the future direction of the process. Read More
  • COP 13 AND COP/MOP 3 HIGHLIGHTS

    Contact groups and informal consultations continued on Saturday on a wide range of issues, including: the AWG ; second review of the Protocol under Article 9 : long-term action under the Convention ; the Adaptation Fund ; Annex I communications ; capacity building ; education, training and public awareness ; the financial mechanism ; IPCC AR4 ; LDCs ; non-Annex I communications ; privileges and immunities ; reducing emissions from deforestation ; and technology transfer . Read More
  • UNFCCC SB-20 HIGHLIGHTS

    Delegates to UNFCCC SB-20 continued their deliberations in morning meetings of SBSTA and SBI, and in afternoon contact groups. SBSTA considered emissions from fuel used for international aviation and maritime transportation, issues relating to cleaner or less greenhouse gas-emitting energy, and issues relating to the implementation of Protocol Article 2.3 on adverse effects of policies and measures (P&Ms). SBI addressed arrangements for intergovernmental meetings, including COP-10 and effective participation in the UNFCCC process, and the continuing review of the functions and operations of the Secretariat.SBSTA contact groups were convened on technology transfer, small-scale afforestation and reforestation (A&R) projects under the CDM, and good practice guidance (GPG) for LULUCF. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 5 AND AWG-KP 7 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Tuesday, the AWG-LCA held contact groups on adaptation , mitigation , and technology and finance . The AWG-KP held contact groups and informal consultations on Annex I emission reductions, legal matters , LULUCF and flexibility mechanisms . Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MEETINGS OF THE FCCC SUBSIDARY BODIES 1 AUGUST 1997

    The seventh session of the Ad Hoc Group on the Berlin Mandate (AGBM) of the Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) opened on 31 July 1997 in Bonn, Germany. Delegates gave opening statements in a morning Plenary session and attended closed meetings in the afternoon to discuss the topic of continuing to advance implementation of existing commitments in Article 4.1 and quantified emissions limitation and reduction objectives (QELROS). Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE 32ND SESSION OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE, 11-14 OCTOBER 2010

    The 32nd session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) was held from 11-14 October 2010 in Busan, Republic of Korea. The approximately 300 participants focused on two primary tasks: revising the scope of the synthesis report (SYR) for the Fifth Assessment Report (AR5); and addressing the recommendations of the InterAcademy Council (IAC) Review of the IPCC processes and procedures. The Panel adopted a number of decisions in response to the IAC Review, including on treatment of grey literature and uncertainty, and processes to address errors in previous reports. The Panel also agreed to establish task groups on processes and procedures, communications, conflict of interest policy and management and governance to address recommendations that required further examination. They also accepted a revised outline for the AR5 SYR. Participants also addressed the communications strategy and replacement of members of the IPCC Bureau. Progress reports were presented on the Special Report on Renewable Energy Sources and Climate Change Mitigation (SRREN), the Task Force on National Greenhouse Gas Inventories (TFI) and the IPCC Peace Prize Scholarship Fund. The Panel observed one minute of silence in memory of Stephen Schneider and Igor Shiklomanov, and IPCC Chair Rajendra Pachauri announced that the AR5 would be dedicated to Stephen Schneider, who embodied the IPCC. Read More
  • THE SECOND CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 8-19 JULY 1996

    The Second Conference of the Parties (COP-2) to the Framework Convention on Climate Change begins today in Geneva. The COP’s four subsidiary bodies are also expected to hold sessions throughout the two week session. The Ministerial Segment to COP-2 will be held 17-18 July. Read More
  • SB 34 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    Contact groups and informal consultations were held throughout the day under the AWG-LCA, AWG-KP, SBI and SBSTA. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE TWELFTH CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE AND SECOND MEETING OF THE PARTIES TO THE KYOTO PROTOCOL: 6-17 NOVEMBER 2006

    From 6-17 November 2006, a series of climate change meetings took place at the UN Office at Nairobi, Kenya. The UN Climate Change Conference - Nairobi 2006 included the twelfth Conference of the Parties (COP 12) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and second Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol ( COP/MOP 2 ). These events drew over 5,900 participants, including 2,300 government officials, over 2,800 representatives of UN bodies and agencies, intergovernmental organizations and non-governmental organizations, and 516 accredited members of the media. At COP/MOP 2 , parties took up issues relating to the Protocol’s flexible mechanisms, particularly the Clean Development Mechanism and Joint Implementation. Delegates also discussed parties ‘ compliance with the Protocol, a proposed amendment to the Protocol, as well as capacity building and a number of financial, administrative and other matters. In addition, the first amendment to the Protocol was adopted, allowing Belarus to take on emissions reduction commitments under Annex B to the Protocol. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-9 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Saturday, 6 December, and Monday, 8 December, Parties to COP-9 met in several contact groups to continue their deliberations. Numerous informal consultations were also held. On Saturday, delegates considered: capacity building; technology transfer; the programme budget for 2004-5; good practice guidance on LULUCF; research and systematic observation (R&SO); non-Annex I national communications; the Special Climate Change Fund (SCCF); and sinks in the CDM. On Monday, Parties discussed: R&SO; good practice guidance on LULUCF; implementation of decision 5/CP.7 (implementation of UNFCCC Article 4.8 and 4.9 on adverse effects); non Annex-I national communications; methodological issues; and the programme budget for 2004-5. Read More
  • MEETINGS OF THE SUBSIDIARY BODIES OF THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE, 2 - 12 June 1998

    The subsidiary bodies of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) will meet from 2-12 June 1998 in Bonn, Germany. This is the first meeting since the adoption of the Kyoto Protocol at the Third Conference of the Parties (COP-3) in December 1997. Both the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technical Assistance (SBSTA) and the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) will address aspects of national communications and mechanisms for cooperative implementation, such as the clean development mechanism, emissions trading and ‘joint implementation’ (this term is used in the agenda for convenience). Read More
  • AWG-LCA 14 AND AWG-KP 16 HIGHLIGHTS

    The UN Climate Change Conference opened on Saturday morning in Panama City with a welcoming ceremony. The opening plenaries of the third parts of the 16th session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP) and the 14th session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention also took place in the morning. In the afternoon, the AWG-LCA contact group and the AWG-KP contact group on Annex I parties further commitments convened. Informal groups under the AWG-LCA on technology transfer and the Review also took place. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-7 HIGHLIGHTS, MONDAY, 5 NOVEMBER 2001

    Delegates to COP-7 met in negotiating and drafting groups on the mechanisms, compliance and Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information). In addition, the drafting group on LDCs continued its work, and informal groups met on a number of issues, including on the Consultative Group of Experts (CGE). Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE THIRD CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UNITED NATIONS FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE, 3 DECEMBER 1997

    Delegates to the Third Conference of the Parties (COP-3) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) met in morning and afternoon Plenary sessions to consider the report of the Global Environment Facility (GEF), technology transfer, review of the implementation of the Convention, and amendments to the Convention. Negotiating groups on quantified emission limitation and reduction objectives (QELROs) and FCCC Article 4.1 (commitments) continued their discussions. Read More
  • REPORT OF THE FIRST MEETING OF THE SUBSIDIARY BODIES OF THE : UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE:: 28 AUGUST - 1 SEPTEMBER 1995

    The first Conference of the Parties (COP 1) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC), which was held in Berlin from 28 March to 7 April 1995, requested the Secretariat to make arrangements for sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) and the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI). COP 1 characterized the role of the SBSTA as the link between scientific, technical and technological assessments, the information provided by competent international bodies, and the policy-oriented needs of the COP. The SBSTA is expected to develop recommendations on the following issues: scientific assessments; national communications from Annex I Parties; methodologies; first communications from non-Annex I Parties; activities implemented jointly under the pilot phase; transfer of technology; allocation and control of international bunker fuels; possible contributions to the ‘Berlin Mandate’ process; cooperation with competent international bodies, including the IPCC; proposals on longer term activities; and a workshop on NGO inputs. During the course of its first meeting, the SBSTA also attempted to establish intergovernmental technical advisory panels on technologies (TAP-T) and methodologies (TAP-M). Read More
  • COP 14 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Wednesday, the COP/MOP resumed initial consideration of its agenda and the AWG-LCA concluded the workshop on a shared vision. The AWG-KP held a workshop on mitigation potential and SBI Chair Asadi convened a round table on adverse effects and response measures. Contact groups were held on technology transfer, non-Annex I communications, REDD, the Nairobi Work Programme, the financial mechanism, decision 1/CP.10 (adaptation and response measures), and the second review of the Protocol under Article 9. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE SEVENTEENTH SESSION OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 4-6 APRIL 2001

    The seventeenth session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) was held from 4-6 April 2001, at the headquarters of the United Nations Environment Programme in Nairobi, Kenya. Over 200 delegates, experts and representatives of international and non-governmental organizations attended the session. Read More
  • CANCUN HIGHLIGHTS

    The COP/MOP plenary convened on Wednesday morning and afternoon. In the afternoon, the COP plenary also took place. Numerous informal groups under the SBI, SBSTA, AWG-KP and AWG-LCA were also held throughout the day. Editor s Note: The Earth Negotiations Bulletin s coverage of informal and contact groups is more limited than usual due to logistical/transport complications. Read More
  • BONN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE

    In the morning, two ADP Workstream 2 roundtables convened on: building a practical approach to increasing pre-2020 ambition; and a Workstream 1 roundtable on variety of actions. In the afternoon, the ADP roundtable on variety of actions continued and a number of SBSTA contact and informal groups also met throughout the day. A Friends of the Chair group met throughout the day. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM FCCC SB-13 INFORMAL MEETINGS, WEDNESDAY, 6 SEPTEMBER 2000

    Delegates to the informal meetings preceding SB-13 met to consider: land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); FCCC Article 4.8 and 4.9 and Protocol Article 3.14 (adverse effects); compliance; capacity building; the mechanisms; technology transfer; and guidelines under Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information). Read More
  • UNFCCC SB-16 HIGHLIGHTS, THURSDAY, 6 JUNE 2002

    Delegates to the Sixteenth Sessions of the Subsidiary Bodies of the UNFCCC (SB-16) met in SBSTA in the morning and afternoon to discuss: LULUCF good practice guidance and activities under the CDM; technology transfer; policies and measures; and cooperation with international organizations. Contact groups were convened to consider Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information); greenhouse gas inventories; LULUCF under the CDM; and the IPCC TAR. An informal group on cooperation with scientific organizations also met. Read More
  • UN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE IN BONN, 6 - 17 JUNE 2011

    The UN Climate Change Conference in Bonn begins today and is scheduled to conclude on 17 June 2011. The conference will include the 34th sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA). It also comprises the second part of the 16th session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP) and the second part of the 14th session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA). The SBI is expected to continue consideration of issues, such as national communications, the financial mechanism, least developed countries (LDCs), capacity building and technology. Following the Cancun Agreements, the SBI s provisional agenda (FCCC/SBI/2011/1) also includes proposed new items on: work programmes relating to reporting by Annex I and non-Annex I countries; adaptation; and response measures. The SBSTA is expected to continue addressing issues, including: the Nairobi work programme on impacts, vulnerability and adaptation; methodological issues; technology; and research and systematic observation. Its provisional agenda (FCCC/SBSTA/2011/1) also contains proposed new items, including the work programme on agriculture, and impacts of climate change on water and water resource management. Under the agenda item on reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation in developing countries (REDD), the SBSTA is also expected to initiate a new work programme on issues identified in Decision 1/CP.16, which is part of the Cancun Agreements. Having reached agreement on its agenda (FCCC/AWGLCA/20011/5) in April, the resumed AWG-LCA 14 is expected to address substantive issues for the first time since the adoption of the Cancun Agreements last December. The resumed AWG-KP 16 is expected to, inter alia , continue discussions on overarching policy issues in a contact group established in Bangkok. Read More
  • FOURTH SESSIONS OF THE AD HOC WORKING GROUP ON FURTHER COMMITMENTS FOR ANNEX I PARTIES UNDER THE KYOTO PROTOCOL AND CONVENTION DIALOGUE: 27-31 AUGUST 2007

    The fourth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (AWG 4) and the fourth workshop under the Dialogue on long-term cooperative action to address climate change by enhancing implementation of the Convention (Convention Dialogue) are taking place from 27-31 August 2007 in Vienna, Austria. The AWG and Convention Dialogue were established by decisions taken during the eleventh Conference of the Parties (COP 11) and the first Conference of the Parties serving as a Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (COP/MOP 1) in Montreal in late 2005. At those meetings , delegates discussed a range of issues relevant for a framework for the post-2012 period (when the Kyoto Protocol’s first commitment period ends) and long-term cooperative action on climate change. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-6 HIGHLIGHTS, THURSDAY, 16 NOVEMBER 2000

    Delegates convened in contact groups to discuss text on: mechanisms; capacity building in countries with economies in transition; ‘best practices’ in policies and measures; development and transfer of technologies; land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); and guidelines under Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information). The Joint Working Group on Compliance (JWG) also met to continue its work on negotiating text. In addition, negotiators met throughout the day and late into the night in closed ‘informal informal’ consultations and drafting groups to advance negotiations on issues such as mechanisms, compliance, development and transfer of technologies, the financial mechanism, adverse effects and capacity building in developing countries. Read More
  • BONN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE

    On Tuesday, the SBI plenary convened. The first SBI in-session dialogue to advance implementation of the Doha work programme on Convention Article 6 (education, training and public awareness) continued in the afternoon. During the day, informal consultations took place under the SBSTA and ADP. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 7 AND AWG-KP 9 HIGHLIGHTS

    The Barcelona Climate Change Talks opened on Monday morning with a welcoming ceremony. In the morning, the opening plenaries of the AWG-KP and the AWG-LCA took place. In the afternoon, contact groups convened to consider adaptation, mitigation, finance and technology under the AWG-LCA and Annex I emission reductions and potential consequences under the AWG-KP. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES MEETINGS , THURSDAY, 3 JUNE 1999

    The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) considered administrative and financial matters. The Subsidiary Body for Technological and Scientific Advice (SBSTA) discussed development and transfer of technologies. A contact group met to consider guidelines for Annex I communications. There were informal consultations on research and systematic observation. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MEETINGS OF THE FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES, 5-6 June 1998

    On Friday, the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) discussed the second review of adequacy of commitments and arrangements for intergovernmental meetings. The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technical Advice (SBSTA) debated the roster of experts and methodological aspects of the proposal by Brazil. On Friday and Saturday, the Ad Hoc Group on Article 13 discussed the Multilateral Consultative Process (MCP). Contact groups also continued to deliberate outstanding issues. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF WORKSHOPS ON ARTICLE 4.8 AND 4.9 OF THE UNFCCC: ADVERSE EFFECTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE IMPACT OF IMPLEMENTATION OF RESPONSE MEASURES, 9-11 AND 13-15 MARCH 2000

    Two workshops on Article 4.8 and 4.9 of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) were held from 9-11 and 13-15 March 2000 at the Internationales Kongresszentrum Bundehaus in Bonn, Germany. The FCCC Secretariat and the Chairs of the FCCC subsidiary bodies organized these workshops. Approximately 85 participants attended each workshop, including representatives of governments, intergovernmental organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and academic institutions. Read More
  • COP 12 AND COP/MOP 2 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Thursday, the joint COP and COP/MOP high-level segment continued with over 50 statements from ministers and heads of delegation. The second workshop of the Dialogue on long-term cooperative action to address climate change by enhancing implementation of the Convention also continued. Informal consultations and contact groups took place on issues such as the CDM , review of the Protocol (Article 9), the Russian proposal, and the Belarus proposal. Finally, an informal ministerial meeting was held late Thursday night to consider a number of these outstanding issues. Read More
  • NINTH SESSION OF IPCC WORKING GROUP III AND 26TH SESSION OF THE IPCC: 30 APRIL - 4 MAY 2007

    The ninth session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Working Group III (WGIII) met at the UN Conference Centre in Bangkok, Thailand, from 30 April to 4 May 2007, followed by the 26th session of the IPCC on Friday, 4 May. Nearly 300 participants attended the meeting, including Lead Authors and representatives from governments, UN agencies, non-governmental organizations, industry and academia. The meeting resulted in the acceptance of WGIII ‘s contribution to the IPCC Fourth Assessment Report (AR4), titled Climate Change 2007: Mitigation of Climate Change, including approval of the Summary for Policy Makers (SPM) and acceptance of the underlying report and technical summary. The key findings of the SPM emphasize that greenhouse gas emissions have increased by 70% since 1970 and that with current policies their growth is projected to continue over the next few decades. The SPM identifies substantial economic potential to mitigate global emissions in the short, medium and long term, and points to mitigation opportunities in several sectors, with the building sector having the highest short and medium-term potential. It indicates that the price of carbon could create incentives to reduce emissions, and provides estimates on the potential share of renewable energy and nuclear power in 2030. In addition to the role of technology and policies, the SPM also considers the influence of lifestyle changes, and highlights the nexus between mitigation and sustainable development. The WGIII meeting was scheduled to end on Thursday, 3 May. However, negotiations concluded at 4:16 am on Friday, 4 May, and formal approval of the SPM and closing of the meeting was on Friday morning. The 26th session of the IPCC opened on Friday, 4 May 2007. Participants discussed and approved decisions on the IPCC budget for 2008-2010, the IPCC terms of reference, further work of the IPCC on emissions scenarios, admission of observer organizations and the future work programme of the IPCC Task Force on National Greenhouse Gas Inventories (TFI). They also discussed the actions taken at the tenth session of WGI, the eighth session of WGII and the ninth session of WGIII , and heard progress reports about ongoing activities of each working group. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 14 AND AWG-KP 16 HIGHLIGHTS

    The UN Climate Change Conference continued in Panama City with informal groups meeting throughout the day. In the morning, the informal groups on developed country mitigation and other matters, including groups on economies in transition (EITs) and countries with special circumstances, convened under the AWG-LCA, along with an in-depth discussion in the informal group on capacity building. The AWG-KP spin-off group on LULUCF also took place in the morning. In the afternoon, the AWG-LCA informal groups on adaptation, developing country NAMAs, technology transfer, shared vision and finance convened. The AWG-KP spin-off groups on numbers and the flexibility mechanisms also took place. Read More
  • SB 24 & AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    The first workshop of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) ‘Dialogue on long-term cooperative action to address climate change by enhancing implementation of the Convention’ was held in Bonn, Germany, from 15-16 May 2006. The event took place prior to the twenty-fourth sessions of the Subsidiary Bodies (SB 24) of the UNFCCC (18-26 May) and the first session of the Ad Hoc Working Group (AWG) on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (17-25 May). Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE FOURTH UNFCCC CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES, 11 NOVEMBER 1998

    The Fourth Plenary of the COP met to hear statements from the Under-Secretary General of the UN, the President of Argentina and representatives from inter-governmental agencies, observer States and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Delegates considered the final reports of the SBI and SBSTA and organizational matters. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE WORKSHOP ON BEST PRACTICES IN POLICIES AND MEASURES: 11-13 APRIL 2000

    The Workshop on Best Practices in Policies and Measures under the Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) was held from 11-13 April 2000, at the Eigtvedts Pakhus, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Copenhagen, Denmark. The Workshop aimed to: clarify the concept of best practices in policies and measures; identify the criteria used by countries to select, monitor and evaluate these practices; and enable countries to improve and enhance their reporting on best practice policies and measures. Read More
  • CLIMATE CHANGE CONVENTION COP-1 HIGHLIGHTS:: WEDNESDAY, 29 MARCH 1995

    COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE The COW met all day to discuss Agenda Item 5(a)(iii), review of adequacy of Article 4.2(a) and (b), including proposals relating to a protocol and decisions on follow-up. Amb. Estrada summarized the Bureau’s discussion about improving NGO access, explaining that the afternoon session would take... Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE COPENHAGEN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE, 7-19 DECEMBER 2009

    The United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark took place from 7-19 December 2009. It included the fifteenth Conference of the Parties (COP 15) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the fifth Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (COP/MOP 5). COP 15 and COP/MOP 5 were held in conjunction with the thirty-first sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA 31) and the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI 31), the tenth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP 10) and the eighth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the UNFCCC (AWG-LCA 8). The Copenhagen Conference marked the culmination of a two-year negotiating process to enhance international climate change cooperation under the Bali Roadmap, launched by COP 13 in December 2007. Close to 115 world leaders attended the joint COP and COP/MOP high-level segment from 16-18 December, marking one of the largest gatherings of world leaders outside of New York. The conference was subject to unprecedented public and media attention, and more than 40,000 people, representing governments, nongovernmental organizations, intergovernmental organizations, faith-based organizations, media and UN agencies applied for accreditation at the conference. Many hoped that the Copenhagen Climate Conference would be able to seal the deal and result in a fair, ambitious and equitable agreement, setting the world towards a path to avoid dangerous climate change. To this end, what many characterized as intense negotiations took place over the two weeks at the level of experts, Ministers and Heads of State. But it was not without controversy. Questions concerning transparency and process played out during the meeting. Differences emerged, inter alia , on whether work should be carried out in a smaller friends of the chair format as well as on a proposal by the Danish COP Presidency to table two texts reflecting the work done by the AWGs. Many parties rejected this idea, urging that only texts developed in the AWGs by parties should be used. During the high-level segment, informal negotiations took place in a group consisting of major economies and representatives of regional groups. Late on Friday evening, these talks resulted in political agreement entitled the Copenhagen Accord, which was not based on the texts developed by either of the AWGs. Details of the agreement were widely reported by the media before the COP closing plenary. While most reports highlighted that Heads of State had been able to seal the deal, almost everyone participating in the negotiations openly admitted that it was far from a perfect agreement. During the closing COP plenary, which lasted nearly 13 hours, long and what many characterized as acrimonious discussions ensued on the transparency of the process that had led to the conclusion of the Copenhagen Accord and on whether the COP should adopt it. Most negotiating groups supported its adoption as a COP decision in order to operationalize it as a step towards a better future agreement. Some developing countries, however, opposed the Accord reached during what they characterized as an untransparent and undemocratic negotiating process. During informal negotiations facilitated by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon during the night and early morning, parties agreed to adopt a COP decision whereby the COP takes note of the Copenhagen Accord, which was attached to the decision as an unofficial document. Parties also agreed to establish a procedure whereby countries supporting the Copenhagen Accord can accede to it. Many recognized the historical significance of the Copenhagen Conference, highlighting its unprecedented success in bringing together the majority of the world s leaders to consider climate change and listing mitigation actions pledged by developed and developing countries, as well as provisions on finance and technology. Most delegates, however, left Copenhagen disappointed at what they saw as a weak agreement, and questioning its practical implications given that the Copenhagen Accord had not been formally adopted as the outcome of the negotiations. Read More
  • UNFCCC SB-16 HIGHLIGHTS, MONDAY, 10 JUNE 2002

    The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) convened for its opening meeting on Monday morning, followed by a further session in the afternoon. The SBI addressed organizational matters, national communications, the financial mechanism, preparations for the WSSD, arrangements for intergovernmental meetings, and administrative and financial matters. Read More
  • TWENTY-EIGHTH SESSIONS OF THE UNFCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES, SECOND SESSION OF THE AD HOC WORKING GROUP UNDER THE CONVENTION, AND FIFTH SESSION OF THE AD HOC WORKING GROUP UNDER THE KYOTO PROTOCOL, 2-13 JUNE 2008

    During the first two weeks of June, delegates convened in Bonn, Germany, to participate in four meetings as part of ongoing negotiations under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and Kyoto Protocol. The second session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA 2), and the resumed fifth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP 5) took place from 2-12 June. The twenty-eighth sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) and the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) of the UNFCCC were held from 4-13 June. Over 2000 people participated in the meetings, including 1314 government officials, 713 representatives of UN bodies and agencies, intergovernmental organizations and non-governmental organizations, and 34 media representatives. The meetings were part of ongoing discussions to enhance international cooperation on climate change, including for the period after 2012, when the Kyoto Protocol s first commitment period expires. The AWG-LCA was established in 2007 at the 13th Conference of the Parties (COP 13) in Bali, Indonesia, and agreed on its 2008 work programme during its first meeting in April 2008. At its second session, the AWG-LCA shifted its focus towards more substantive topics, with three workshops to help delegates consider adaptation, finance, and technology. Parties also started discussions on a shared vision for long-term cooperative action, climate change mitigation, and the AWG-LCA s work programme for 2009. The AWG-KP, which was established in 2005 to consider Annex I parties commitments under the Protocol after 2012, focused on the means for Annex I countries to reach emission reduction targets, with delegates addressing four specific issues: the flexible mechanisms; land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); greenhouse gases, sectors and source categories; and possible approaches targeting sectoral emissions. Parties also considered relevant methodological issues. The SBI and SBSTA took up a range of issues, some related to their regular, ongoing work under UNFCCC and Kyoto Protocol, and some more closely connected to the post-2012 discussions. The SBI examined subjects such as capacity building, technology transfer and preparations for the second review of the Protocol under Article 9. SBSTA s agenda included items on technology transfer and reducing emissions from deforestation in developing countries. The Bonn meetings had no major deadlines on substantive issues. However, it was the first time that the four subsidiary bodies - AWG-LCA , AWG-KP , SBI and SBSTA - had all met in parallel, presenting challenges in terms of the proliferation of issues and contact groups. Collectively, these meetings resulted in the adoption of 30 conclusions and 4 draft decisions that will be forwarded to the COP or COP/MOP in December 2008, in Poznan, Poland, for their consideration. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE BONN CLIMATE TALKS, 2-6 AUGUST 2010

    From 2-6 August 2010, delegates met in Bonn, Germany, for the eleventh session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (AWG-LCA 11) and the thirteenth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP 13). Over 1650 participants, including 1154 from parties, 457 from observer organizations and 42 from the media, attended the meeting. The AWG-LCA considered a text circulated by the Group s Chair in July 2010 (FCCC/AWGLCA/2010/8). The text was intended to facilitate negotiations in preparation for an outcome at the sixteenth Conference of the Parties (COP 16) to the UNFCCC in Cancún, Mexico, in December 2010. The text contained sections on various issues, including a shared vision on long-term cooperation, mitigation, adaptation, finance, technology and capacity building. Parties proposed many new additions and options to the text. The AWG-KP focused on the scale of emission reductions from Annex I parties to the Protocol. It also considered legal issues, including a possible gap between the Protocol s first commitment period (2008-2012) and subsequent commitment periods. As well, delegates addressed land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF), the flexibility mechanisms and the potential consequences of response measures of climate change. The AWG-KP closed with an agreement to forward a Chair s proposal (FCCC/KP/AWG/2010/CRP.2) for further discussion at its next session. The text contains various draft decisions for the sixth Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (COP/MOP 6), setting out many different options and proposals from parties. These decisions, which are not yet agreed, focus on the following topics: amendments to the Protocol under Article 3.9 (subsequent commitment periods); LULUCF; emissions trading and the project-based mechanisms; methodological issues; and the potential environmental, economic and social consequences of Annex I parties response measures to climate change. The AWG-LCA and AWG-KP texts that were developed in Bonn are expected to form the basis for negotiations in Tianjin, China, in October, where delegates will seek to narrow down options and produce outcomes to be considered in Cancún. Read More
  • TWENTY-SECOND SESSIONS OF THE SUBSIDIARY BODIES OF THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 19-27 MAY 2005

    The twenty-second sessions of the Subsidiary Bodies (SB-22) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) take place from 19-27 May 2005, at the Maritim Hotel in Bonn, Germany. SB-22 will be the first Subsidiary Bodies meetings since the entry into force of the Kyoto Protocol in February 2005. Read More
  • TWENTY-SECOND SESSION OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 9-11 NOVEMBER 2004

    The 22nd session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) will begin today at the Ashok Hotel in New Delhi, India, to continue deliberations on its Fourth Assessment Report (AR4) due to be published in 2007. During the meeting, delegates will discuss, inter alia, the scope, content and process for an AR4 Synthesis Report; AR4 products; outreach; the IPCC Programme and Budget for 2005 to 2008; and election procedures. Delegates are also expected to hear progress reports on: Working Group contributions to the AR4; the Special Report on Safeguarding the Ozone Layer and the Global Climate System; the Special Report on Carbon Dioxide Capture and Storage; the 2006 IPCC Guidelines for National Greenhouse Gas Inventories; and the Task Group on Data and Scenario Support for Impact and Climate Analysis (TGICA). Read More
  • UNFCCC TECHNICAL WORKSHOP ON ADVANCING THE INTEGRATION OF APPROACHES TO ADAPTATION PLANNING, 12-14 OCTOBER 2009

    The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) held a Technical Workshop on Advancing the Integration of Approaches to Adaptation Planning from 12-14 October 2009, in Bangkok, Thailand. The workshop, which is under the Nairobi Work Programme on Impacts, Vulnerability and Adaptation to Climate Change (NWP), was mandated by the UNFCCC s Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA). It brought together nearly 70 participants, representing governments, and intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations, to discuss integrating and expanding adaptation planning at national, subnational and local levels, and to exchange views on lessons learned, good practices, gaps, needs, barriers and constraints to adaptation. The workshop aimed to advance the subthemes contained in decision 2/CP.11, including in subparagraph b(ii) Collecting, analyzing and disseminating information on past and current practical adaptation actions and measures, including adaptation projects, short and long-term adaptation strategies, and local and indigenous knowledge, and b(iv) Facilitating communication and cooperation among and between parties and relevant organizations, business, civil society, decision makers and other stakeholders. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE INTER-REGIONAL WORKSHOP OF THE CONSULTATIVE GROUP OF EXPERTS ON INITIAL NATIONAL COMMUNICATIONS FROM PARTIES NOT INCLUDED IN ANNEX I TO THE UNFCCC: 19-22 MARCH 2001

    The Inter-Regional Workshop of the Consultative Group of Experts (CGE) on Initial National Communications from Parties not included in Annex I to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) met from 19-22 March 2001, in Panama City, Panama. The CGE was established by decision 8/CP.5 with the aim of improving national communications for non-Annex I Parties. The CGE is composed of 24 experts, five from each non-Annex I region (Africa, Asia, and Latin America and the Caribbean), six Annex I Party experts, plus three experts from regional organizations. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 7 AND AWG-KP 9 HIGHLIGHTS

    Throughout Monday, various contact groups and informal consultations were held to consider adaptation, mitigation, finance, technology and a shared vision under the AWG-LCA, as well as Annex I emission reductions and other issues under the AWG-KP. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 7 AND AWG-KP 9 HIGHLIGHTS

    The Bangkok Climate Change Talks opened on Monday morning with a welcoming ceremony. In the morning, the AWG-KP opening plenary took place, followed by the AWG-LCA opening plenary. In the afternoon, contact groups convened to consider adaptation, technology, mitigation and finance under the AWG-LCA and Annex I emission reductions, other issues and potential consequences under the AWG-KP. Read More
  • FIFTH CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE, 25 OCTOBER - 5 NOVEMBER 1999

    The Fifth Conference of the Parties (COP-5) to the Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) will meet from 25 October - 5 November 1999 in Bonn, Germany. Approximately 4000 participants, including 80 - 100 ministers, are expected to attend. A high-level segment for ministers and heads of delegation will take place from 2 - 4 November. Delegates to COP-5 will work toward fulfilling the Buenos Aires Plan of Action (BAPA) adopted at the Fourth Conference of the Parties (COP-4) in November 1998. Under the BAPA, Parties set a two-year deadline for strengthening FCCC implementation and preparing for the future entry into force of the Kyoto Protocol. The eleventh meeting of the Subsidiary Body on Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA-11) will consider issues such as: guidelines for preparation of Annex I communications; development and transfer of technologies; and land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF). The Subsidiary Body for Implementation’s eleventh meeting (SBI-11) will consider issues such as non-Annex I communications, the financial mechanism and the programme budget for 2000 - 2001. SBI and SBSTA will jointly consider issues related to the Protocol’s cooperative mechanisms, compliance, capacity building and FCCC Articles 4.8 and 4.9 (adverse effects). Read More
  • CANCUN HIGHLIGHTS

    On Wednesday morning, the COP and COP/MOP held informal stocktaking plenary sessions. In addition, contact groups and informal consultations met throughout the day under the COP, COP/MOP, AWG-LCA and AWG-KP. Meanwhile, the high-level segment continued with statements from heads of states, governments and delegations. A webcast of all statements is available online at: http://webcast.cc2010.mx Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE ELEVENTH CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE AND FIRST CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES SERVING AS THE MEETING OF THE PARTIES TO THE KYOTO PROTOCOL: 28 NOVEMBER – 10 DECEMBER 2005

    The eleventh Conference of the Parties (COP 11) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the first Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (COP/MOP 1) took place in Montreal, Canada, from 28 November to 10 December 2005. The event drew 9500 participants, including 2800 government officials, over 5800 representatives of UN bodies and agencies, intergovernmental organizations and non-governmental organizations, and 817 accredited members of the media. Read More
  • COP 14 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Thursday, the AWG-KP met to discuss various agenda items and the COP/MOP took up the review of the Protocol under Article 9 and the report of the Compliance Committee. The AWG-LCA held a workshop on risk management and risk reduction strategies. Contact groups and informal consultations were held on the AWG-KP , technology transfer, spillover effects, the CDM, AWG-LCA mitigation, carbon capture and storage (CCS) under the CDM, compliance, REDD, the financial mechanism, the Adaptation Fund Board, and Protocol Articles 2.3 and 3.14 (adverse effects). Read More
  • REPORT OF THE MEETINGS OF THE SUBSIDIARY BODIES TO THE FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE 28 JULY - 7 AUGUST 1997

    The subsidiary bodies to the Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) met from 28 July - 7 August 1997 at the Hotel Maritim in Bonn, Germany. A total of 145 Parties and Observer States participated in the session, as well as 691 representatives from NGOs and the media. The seventh session of the Ad Hoc Group on the Berlin Mandate (AGBM-7) further streamlined the negotiating text for a protocol or another legal instrument. The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI-6) reached agreement on arrangements for intergovernmental meetings and the programme budget, but will have to further discuss the financial mechanism and national communications at its next meeting. Read More
  • REPORT OF THE MEETINGS OF THE FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES: 20 - 31 OCTOBER 1997

    The Subsidiary Bodies of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) met from 20-31 October 1997 at the Beethovenhalle in Bonn, Germany. The eighth session of Ad Hoc Group on the Berlin Mandate (AGBM-8), the last session prior to the third meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP-3), opened on 22 October and suspended on 31 October. The seventh sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI-7) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technical Advice (SBSTA-7) met from 20-29 October. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE 33RD SESSION OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE, 10-13 MAY 2011

    The 33rd session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) was held from 10-13 May 2011 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The session was attended by 331 participants, including 276 representatives from governments and 39 delegates from UN, intergovernmental, and observer organizations. Participants focused primarily on the work of the four Task Groups resulting from the consideration of the InterAcademy Council (IAC) Review of the IPCC processes and procedures, namely those on: procedures; governance and management; conflict of interest policy; and communications strategy. The Panel decided to establish an Executive Committee, adopted a Conflict of Interest Policy, and introduced several changes to the rules of procedure. The Panel also accepted the Summary for Policy Makers (SPM) of the Special Report on Renewable Energy Sources and Climate Change Mitigation (SRREN) approved by Working Group III, and addressed issues such as the programme and budget, matters related to other international bodies, and progress reports. Read More
  • COP 12 AND COP/MOP 2 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Saturday, delegates met in contact groups and informal consultations on a range of issues, including the adaptation programme of work, Annex I and non-Annex I communications, AWG, the Belarus proposal, capacity building, deforestation, education and public awareness (UNFCCC Article 6), HCFC-22 and HFC-23 , privileges and immunities, research and systematic observation, response measures, review of the Protocol (Article 9), technology transfer, the financial mechanism, and administrative, financial and institutional matters. Read More
  • BONN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE, 14 - 25 MAY 2012

    Opening today, negotiations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Kyoto Protocol are scheduled to continue in Bonn, Germany, until 25 May 2012. The conference comprises the 36th sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA). It also includes the 15th session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA), the 17th session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP) and the first session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action (ADP). The ADP will meet from 17 to 24 May. Drawing, inter alia , on party submissions (FCCC/ADP/2012/MISC.3), the new body is expected to start planning its work, including on mitigation, adaptation, finance, technology development and transfer, transparency of action and support, and capacity building. The ADP is also expected to consider a workplan on enhancing mitigation ambition and elect its Chair, Vice-Chair and Rapporteur. Meeting from 15-24 May, the AWG-LCA is expected to focus on preparation of an agreed comprehensive and balanced outcome for adoption at the 18th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 18). It will also organize five in-session workshops on: equitable access to sustainable development; clarification of developed country emission reduction targets; further understanding the diversity of developing countries nationally appropriate mitigation actions (NAMAs); various approaches; and a new market-based mechanism. Meeting from 15-24 May, the AWG-KP is expected to focus on Annex I parties further commitments, including quantified emission limitation or reduction objectives (QELROs), carry-over of assigned amount units (AAUs) and proposed amendments to the Protocol and its annexes. The SBI and SBSTA will both meet from 14 to 25 May. The SBI provisional agenda (FCCC/SBI/2012/1) includes items, inter alia , on: national communications; NAMAs; finance; national adaptation plan; loss and damage; response measures; technology; appeals against the decisions of the Executive Board of the Clean Development Mechanism; arrangements for intergovernmental meetings; and administrative, financial and institutional matters. The SBSTA provisional agenda (FCCC/SBSTA/2012/1) contains items, inter alia , on: the Nairobi Work Programme on impacts, vulnerability and adaptation; technology; research and systematic observation; response measures; agriculture; various methodological issues; as well as scientific, technical and socio-economic aspects of mitigation. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MEETINGS OF THE FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES, 24-25 OCTOBER 1997

    Delegates to the eighth session of the Ad Hoc Group on the Berlin Mandate (AGBM-8) held ‘non-group’ meetings Friday on quantified emission limitation and reduction objectives (QELROs) and policies and measures. The seventh session of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technical Advice (SBSTA-7) considered: cooperation with international organizations; the roster of experts; activities implemented jointly (AIJ); technology transfer; national communications and methodological issues. The Chair of the AGBM convened a briefing for observers. AGBM non-groups continued their discussions on Saturday, 25 October.. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 14 AND AWG-KP 16 HIGHLIGHTS

    The UN Climate Change Conference continued on Thursday in Panama City. Informal and spin-off groups convened throughout the day under the AWG-LCA and AWG-KP. Under the AWG-LCA, informal groups took place on developed country mitigation, developing country NAMAs, the Review, legal options, adaptation, finance, shared vision and technology. Under the AWG-KP, spin-off groups convened on Annex I emission reductions, mechanisms and LULUCF. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE DOHA CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE, 26 NOVEMBER – 8 DECEMBER 2012

    The United Nations Climate Change Conference in Doha, Qatar, took place from 26 November to 8 December 2012. It included the eighteenth session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 18) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the eighth session of the Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (CMP 8). The conference also included meetings by five subsidiary bodies: the thirty-seventh sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA 37) and the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI 37), the second part of the seventeenth session of the Ad hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP 17), the second part of the fifteenth session of the Ad hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the UNFCCC (AWG-LCA 15) and the second part of the Ad hoc Working Group on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action (ADP 1). Marking the first time that UN climate change negotiations took place in the Middle East, the conference drew approximately 9,000 participants, including 4,356 government officials, 3,956 representatives of UN bodies and agencies, intergovernmental organizations and civil society organizations, and 683 members of the media. Negotiations in Doha focused on ensuring the implementation of agreements reached at previous conferences. The package of Doha Climate Gateway decisions adopted on the evening of Saturday, 8 December, included amendments to the Kyoto Protocol to establish its second commitment period. Having been launched at CMP 1 in 2005, the AWG-KP terminated its work in Doha. The parties also agreed to terminate the AWG-LCA and negotiations under the Bali Action Plan. Key elements of the outcome also included agreement to consider loss and damage, such as institutional mechanism to address loss and damage in developing countries that are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change. While developing countries and observers expressed disappointment with the lack of ambition in outcomes on Annex I countries mitigation and finance, most agreed that the conference had paved the way for a new phase, focusing on the implementation of the outcomes from negotiations under the AWG-KP and AWG-LCA, and advancing negotiations under the ADP. Read More
  • SB 30 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning, the AWG-LCA met in an informal plenary . Throughout the day, various contact groups and informal consultations took place under the AWG-KP, AWG-LCA, SBI and SBSTA. Read More
  • COP 13 AND COP/MOP 3 HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning and afternoon, the COP/MOP convened in plenary to consider issues relating to the CDM , joint implementation (JI) , the second review of the Protocol under Article 9 , the compliance committee , and various other matters . Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MEETING OF THE FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES, 3 JUNE 1998

    The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technical Advice (SBSTA) met in a joint Plenary session in the morning to continue discussions on mechanisms for cooperative implementation. In the afternoon, SBSTA discussed cooperation with relevant international organizations and national communications. SBI began discussions on the second review of the adequacy of commitments and amendments to Annexes I and II. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-10 HIGHLIGHTS

    Delegates to COP-10 held final contact group meetings on Tuesday morning and afternoon, convening in evening and night SBSTA and SBI meetings to complete their work and adopt conclusions and approve draft decisions to be forwarded to the COP. Numerous draft decisions contain brackets and were forwarded to the COP Presidency for further consultations. Contact groups addressed scientific, technical and socioeconomic aspects of mitigation to climate change (mitigation), capacity building, technology transfer, matters relating to least developed countries (LDCs), progress on the implementation of decision 5/CP.7 (adverse effects), and the UNFCCC’s financial mechanism. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE WORKSHOP ON COMPLIANCE UNDER THE KYOTO PROTOCOL: 1-3 MARCH 2000

    The Workshop on Compliance under the Kyoto Protocol to the Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) was held from 1-3 March 2000 at the Wissenschaftszentrum, Bonn, Germany. The Workshop was designed to assist in the development of elements of procedures and mechanisms relating to a compliance system for in-depth consideration at forthcoming meetings of the Joint Working Group on Compliance (JWG). The workshop was organized by the FCCC Secretariat and the Co-Chairs of the JWG. Eighty-one participants attended the workshop, including representatives of governments, inter- governmental organizations (IGOs) and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE SIXTH CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 13-25 NOVEMBER 2000

    The Sixth Conference of the Parties (COP-6) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the resumed thirteenth sessions of the UNFCCC’s subsidiary bodies were held in The Hague, the Netherlands, from 13-25 November 2000. Over 7,000 participants from 182 governments, 323 intergovernmental and non- governmental organizations, and 443 media outlets were in attendance. The meeting aimed to set the operational details for commitments on reducing emissions of greenhouse gases under the 1997 Kyoto Protocol, and to reach agreement on actions to strengthen implementation of the UNFCCC itself. In attempting to achieve these goals, the meeting was intended to bring to a close more than two years of preparations and negotiations set out in the UNFCCC’s 1998 Buenos Aires Plan of Action. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-9 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Wednesday, the high-level segment of COP-9 opened. Delegates heard statements from heads of UN bodies and specialized agencies, intergovernmental organizations and NGOs. In the afternoon, the first high-level round-table took place, focusing on ‘climate change, adaptation, mitigation and sustainable development.’ In the evening, the SBI met to adopt conclusions and agree draft COP decisions and to complete its work. Contact groups on implementation of activities under decision 5/CP.7 (implementation of UNFCCC Article 4.8 and 4.9 on adverse effects) and the Special Climate Change Fund (SCCF) were also held. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE THIRTEENTH SESSIONS OF THE SUBSIDIARY BODIES OF THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE, 4-15 SEPTEMBER 2000

    The first part of the thirteenth sessions of the subsidiary bodies (SB-13) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) was held from 11-15 September 2000, at the Palais des Congrès in Lyon, France, preceded by one week of informal meetings from 4-9 September. With over 2000 participants representing 159 Parties, one observer State, 169 observer organizations and the media, delegates to SB-13 and the informal meetings continued work aimed at fulfilling the Buenos Aires Plan of Action (BAPA) adopted at the Fourth Conference of the Parties (COP-4) in November 1998. Under the BAPA, Parties set a two-year deadline to strengthen FCCC implementation and prepare for the future entry into force of the Kyoto Protocol. The upcoming Sixth Conference of the Parties (COP-6), scheduled to take place from 13-24 November 2000, in The Hague, the Netherlands, will mark the culmination of this two-year process. The first part of SB-13 closed when the meeting was suspended on 15 September. SB-13 will resume in The Hague in November. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-10 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Monday, delegates to COP-10 met in contact groups throughout the day, in an effort to complete work by the closure of SBSTA-21 and SBI-21 scheduled for Tuesday, 14 December. SBI contact groups addressed UNFCCC Article 6 (education, training and public awareness), and progress on the implementation of decision 5/CP.7 (adverse effects). SBSTA contact groups took up: registry systems under Protocol Article 7.4; technology transfer; good practice guidance (GPG) for LULUCF activities, harvested wood products (HWP) and other issues relating to LULUCF; scientific, technical and socioeconomic aspects of mitigation (mitigation); and scientific, technical and socioeconomic aspects of impacts of, and vulnerability and adaptation to, climate change (adaptation). Informal consultations were held on numerous issues, including matters related to the least developed countries (LDCs), the financial mechanism and capacity building. Read More
  • DURBAN HIGHLIGHTS

    Delegates met in contact groups and for informal consultations on a wide range of agenda items under the COP, COP/MOP, AWG-LCA, AWG-KP, SBI and SBSTA. In many cases, negotiators began working on texts that are expected to form the basis of outcomes from these bodies in Durban. Read More
  • Bonn Climate Change Conference

    On Monday, 8 June, the Bonn Climate Change Conference continued. In the morning, the ADP contact group took stock of progress and exchanged views on a draft decision 1/CP.21 (the Paris package). Facilitated groups on time frames, capacity building and technology convened in the afternoon, and on time frames, transparency and the preamble in the evening. Read More
  • SB 36 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning and afternoon, the opening plenary of the Ad Hoc Working Group on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action (ADP) was held. The AWG-LCA opening plenary also convened in the evening, followed by the AWG-LCA contact group. In the afternoon, an in-session workshop took place under the AWG-LCA on developed countries quantified economy-wide emission reduction targets and related assumptions and conditions. In the morning and afternoon, a number of contact groups and informal consultations took place under the SBI and SBSTA. Read More
  • SB 36 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    In the afternoon, the AWG-KP closing plenary convened. The AWG-LCA closing plenary took place in the evening. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS OF FCCC COP-2: WEDNESDAY, 10 JULY 1996

    The third day of the Second Conference of the Parties (COP- 2) to the Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) commenced with a meeting of the Ad Hoc Group on Article 13 (AG-13) and a brief meeting of the Plenary to elect officers and discuss the agenda for the Ministerial Segment. The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) met all day, while the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) met in the afternoon, following an informal morning meeting on budgetary matters. Read More
  • AWG-LCA AND AWG-KP highlights

    In the afternoon, the AWG-LCA convened a mid-week stocktaking meeting. Throughout Wednesday, several informal groups under the AWG-LCA and the AWG-KP met to discuss issues including adaptation, shared vision, mitigation, Annex I parties emission reductions, LULUCF and the flexibility mechanisms. Read More
  • COP 13 AND COP/MOP 3 HIGHLIGHTS

    Contact groups and informal consultations were held throughout the day on a wide range of issues, including:AWG , second review of the Protocol under Article 9 ; long-term action under the Convention ; the Adaptation Fund ; Annex I and non-Annex I communications ; the Buenos Aires programme of work on adaptation and response measures (decision 1/CP.10) ; capacity building ; carbon capture and storage under the CDM; the financial mechanism; LDCs; the Nairobi work programme on impacts , vulnerability and adaptation; privileges and immunities ; reducing emissions from deforestation ; and technology transfer . Read More
  • IPCC-24 HIGHLIGHTS

    The twenty-fourth session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC-24) opened on Monday, 26 September, in Montreal, Canada. In the morning, delegates heard opening addresses, adopted the IPCC-23 draft report, approved the actions of WGIII-8 on the CCS Special Report, and commenced discussions on the IPCC programme and budget for 2006-08. In the afternoon, delegates heard progress reports on: the activities of Working Groups I, II and III; the AR4 Synthesis Report; the Task Group on Data and Scenarios Support for Impact and Climate Analysis (TGICA), National Greenhouse Gas Inventories Programme (NGGIP), and commenced discussion of the election procedures for the IPCC and Task Force Bureaus. The Financial Task Team also met at lunch time to consider the IPCC programme and budget for 2006-08. Read More
  • COP 11 AND COP/MOP 1 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Wednesday, delegates convened in COP and COP/MOP plenary meetings and in contact groups. The COP discussed deforestation in developing countries and the procedure for appointing an Executive Secretary. COP/MOP adopted a package of 21 decisions forwarded by the COP to operationalize the Kyoto Protocol as agreed under the Marrakesh Accords. COP/MOP also considered the report of the Executive Board of the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), joint implementation (JI), compliance, Protocol Article 3.9 (future commitments), and various other matters. Contact groups met on the financial mechanism, LULUCF, education, training and public awareness, technology transfer, compliance, adaptation, and LDCs. Read More
  • SEVENTH CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 29 OCTOBER TO 9 NOVEMBER 2001

    The Seventh Conference of the Parties (COP-7) to the 1992 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) begins today at the Palais des Congrès in Marrakesh, Morocco. Delegates will focus on finalizing an agreement on the operational details for commitments on reducing emissions of greenhouse gases under the 1997 Kyoto Protocol. In seeking such an agreement, they will continue negotiations held over the past three years, and will base their discussions on political principles - the Bonn Agreements - approved by ministers and other senior government officials at COP-6 Part II in July in Bonn, Germany. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 14 AND AWG-KP 16 HIGHLIGHTS

    The UN Climate Change Conference continued on Monday morning with a meeting of the AWG-LCA contact group to provide progress reports. The AWG-KP spin-off group on Annex I emission reductions also took place. Several AWG-LCA informal groups convened in the morning and afternoon on: finance; various approaches, including opportunities for using markets, to enhance the cost-effectiveness of, and to promote, mitigation; and sectoral approaches and sector-specific actions. In the afternoon, AWG-LCA informal groups met to discuss response measures, REDD+, developed country mitigation and developing country NAMAs. AWG-KP spin-off groups on LULUCF and the flexibility mechanisms also convened. A special information event on fast-start finance organized, by the UNFCCC. took place in the afternoon. Read More
  • SB 36 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    A number of contact groups and informal consultations were held under the SBI, SBSTA, AWG-KP, AWG-LCA and ADP throughout the day. Read More
  • COP 12 AND COP/MOP 2 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Tuesday, the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG) convened throughout the day for an in-session workshop focused on the scientific basis for further Annex I commitments, and on Annex I parties ‘ emissions trends and mitigation potential. In addition, SBSTA convened in the morning to consider emissions from deforestation in developing countries, research and systematic observation, methodological issues under the UNFCCC and Kyoto Protocol, and various other matters. SBI met in the afternoon to take up issues relating to the UNFCCC’s financial mechanism, education and public awareness, capacity building, and the adverse impacts of climate change and response measures (UNFCCC Article 4.8 and 4.9). Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES MEETINGS, Thursday, 3 JUNE 1999

    The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) discussed methodological issues and the development and transfer of technology. The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) considered administrative and financial matters and Annex I communications. A Joint Working Group on compliance under the Protocol met in the afternoon. Contact groups were convened on: guidelines for Annex I communications; land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); and, activities implemented jointly (AIJ). Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE UNFCCC FOURTH CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES, 3 NOVEMBER 1998

    The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) discussed matters related to land-use change and forestry (LUCF) and considered a draft decision on single projects. The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) deliberated organizational matters and convened a contact group on implementation of Articles 4.8 and 4.9 of the Convention (decision 3/CP.3 and Articles 2.3 and 3.14 of the Kyoto Protocol). A joint SBSTA/SBI focused on, inter alia, matters related to the Kyoto Protocol’s flexibility mechanisms. Read More
  • UNFCCC SB-20 HIGHLIGHTS

    Delegates to SB-20 met in numerous SBSTA and SBI contact groups throughout the day on Tuesday. In the morning, Parties discussed good practice guidance (GPG) on LULUCF, capacity building, research and systematic observation (R&SO), and UNFCCC Article 6 (education, training and public awareness). In the afternoon, delegates addressed non-Annex I national communications, technology transfer, small-scale afforestation and reforestation (A&R) project activities under the CDM, and scientific, technical and socioeconomic aspects of impacts of, and vulnerability and adaptation to, climate change (adaptation). In the evening, Parties met to discuss policies and measures (P&Ms), implementation of decision 5/CP.7 (implementation of UNFCCC Article 4.8 and 4.9 on adverse effects), and scientific, technical and socioeconomic aspects of mitigation (mitigation). Read More
  • FIFTH SESSION OF THE AD HOC WORKING GROUP ON LONG-TERM COOPERATIVE ACTION UNDER THE CONVENTION AND SEVENTH SESSION OF THE AD HOC WORKING GROUP ON FURTHER COMMITMENTS FOR ANNEX I PARTIES UNDER THE KYOTO PROTOCOL, 29 MARCH – 8 APRIL 2009

    The fifth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA 5) and the seventh session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (AWG-KP 7) begin today and will continue until Wednesday, 8 April 2009 in Bonn, Germany. At its fifth meeting , the AWG-LCA is expected to concentrate on a note prepared by the AWG-LCA Chair to focus the negotiation process on the fulfillment of the Bali Action Plan and on the components of the agreed outcome ( FCCC/AWGLCA/2009/4 , Parts I and II). The AWG-LCA will also convene three in-session workshops on sub-paragraphs 1(b) i and ii of the Bali Action Plan (mitigation by developed and developing countries), response measures, and mitigation in the agricultural sector. At its seventh session, the AWG-KP will seek to adopt conclusions on the aggregate scale of emission reductions by Annex I parties beyond 2012, and reach conclusions on a draft amendment text related to further commitments. The AWG-KP is also expected to take up all issues identified for consideration in 2009 in paragraph 49 of its conclusions from the sixth session ( FCCC/KP/AWG/2008/8 ). Issues in paragraph 49 include: aggregate scale of Annex I parties emission reductions; parties individual or joint contributions to the aggregate scale; mitigation potential; flexibility mechanisms; land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); greenhouse gases, sectors and sources; potential consequences of tools, policies, measures and methodologies; aviation and maritime bunker fuels; and legal matters. The agenda also includes a workshop on the scale of emission reductions (which took place in Bonn on Friday, 27 March) and a workshop on potential consequences. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 12 AND AWG-KP 14 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Wednesday, various drafting groups convened under the AWG-LCA to consider shared vision, adaptation, mitigation, and finance, technology and capacity building. The AWG-LCA contact group convened in the afternoon to take stock of progress. Contact groups and informal discussions under the AWG-KP addressed potential consequences, Annex I emission reductions and other issues. Read More
  • INC-11 HIGHLIGHTS: TUESDAY, 7 FEBRUARY 1995

    WORKING GROUP I Working Group I concluded its deliberations on the review of national communications. Delegates did not want to consider the adequacy of commitments until Wednesday and, thus, the Group adjourned before 4:00 pm. AGENDA ITEM 7(a) REVIEW OF NATIONAL COMMUNICATIONS: Working Group I resumed consideration of the... Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE 28TH SESSION OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE, 9-10 APRIL 2008

    The 28th session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) was held from 9-10 April 2008 in Budapest, Hungary. Meeting for the first time since the release of the Fourth Assessment Report in November 2007, the session brought together representatives from governments, lead authors, UN agencies, non-governmental organizations, industry and academia. Discussions at the session centered on the future of the IPCC , including key aspects of its work programme such as Working Group structure, main type and timing of future reports, and the future structure of the IPCC Bureau and the Bureau of the Task Force on National Greenhouse Gas Inventories (TFB). The Panel also considered, inter alia , a proposal for the use of the funds from the Nobel Peace Prize , jointly awarded to the IPCC and Al Gore in 2007, a review of IPCC Principles , the Programme and Budget for 2009-2011 , admission of observer organizations and outreach , and heard a progress report on emissions scenarios . The IPCC plenary agreed to prepare a Fifth Assessment Report (AR5) and to retain the current structure of its Working Groups. In order to enable significant use of new scenarios in the AR5, the Panel requested the Bureau of the Fifth Assessment cycle to ensure delivery of the Working Group I report by early 2013 and complete the other Working Group reports and the Synthesis Report at the earliest feasible date in 2014. The Panel also agreed to the preparation of a Special Report on Renewable Energy to be completed by 2010 and was presented with the Technical Paper on Climate Change and Water. It deferred discussion on the use of its Nobel Peace Prize funds until IPCC-29. In light of the successes of the IPCC in 2007, there was little time, pressure or momentum to undertake radical modifications; however, the IPCC recognized the importance of adapting to a changing climate and evolving policy needs and opportunities. Read More
  • FCCC COP-5 HIGHLIGHTS, FRIDAY, 29 OCTOBER 1999

    Delegates met in a morning session of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) to continue consideration of research and systematic observation and the roster of experts following discussions on technology transfer and development on Wednesday evening. The Joint Working Group (JWG) on compliance discussed procedures and mechanisms relating to compliance under the Kyoto Protocol. Contact groups met to consider: adverse effects; Annex I communications; capacity building; land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); national systems, adjustments and guidelines under the Protocol; non-Annex I communications; and the Protocol mechanisms. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 5 AND AWG-KP 7 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Monday, the AWG-LCA held contact groups on adaptation , mitigation , shared vision , and technology and finance . The AWG-KP held a contact group and informal consultations on LULUCF , and informal consultations on issues such as Annex I emission reductions , potential consequences , legal matters and the flexibility mechanisms . Read More
  • COP 14 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Tuesday, contact groups resumed on adaptation, mitigation, and delivering on technology and financing under the AWG-LCA . There were also contact groups and informal consultations on the Adaptation Fund , CDM, CCS under the CDM, the financial mechanism , LDC Fund, Nairobi Work Programme, privileges and immunities, Protocol Articles 2.3 and 3.14 (adverse effects), REDD, and review of the Protocol under Article 9. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE 25TH SESSION OF THE OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 26-28 APRIL 2006

    The twenty-fifth session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC-25) took place in Port Louis, Mauritius, from 26-28 April 2006. The meeting was attended by approximately 270 participants representing governments, UN agencies and non- governmental organizations. The meeting saw the acceptance of the 2006 IPCC Guidelines for National Greenhouse Gas Inventories and adoption of its Overview Chapter, thereby realizing several years of work by the IPCC. Delegates also took action in relation to the IPCC programme and budget for 2007-09, further work on emission scenarios, election procedures, a policy and process for admitting observer organizations, the future work programme of the Task Force on National Greenhouse Gas Inventories, consideration of a Special Report on Renewable Energy, and a review of the IPCC’s terms of reference. Discussions also took place on communications and outreach activities, matters related to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and progress toward the Fourth Assessment Report and other IPCC activities. The acceptance of the 2006 Guidelines and the decision on further work on emission scenarios reflected the spirit that characterized IPCC-25, with delegates working hard to overcome differences in order to make progress. These efforts brought the meeting to a close on Friday afternoon with the successful resolution of all agenda items. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 7 AND AWG-KP 9 HIGHLIGHTS

    Throughout Thursday, various contact groups and informal consultations convened to consider adaptation, technology, capacity building, mitigation, finance and a shared vision under the AWG-LCA, and Annex I emission reductions and other issues under the AWG-KP. Read More
  • Bonn Climate Change Conference

    The Bonn Climate Change Conference continued on Tuesday, 9 June. Facilitated groups under the ADP convened on: workstream 2 (pre-2020 ambition) and finance in the morning; mitigation, capacity building and technology in the afternoon; and adaptation and loss and damage, and finance in the evening. Read More
  • THE THIRD CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE, 1 DECEMBER 1997

    The Third Conference of the Parties (COP-3) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) opened on 1 December 1997 in Kyoto, Japan. In a morning Plenary session, participants heard welcoming addresses. In the afternoon, delegates considered reports from the FCCC subsidiary bodies, discussed organizational matters and established a Committee of the Whole (COW). In the evening, the COW established a number of working groups. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM FCCC SB-12, WEDNESDAY, 14 JUNE 2000

    The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) met in the morning to consider Annex I and non-Annex I communications, and the financial mechanism. The Joint Working Group on Compliance (JWG) continued discussions on the Co-Chairs’ text. Contact groups met in afternoon and evening sessions to consider: land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); adverse effects; the mechanisms; and guidelines under Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information). Informal consultations were held on capacity building in developing countries, and on policies and measures. The Friends of the Chair group on the technology transfer consultative process also met. Read More
  • SB 28 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    On Wednesday, the 28th sessions of the Subsidiary Bodies began. The SBI and SBSTA considered most of their agenda items, referring many to contact groups for further discussion. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MEETINGS OF THE FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES, 23 OCTOBER 1997

    Delegates to the eighth session of the Ad Hoc Group on the Berlin Mandate (AGBM-8) met in ‘non-group’ sessions on quantified emission limitation and reduction objectives (QELROs), advancing the implementation of Article 4.1 and institutions, mechanisms and compliance. The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technical Advice (SBSTA-7) held an informal meeting with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). The Chair of the AGBM conducted a briefing for observers on the progress of negotiations. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-8 HIGHLIGHTS

    The Eighth Conference of the Parties (COP-8) to the UNFCCC continued to meet today in sessions of the SBSTA and SBI, COP plenary, and several formal and informal contact groups. An informal exchange of views on the Delhi Declaration was also held. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MEETINGS OF THE FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES, 4 JUNE 1998

    Delegates to the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technical Advice (SBSTA) deliberated on methodological issues, the roster of experts and technology transfer. The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) discussed national communications from non- Annex I Parties, the financial mechanism, adverse effects of climate change and impacts from responses, FCCC finance and administration and NGO participation. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES MEETINGS, FRIDAY, 4 JUNE 1999

    The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) discussed development and transfer of technology and FCCC Articles 4.8 and 4.9 (adverse effects). The Joint Working Group on compliance met in the afternoon. Contact groups were convened on: the budget; Annex I communications; non-Annex I communications; land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); and the Protocol mechanisms. Informal consultations on research and systematic observation were held. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 11 AND AWG-KP 13 HIGHLIGHTS

    The eleventh session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the UNFCCC (AWG-LCA 11) and the thirteenth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP 13) opened on Monday. AWG-KP 13 focused on Annex I emissions reductions, including an in-session workshop on the scale of reductions. AWG-LCA 11 discussed preparation of the outcome to be presented at COP 16, including the Chair s revised text. Read More
  • SB 32 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning and afternoon, contact groups and informal consultations took place on issues including decision 1/CP.10 (Buenos Aires programme of work), review of the Adaptation Fund, arrangements for intergovernmental meetings and capacity building under the SBI, item 3 (preparation of an outcome to be presented to COP 16) under the AWG-LCA and Annex I emission reductions under the AWG-KP. In the morning and afternoon, the SBSTA research dialogue also convened. Read More
  • TECHNICAL WORKSHOP ON MECHANISMS UNDER ARTICLES 6, 12 AND 17 OF THE KYOTO PROTOCOL: 9-15 APRIL 1999

    The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Technical Workshop on Mechanisms under Articles 6, 12 and 17 of the Kyoto Protocol was held from 9-15 April 1999 at La Redoute in Bonn-Bad Godesberg, Germany. The workshop was designed to advance the discussion on technological and methodological aspects of Article 6 (joint implementation), Article 12 (clean development mechanism) and Article 17 (emissions trading) so that the Conference of the Parties can take decisions on all three mechanisms at its sixth session. The workshop was attended by approximately 100 invited participants, which included experts from Parties and representatives from governments, UN agencies, and intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations. Core topics at the workshop included reference case/baseline methodologies, additionality, verification and reporting in relation to the clean development mechanism (CDM) and Article 6 projects. Further issues addressed included the validation and funding of projects under the CDM and the adaptation component, and reporting, verification and accountability issues related to emissions trading. Participants also exchanged views on capacity building for developing country Parties. Read More
  • LIMA HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning, the opening ceremony of the joint COP/CMP high-level segment took place, and high-level statements were delivered throughout the day. In the afternoon, a ministerial roundtable on climate finance convened. Throughout the day, the ADP contact group on item 3 focused on a draft COP decision on advancing the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action. Informal consultations under the COP and CMP took place throughout the day. Read More
  • LIMA HIGHLIGHTS

    On Friday, 5 December, the first part of the closing plenary of the SBI took place in the afternoon and evening. Throughout the day and late into the evening, the ADP contact group on item 3 addressed elements, including, mitigation, transparency of action and support, technology transfer and capacity building, and the draft decision on advancing the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action. Many contact groups and informal consultations took place throughout the day on a number of issues under the COP, CMP, SBSTA and SBI as parties wrapped up work before the closing of the subsidiary bodies. Read More
  • DOHA HIGHLIGHTS

    On Thursday, delegates convened in contact groups, informal consultations and other meetings of the Convention and Protocol bodies throughout the day. Read More
  • SB 34 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning, the SBTA opening plenary convened. The SBI opening plenary took place in the afternoon and evening. In the morning and afternoon, the AWG-LCA workshop on mitigation by developed countries took place. A contact group and various informal meetings were also held under the AWG-LCA throughout the day on issues, including technology, adaptation and shared vision. Read More
  • THE FOURTH MEETING OF THE CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE, 2-13 November 1998

    The Fourth Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP-4) will be held from 2-13 November 1998 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Delegates will discuss the implementation of commitments of the Convention, including national communications, development and transfer of technology, the second review of the adequacy of commitments and activities implemented jointly (AIJ). Delegates will also debate matters related to the Kyoto Protocol, including land-use change and forestry, Article 6 (certified emissions reductions), Article 12 (clean development mechanism) and Article 17 (international emissions trading). Delegates will also discuss voluntary commitments by non-Annex I Parties. A high-level segment is scheduled from 12-13 November 1998. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-6 HIGHLIGHTS, SATURDAY, 18 NOVEMBER 2000

    Delegates met in contact groups and informal consultations during the morning and afternoon to conclude their work. The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) convened in the evening to consider and adopt draft conclusions on several topics, including national communications and the financial mechanism, as well as its report on the session. Following this, the SBI and Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) met jointly to adopt draft conclusions on capacity building, compliance under the Protocol, activities implemented jointly, the Protocol mechanisms, and adverse effects. SBSTA then adopted its draft conclusions on land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); guidelines under Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information); development and transfer of technologies; policies and measures; and cooperation with relevant international organizations. With the conclusion of the formal SBSTA meeting at 11:15 pm, the thirteenth sessions of the UNFCCC subsidiary bodies - which began in Lyon in September and continued from 13-18 November in The Hague - drew to a close. Read More
  • UNFCCC SB-20 HIGHLIGHTS

    Deliberations continued at SB-20 on Saturday, with Parties convening in contact groups and a SBSTA in-session workshop. The contact groups discussed non-Annex I national communications, capacity building and implementation of decision 5/CP.7 (implementation of UNFCCC Article 4.8 and 4.9 on adverse effects). The SBSTA in-session workshop on scientific, technical and socioeconomic aspects of mitigation heard presentations on the relationship of climate change mitigation to other policy and development objectives, case studies of mitigation, and climate mitigation and new technologies. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MEETINGS OF THE FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES 29 JULY 1997

    The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and the Ad Hoc Group on Article 13 (AG13) met in morning and afternoon sessions. SBI discussed national communications, the financial mechanism and arrangements for intergovernmental meetings. The Ad Hoc Group on Article 13 continued discussions on a compilation text on functions and procedures for any multilateral consultative process (MCP). Delegates also met in contact groups to continue discussions on methodological issues and the division of labor between SBSTA and SBI. Read More
  • UNFCCC SB-20 HIGHLIGHTS

    Delegates to SB-20 resumed deliberations on Monday, convening in SBSTA Plenary, numerous contact groups, and two SBSTA events. In Plenary, delegates discussed the two in-session workshops on scientific, technical and socioeconomic aspects of impacts of, and vulnerability and adaptation to, climate change, and scientific, technical and socioeconomic aspects of mitigation (adaptation and mitigation). SBI contact groups discussed UNFCCC Article 6 (education, training and public awareness), arrangements for intergovernmental meetings, non-Annex I national communications, and capacity building. SBSTA contact groups addressed policies and measures (P&Ms), technology transfer, adaptation and mitigation, and small-scale afforestation and reforestation (A&R) project activities under the CDM. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 3 AND AWG-KP 6 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Tuesday morning, delegates convened in a contact group on mitigation and its associated means of implementation , under the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA) , and in AWG-LCA informal consultations on the 2009 work programme. Informal consultations were also convened under the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP) on other issues and on land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF) . In the afternoon, two AWG-LCA contact groups met on adaptation and its associated means of implementation , and on delivering on technology and finance, including consideration of institutional arrangements; and AWG-KP contact groups on LULUCF and on flexible mechanisms also convened in the afternoon and evening. Read More
  • SB 36 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning, the ADP plenary convened. A number of contact groups and informal consultations were held under the SBI, SBSTA, AWG-KP and AWG-LCA throughout the day. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-8 HIGHLIGHTS

    The Eighth Session of the Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC (COP-8) and the Seventeenth Sessions of the COP’s Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) opened on Wednesday, 23 October, in New Delhi, India. The COP Plenary heard opening statements and addressed organizational matters. In its first meeting, the SBSTA addressed organizational matters and methodological issues, including: review of methodological work; guidelines under Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information); guidelines on reporting and review of greenhouse gas inventories from Annex I Parties; special circumstances of Croatia under Article 4.6 (flexibility for countries with economies in transition); and technology transfer. The SBI considered four issues under national communications of non-Annex I Parties, including: improvement of guidelines; work of the Consultative Group of Experts (CGE); consideration of the fourth compilation and synthesis of initial national communications; and provision of financial and technical support. Contact groups were convened to discuss Articles 5, 7 and 8, and the CGE. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MEETINGS OF THE FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES, 11 JUNE 1998

    The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technical Advice (SBSTA) met in the morning and afternoon to adopt decisions. The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) met in the afternoon to consider election of officers, non-Annex I communications, review of information and arrangements for intergovernmental meetings. The Ad Hoc Group on Article 13 (AG13) adopted the report of its meeting. Contact groups continued discussions throughout the day. Read More
  • TWENTY-SEVENTH SESSION OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 12-17 NOVEMBER 2007

    The 27th session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) will begin today at the Museo de las Ciencias in Valencia, Spain, to finalize deliberations on the Fourth Assessment Report (AR4). During the session, delegates will consider the AR4 Synthesis Report (SYR), with a view to approve the Summary for Policymakers of the SYR and adopt the Longer Report of the SYR. Participants will also discuss the future of the IPCC, the IPCC programme and budget 2008-2010, membership of the IPCC Bureau and the Task Force Bureau, and hear progress reports on the IPCC Task Force on National Greenhouse Gas Inventories, Future Work on Scenarios, Technical Paper on Climate Change and Water, Task Group on Data and Scenario Support for Impact and Climate Assessment (TGICA), and Outreach. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MEETINGS OF THE SUBSIDIARY BODIES OF THE FCCC 5 AUGUST 1997

    The Chair of the Ad Hoc Group on the Berlin Mandate (AGBM) held a briefing on the results of the non-group sessions conducted on Friday and Saturday. In a morning Plenary session, delegates reviewed the organization of work and heard NGO statements. The non-group on institutions and mechanisms met immediately after Plenary and in the afternoon. The non-group on QELROs met in the morning and a new non-group on policies and measures met in the afternoon. The Subsidiary Body for Implementation met in the evening to consider outstanding issues. Read More
  • BANGKOK CLIMATE TALKS HIGHLIGHTS

    On Tuesday morning, the ADP Workstream 2 roundtable on ambition for the ADP was held. Contact groups and informal consultations under the AWG-KP and AWG-LCA took place throughout the day. Read More
  • AWG-LCA AND AWG-KP highlights

    Throughout Thursday, several informal groups under the AWG-LCA and the AWG-KP met to discuss issues, including finance, adaptation, mitigation, technology and capacity building, Annex I parties emission reductions, the flexibility mechanisms and potential consequences. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MEETINGS OF THE FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES, MONDAY, 7 JUNE 1999

    The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) held a morning session to discuss arrangements for intergovernmental meetings, including arrangements for COP-5 and COP-6. Contact groups were convened on: the Protocol mechanisms; Annex I communications; non-Annex I communications; and land use, land-use change and forestry. Informal consultations were held on emissions resulting from fuel used for international transport. Read More
  • GENEVA HIGHLIGHTS, Wednesday, 11 February 2015

    Throughout the day, the ADP contact group on item 3 convened, focusing on the structure of the agreement and the way forward in Geneva. Read More
  • BANGKOK CLIMATE CHANGE TALKS, 28 SEPTEMBER - 9 OCTOBER 2009

    From 28 September to 9 October 2009, the first part of the seventh session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (AWG-LCA 7) and the first part of the ninth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP 9) are taking place in Bangkok, Thailand. These sessions form part of ongoing negotiations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Kyoto Protocol to enhance international climate change cooperation. The negotiations are scheduled to conclude at the fifteenth session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 15) to be held in Copenhagen, Denmark, in December 2009. The AWG-LCA is expected to continue focusing on its negotiating text. The scenario note ( FCCC/AWGLCA/2009/12 ) prepared by Chair Michael Zammit Cutajar (Malta) indicates that in order to achieve an ambitious, effective and fair outcome in Copenhagen, the AWG-LCA is required to generate a substantially shorter negotiating text that concentrates negotiations on elements that the parties deem politically essential. The main documents for the session include the revised negotiating text resulting from AWG-LCA 6 ( FCCC/AWGLCA/2009/INF.1 ), and a document reflecting efforts by parties at an informal meeting held in Bonn, Germany, in August and by facilitators, under their own responsibility, to make the negotiating text more manageable ( FCCC/AWGLCA/2009/INF.2 ) by reordering and consolidating its contents. The first part of AWG-KP 9 is expected to focus on the aggregate scale of Annex I parties emission reductions in the post-2012 period and the contribution of Annex I parties to this scale. While the AWG-KP had agreed in its work programme ( FCCC/KP/AWG/2008/8 ) to adopt conclusions on these issues at its seventh and eighth sessions, they are still under consideration. In accordance with the work programme, AWG-KP 9 is also expected to continue considering issues relating to means to reach emission reduction targets, relevant methodological issues and potential consequences, and to consider rules and modalities of possible improvements, as well as any draft COP/MOP decisions or draft Protocol amendments. Read More
  • COP 12 AND COP/MOP 2 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Monday, the COP/MOP plenary convened to consider the Russian proposal on voluntary commitments. There were also contact groups and informal consultations throughout the day and into the night on issues such as the Adaptation Fund, adaptation programme of work, Annex I communications, AWG issues, capacity building, the CDM, Decision 1/CP.10(i n relation to response measures), deforestation, education and public awareness (UNFCCC Article 6), the financial mechanism, Joint Implementation Supervisory Committee (JISC), Kazakhstan’s base year, review of the Protocol (Article 9), Special Climate Change Fund, and technology transfer. Read More
  • UNFCCC SB-18 HIGHLIGHTS

    Delegates to UNFCCC SB-18 continued their deliberations in contact groups and informal drafting groups on Tuesday. Parties discussed: the IPCC TAR; Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information), and 8 (review of information); ‘good practices’ in policies and measures (P&Ms); capacity building; UNFCCC Article 4.8 and 4.9 (adverse effects); the Special Climate Change Fund (SCCF); and the programme budget for the biennium 2004-2005. A number of informal drafting groups also convened in an attempt to complete work before the final SBSTA and SBI plenaries on Thursday, 12 June and Friday, 13 June. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE EIGHTEENTH SESSION OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 24-29 SEPTEMBER 2001

    The eighteenth session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC-18) was held from 24-29 September 2001, in London, UK. Approximately 280 delegates, experts and representatives of international and non-governmental organizations attended the session. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE 31ST SESSION OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PANEL ON CLIMATE CHANGE, 26-29 OCTOBER 2009

    The 31st session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) was held from 26-29 October 2009 in Nusa Dua, Bali, Indonesia, with approximately 350 participants in attendance. The meeting focused primarily on the scoping of the Fifth Assessment Report (AR5). During the meeting, the IPCC s three Working Groups (WGs) convened in parallel sessions to approve the proposed chapter outlines of WG contributions to the AR5, which had been developed by the participants of the AR5 scoping meeting held in Venice, Italy, from 13-17 July 2009. The Panel then accepted the outlines of the WG reports and considered a number of other issues relevant to the scope of the AR5. In particular, delegates agreed to treat Article 2 of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) as a cross-cutting theme in the AR5, as well as revise the timetable for the preparation of the report. The Panel also considered progress on the implementation of decisions taken at IPCC-30 with regard to involving scientists from developing countries and countries with economies in transition (EITs), use of electronic technologies and the longer-term future of the IPCC. The Panel also granted special observer status to the European Community (EC) and addressed progress reports on the development of new scenarios and on the IPCC Peace Prize Scholarship Fund. Read More
  • BANGKOK CLIMATE TALKS HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning, an in-session workshop took place under the AWG-LCA on a framework for various approaches. Under the ADP, a Workstream 2 roundtable on ambition convened. In the afternoon, under the AWG-LCA, an in-session workshop on the new market-based mechanism (NMM) was held and the ADP Workstream1 roundtable on vision for the ADP continued from Thursday. In the morning and afternoon, a number of contact groups and informal consultations under the AWG-KP and AWG-LCA convened. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 5 AND AWG-KP 7 HIGHLIGHTS

    Throughout Wednesday, the AWG-LCA convened an in-session workshop on subparagraphs 1(b)(i) and 1(b)(ii) of the Bali Action Plan (mitigation by developed and developing countries respectively). The AWG-KP held contact groups on potential consequences and on legal matters . Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-9 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Thursday, the second and third high-level round-table discussions took place. Ministers and heads of delegation addressed ‘technology, including technology use and development and transfer of technologies’ and ‘assessment of progress at the national, regional and international levels to fulfill the promise and objective enshrined in the climate change agreements, including the scientific, information, policy and financial aspects.’ Consultations undertaken on behalf of COP-9 President Persányi on the Special Climate Change Fund (SCCF) continued throughout the day. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE UNFCCC FOURTH CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES, 5 NOVEMBER 1998

    Delegates considered preparations for the first session of the Conference of Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Protocol (COP/MOP-1) in a joint plenary session. The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) discussed research and systematic observation and other matters. In the afternoon and evening, contact groups discussed non-Annex I communications, technology transfer, FCCC Articles 4.8 and 4.9 (adverse effects on developing countries), the financial mechanism and Articles 4.2(a) and (b) (review of commitments). Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-9 HIGHLIGHTS

    Delegates to COP-9 continued to convene in meetings of the SBSTA and SBI, and in contact and informal groups. The SBSTA considered methodological issues, including LULUCF, development and transfer of technology, good practices in policies and measures (P&Ms), research and systematic observation (R&SO), and cooperation with relevant international organizations. The SBI discussed financial matters, including the programme budget for 2004-5 and the SCCF, as well as: capacity building; UNFCCC Article 6 (education, training and public awareness); implementation of UNFCCC Article 4.8 and 4.9 (adverse effects); and non-Annex I national communications. A contact group on methodological issues met in the evening to address the review of methodological work under the UNFCCC and Protocol. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES MEETINGS, TUESDAY, 1 JUNE 1999

    Delegates met in the morning and evening in a joint Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) session to consider: compliance under the Kyoto Protocol; activities implemented jointly (AIJ); and the Protocol mechanisms. In the afternoon, SBSTA convened to consider research and systematic observation, Annex I communications and methodological issues. SBI discussed non- Annex I communications, arrangements for intergovernmental meetings, and administrative and financial matters. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE FIFTH CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON, MONDAY, 25 OCTOBER 1999

    On the opening day of the Fifth Conference of the Parties (COP-5) to the Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC), delegates met in Plenary to hear opening addresses and consider organizational, administrative, financial and other matters. The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) considered Annex I communications and land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF). The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) considered Annex I and non-Annex I communications and the financial mechanism. Read More
  • INC-11 HIGHLIGHTS: THURSDAY, 9 FEBRUARY 1995

    WORKING GROUP I Working Group I concluded its discussion of Agenda Item 7(b), Adequacy of Commitments, and began consideration of Agenda Item 7(c), Joint Implementation. AGENDA ITEM 7(b) ADEQUACY OF COMMITMENTS: Brazil, Nigeria, Bangladesh, India, Egypt, Micronesia and Thailand supported the G-77 and China’s statement made on Wednesday. Brazil... Read More
  • SB 32 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning and afternoon, contact groups and informal consultations took place on issues including privileges and immunities, national communications, LDCs, capacity building, financial mechanism and arrangements for intergovernmental meetings under the SBI, item 3 (preparation of an outcome to be presented to COP 16) under the AWG-LCA and Annex I emission reductions and other issues under the AWG-KP. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE UNFCCC EXPERT GROUP MEETING ON METHODS AND TOOLS AND ON DATA AND OBSERVATIONS UNDER THE NAIROBI WORK PROGRAMME, 4-7 MARCH 2008

    The UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Expert Group Meeting on Methods and Tools and on Data and Observations under the Nairobi Work Programme on Impacts, Vulnerability and Adaptation to Climate Change (NWP) was held from 4-7 March 2008 in Mexico City, Mexico. Approximately 102 participants were in attendance, representing governments, UN agencies and constituted bodies, academia, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and those contributing as experts. The meeting aimed to identify specific practical actions and recommendations on methods and tools, and data and observations for addressing impacts, vulnerability and adaptation to climate change. The workshop concluded with a number of recommendations for: assisting in the use and application , advancing dissemination and sharing experiences , and promoting development and improvement of methods and tools ; and promoting implementation and improvements, improving capacity for collection of, management and use of , and exchange and access to data and observations . The report of the workshop will be forwarded to the next session of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA), scheduled to convene in June 2008. SBSTA 28 is expected to consider further activities, as well as appropriate timing and modalities for their inclusion in the next phase of the NWP based on the results of initial activities, information presented in the IPCC Fourth Assessment Report, and other new scientific information, as well as relevant activities carried out by international and regional institutions. A review and a report on the programme of work are expected at COP 16 in December 2010. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-7 HIGHLIGHTS, THURSDAY, 1 NOVEMBER 2001

    Delegates to COP-7 met in negotiating and drafting groups on mechanisms, compliance and Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information). Informal consultations were held on a number of issues, including LDCs and the Consultative Group of Experts (CGE) on non-Annex I communications. Read More
  • SB 24 & AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    The 24th sessions of the UNFCCC Subsidiary Bodies (SB 24) started on Thursday morning. The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) considered agenda items on the adaptation work programme, deforestation in developing countries, technology transfer, research and systematic observation, and a range of methodological issues. The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) took up issues such as capacity building, administrative and financial matters, amendment of the Kyoto Protocol with regards to the compliance mechanism, the international transaction log, privileges and immunities, and national communications. On Thursday evening, the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG) began informal consultations, and contact groups convened on deforestation and adaptation. Read More
  • SB 30 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning, the AWG-LCA met in an informal plenary . Throughout the day, various contact groups and informal consultations took place under the AWG-KP, AWG-LCA, SBI and SBSTA. Read More
  • COP 14 HIGHLIGHTS

    OP 14 and COP/MOP 4 opened on Monday morning. The opening sessions of SBI 29 , SBSTA 29 , AWG-LCA 4 and the resumed AWG-KP 6 were held in the afternoon. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE UNFCCC WORKSHOP ON INNOVATIVE OPTIONS FOR FINANCING THE DEVELOPMENT AND TRANSFER OF TECHNOLOGIES: 27-29 SEPTEMBER 2004

    The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) workshop on innovative options for financing the development and transfer of technologies was held from 27-29 September 2004, in Montreal, Canada. Attended by more than 60 representatives of governments, intergovernmental organizations, non-governmental organizations and the private sector, the workshop sought to create a better understanding of innovative financing for technology transfer under the Convention. The workshop also aimed to share experiences and information on good practices for financing technology transfer, and to catalyze innovate thinking on the issue, as well as to help narrow any differences that might exist. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE BANGKOK CLIMATE TALKS, 30 AUGUST – 5 SEPTEMBER 2012

    The informal additional sessions of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA), the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP) and the Ad Hoc Working Group on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action (ADP) took place at the UN Conference Centre of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific in Bangkok, Thailand, from 30 August to 5 September 2012. Under the ADP, parties convened in roundtable sessions to discuss their vision and aspirations for the ADP, the desired results of its work and how these results can be achieved. Parties also discussed how to enhance ambition, the role of means of implementation and how to strengthen international cooperative initiatives, as well as the elements that could frame the ADP s work. The AWG-KP session was devoted to resolving outstanding issues to ensure the successful completion of the group s work in Doha, Qatar, in December 2012, by recommending an amendment to the Conference of the Parties (COP) serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (CMP) for adoption. This amendment would allow a second commitment period under the Protocol to start immediately from 1 January 2013. The AWG-KP produced an informal paper outlining the elements for a Doha decision adopting the amendment to the Kyoto Protocol. Many parties welcomed progress made in Bangkok, particularly the increased clarity on options to address the transition to the second commitment period. The AWG-LCA continued working on practical solutions to fulfill specific mandates from COP 17 in Durban. The focus was on what outcomes might be needed to conclude the group s work in Doha, how the elements will be reflected in the final outcome of the AWG-LCA, and whether additional work might be required beyond COP 18 and, if so, identifying concrete issues and whether those issues would require technical work or political consideration. Five workshops based on Decision 2/CP.17 (outcome of the work of the AWG-LCA) also convened in Bangkok. The work of the AWG-LCA was captured in an informal overview note of the AWG-LCA Chair to help clarify areas of convergence. Some parties expressed concern over the lack of distinction between items mandated for further consideration in Durban and other elements of the Bali Action Plan (BAP) and the fact that the Chair s paper did not fully reflect discussions during the session. While some were concerned that the meeting had not achieved adequate results in the run-up to Doha, others welcomed progress made, particularly under the Kyoto Protocol discussions. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-7 HIGHLIGHTS, WEDNESDAY, 31 OCTOBER 2001

    Delegates to the Seventh Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC met in the SBSTA to consider UNFCCC Article 6 (education, training and public awareness), activities implemented jointly (AIJ), and other matters. Negotiating groups on compliance and Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information) continued their work. In addition, informal consultations were held on LDCs, the CDM, JI, the Consultative Group of Experts (CGE) on non-Annex I communications, late payments of contributions to the UNFCCC, and a letter from the Central Asia, Caucasus and Moldova Group on their status under the UNFCCC. Read More
  • WARSAW HIGHLIGHTS

    On Tuesday afternoon, the opening ceremony of the COP 19 and CMP 9 high-level segment took place. In the morning, afternoon and evening, contact groups, informal consultations and other meetings were held under the COP, CMP and ADP. These included: ADP open-ended consultations on both workstreams; report of the compliance committee; REDD+ finance; and the ADP Co-Chairs’ special event. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES MEETINGS, SATURDAY, 5 JUNE 1999

    The Joint Working Group on compliance met in the afternoon. Contact groups were convened on: the Protocol mechanisms; land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); Annex I communications; and non-Annex I communications. An informal consultation on activities implemented jointly (AIJ) was held. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM LULUCF WORKSHOP, TUESDAY, 11 JULY 2000

    Participants at the SBSTA workshop on land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF) met in morning and afternoon sessions to consider additional human-induced activities under Article 3.4 of the Kyoto Protocol, including an overview from IPCC lead authors of the Special Report on LULUCF, presentations from Parties and one NGO representative, and questions and comments from the floor. In the evening, participants heard presentations from Parties, NGOs and industry representatives on project-based activities. Read More
  • BANGKOK CLIMATE TALKS HIGHLIGHTS

    On Monday morning, the President Designate of COP 18/CMP 8 convened opened-ended informal consultations on expectations of parties and observers for Doha. In the afternoon, the ADP Workstream 1 roundtable on vision for the ADP was held. The AWG-LCA stocktaking contact group met in the afternoon. The AWG-KP contact group also met in the afternoon. Contact groups and informal consultations under the AWG-KP and AWG-LCA took place throughout the day. Read More
  • BONN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE, 20-25 OCTOBER 2014

    The sixth part of the second session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action (ADP 2-6) under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) opens today in Bonn, Germany, and will conclude on 25 October 2014. The ADP will focus on preparing key documents for the 20th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 20) to the UNFCCC, scheduled to take place in Lima, Peru, in December 2014. Under workstream 1 (the 2015 agreement), countries will continue elaborating the elements for a draft negotiating text, which will serve as the foundation for the final construction of the 2015 outcome. The ADP will also work on a draft decision that captures the type of information countries will provide when they communicate their intended nationally determined contributions (INDCs) and how these contributions will be considered. This draft decision will be submitted for consideration in Lima. Under workstream 2 (pre-2020 ambition), Technical Expert Meetings (TEMs) will focus on opportunities for action on non-carbon dioxide (non-CO2) greenhouse gases (GHGs) and carbon capture, use and storage (CCUS). Countries will prepare a draft decision on pre-2020 ambition for consideration in Lima. Read More
  • SB 28 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    On Tuesday, the AWG-LCA convened workshops on advancing adaptation through finance and technology , and effective mechanisms for technology transfer . The AWG-KP considered agenda items on means to reach emission reduction targets and on methodological issues , with two contact groups meeting in the afternoon to discuss the flexible mechanisms and LULUCF. Read More
  • SB 30 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning, the SBI and SBSTA continued their opening plenaries. In the afternoon, the SBI plenary reconvened, the AWG-LCA convened in an informal plenary , and the AWG-KP held contact groups on Annex I emission reductions and on other issues identified by AWG-KP 6. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-6 PART II HIGHLIGHTS, SATURDAY-MONDAY, 21-23 JULY 2001

    Delegates to the resumed COP-6 met throughout the weekend and into Monday morning in high-level negotiations. Following extensive talks, Ministers and other senior officials met in a Plenary session late Monday morning, where they agreed to a proposed draft decision produced by President Pronk. The decision sets out a political text outlining core elements for the implementation of the Buenos Aires Plan of Action (BAPA). Read More
  • REPORT OF THE SUBSIDIARY BODIES OF THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE:: 25-28 FEBRUARY 1997

    Three of the subsidiary bodies to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) met in Bonn, Germany, from 25-28 February 1997: the fifth session of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA-5), the fourth session of the Ad Hoc Group on Article 13 (AG13-4); and the fifth session of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI-5). The subsidiary bodies held two concurrent sessions, with the SBI holding six meetings, the AG13 holding five meetings and the SBSTA holding four meetings. Read More
  • UNFCCC SB-16 HIGHLIGHTS, FRIDAY-SATURDAY, 7-8 JUNE 2002

    On Friday, SBSTA convened in the morning to continue consideration of cooperation with relevant international organizations and to discuss UNFCCC Article 6 (education, training and public awareness), the relationship between efforts to protect the stratospheric ozone layer and to safeguard the global climate system, and the special circumstances of Croatia under UNFCCC Article 4.6 (flexibility for Annex I Parties with economies in transition). Contact groups met throughout the day to consider Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information), LULUCF under the CDM, reporting and review of greenhouse gas inventories, the IPCC TAR, Article 6, and policies and measures (P&Ms). The contact group on AIJ completed its work. Read More
  • SB 26 HIGHLIGHTS

    Contact groups and informal consultations were held throughout Wednesday on a variety of issues, including: the Adaptation Fund ; budget for 2008-2009 ; education, training and public awareness ; IPCC’s 2006 Guidelines on national greenhouse gas inventories ; privileges and immunities ; research and systematic observation ; reducing emissions from deforestation; small-scale afforestation and reforestation under the CDM ; and technology transfer . Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE BONN CLIMATE CHANGE TALKS, 9-11 APRIL 2010

    The ninth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (AWG-LCA 9) and the eleventh session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP 11) took place from 9-11 April 2010 in Bonn, Germany. More than 1700 participants attended the meeting, representing governments, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations, academia, the private sector and the media. This was the first round of climate change negotiations after the fifteenth Conference of the Parties (COP 15) and the fifth Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (COP/MOP 5), held in Copenhagen, Denmark in December 2009. The main objective of the Bonn session was to agree on the organization and methods of work in 2010 to enable both AWGs to fulfill their mandates and report respective outcomes of their work to COP 16 and COP/MOP 6 in Cancún, Mexico, from 29 November to 10 December 2010. For the AWG-LCA, one of the main issues was whether to give its new Chair, Margaret Mukahanana-Sangarwe (Zimbabwe), a mandate to prepare a new draft negotiating text before AWG-LCA 10 in June 2010 and, if so, what documents and discussions should be reflected in the text. One of the questions underlying these discussions was the relevance of the Copenhagen Accord, which COP 15 took note of in its decision 2/CP.15 ( FCCC/CP/2009/11/Add.1 ). Some countries stressed that political guidance from world leaders should be reflected in further negotiations while others opposed this on the grounds that the Accord was not adopted by the COP and that its negotiating process had not been legitimate. Late on Sunday evening, the AWG-LCA agreed to mandate its Chair to prepare text, under her own responsibility, for the June session drawing on the AWG-LCA report to COP 15 as well as work undertaken by the COP on the basis of that report. Chair Mukahanana-Sangarwe noted that these conclusions should be read with the understanding that such work refers to all work undertaken by the COP, including its decisions. In its conclusions, the AWG-LCA also agreed to invite parties to submit additional views by late April, which the Chair may draw upon in preparing her draft negotiating text. The AWG-KP reached conclusions on Annex I parties further commitments under the Protocol and work programme for 2010 ( FCCC/KP/AWG/2010/L.2 ). It agreed to continue considering Annex I parties aggregate and individual emission reductions, as well as other issues. The AWG-KP also mandated its Chair to prepare documentation for the next session. One of the last issues to be resolved after midnight on Sunday concerned cooperation with the AWG-LCA. While many developed countries stressed the need for close cooperation, many developing countries opposed, preferring to keep the two negotiating tracks strictly separate. Parties eventually agreed on text noting that that the AWG-KP Chair has undertaken, under his own initiative, to meet with the AWG-LCA Chair to identify information on commitments of Annex I parties, which is to be made available to parties Using identical language in their conclusions, the AWG-LCA and AWG-KP also agreed to hold two additional meetings between the next AWGs in June and COP 16 and COP/MOP 6 in November/December 2010 and that the AWGs would hold their sessions in conjunction with COP 16 for as long as necessary. Read More
  • CANCUN HIGHLIGHTS

    On Tuesday afternoon, the opening ceremony of the high-level segment was held. In addition, a number of contact groups and informal consultations met throughout the day under the COP/MOP, AWG-LCA and AWG-KP. Read More
  • SB 24 & AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    Contact groups and informal consultations continued throughout Tuesday on numerous issues, including adaptation, the Adaptation Fund, arrangements for intergovernmental meetings, deforestation, IPCC 2006 Guidelines and harvested wood products, privileges and immunities, and the Special Climate Change Fund. In addition, an in-session workshop was held on mitigation in relation to agriculture, forestry and rural development. In the evening, the AWG reconvened in plenary following informal discussions in the morning. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM FCCC SB-13, TUESDAY, 12 SEPTEMBER 2000

    The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) convened in the morning to consider the venue of COP-7, administrative and financial matters, Annex I and non-Annex I communications, and the financial mechanism. Informal meetings were held to discuss the GEF’s activities and additional guidance to the GEF as the financial mechanism. Contact groups convened on: policies and measures; compliance; the mechanisms; technology transfer; adverse effects; land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF); and guidelines under Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information). Read More
  • AWG-LCA 7 AND AWG-KP 9 HIGHLIGHTS

    Throughout Saturday, various contact groups and informal consultations were held to consider adaptation, mitigation and finance under the AWG-LCA, as well as Annex I emission reductions and other issues under the AWG-KP. Read More
  • SB 28 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    The Ad Hoc Working Groups started on Monday morning. The second session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA 2) started by considering organizational matters, the work programme for 2009, and long-term cooperative action. In the afternoon, the AWG-LCA convened in a workshop on advancing adaptation through finance and technology. The resumed fifth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP 5) began with opening statements and a brief discussion on organizational matters, before convening in a roundtable discussion on the means to reach emission reduction targets. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-9 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Friday, delegates to COP-9 convened in several contact groups to deliberate draft conclusions and COP decisions. SBI contact groups discussed non-Annex I national communications, capacity building, the Special Climate Change Fund (SCCF) and progress on implementation on decision 5/CP.7 (implementation of UNFCCC Article 4.8 and 4.9 on adverse effects). SBSTA contact groups discussed research and systematic observation (R&SO), the IPCC Third Assessment Report (TAR), good practice guidance on LULUCF, and sinks in the CDM. A contact group convened by the COP on Annex I national communications also met. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS OF UNFCCC COP-2: TUESDAY, 9 JULY 1996

    The second day of the Second Conference of the Parties (COP- 2) to the Framework Convention on Climate Change commenced with a panel discussion at the Ad Hoc Group on Article 13 (AG-13). In the afternoon the third session of the Subsidiary Body on Implementation (SBI-3) met. The third session of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA-3) met all day. Read More
  • COPENHAGEN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE, 7-18 DECEMBER 2009

    The United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark, begins today and is scheduled to conclude on 18 December 2009. The conference will include the fifteenth Conference of the Parties (COP 15) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the fifth Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (COP/MOP 5). The conference marks the culmination of a two-year negotiating process to enhance international climate change cooperation under the Bali Roadmap, adopted by COP 13 in December 2007. At the UN Secretary-General s Climate Change Summit in New York in September 2009, over 100 world leaders called for a comprehensive, ambitious and fair international climate change deal to be agreed in Copenhagen. More than one hundred world leaders are also expected to attend the joint COP and COP/MOP high-level segment from 16-18 December. Read More
  • BANGKOK CLIMATE TALKS HIGHLIGHTS

    The informal additional sessions of the AWG-LCA, AWG-KP and the ADP opened in Bangkok, Thailand. The AWG-KP contact group met in the morning. Under the AWG-LCA, a workshop on financing options for the full implementation of the results-based actions relating to REDD+, including modalities and procedures for financing, took place thoroughout the day. In the afternoon, the ADP Workstream 1 roundtable on vision for the ADP was held. The AWG-LCA contact group met in the afternoon and addressed adaptation and technology, and an informal group on shared vision also convened. The AWG-KP spin-off group on numbers/text met in the afternoon. Read More
  • SB 32 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    The 32nd sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) held their opening plenaries on Monday morning and afternoon. The SBI took up issues including the financial mechanism, capacity building, technology transfer and national communications. The SBSTA considered, inter alia , reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation in developing countries (REDD), technology transfer, the Nairobi work programme on impacts, adaptation and vulnerability (NWP), as well as methodological issues. Read More
  • FCCC COP-5 HIGHLIGHTS, THURSDAY, 4 NOVEMBER 1999

    Delegates to COP-5 convened in the morning for the final session of the high-level segment. In afternoon and evening Plenary sessions, the COP adopted 22 decisions relating to, inter alia: organizational matters; review of the implementation of commitments and other provisions of the FCCC; and preparations for the first session of the COP serving as the meeting of the Parties (COP/MOP-1) to the Kyoto Protocol. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-6 PART II HIGHLIGHTS, THURSDAY, 26 JULY 2001

    Delegates to the resumed COP-6 met throughout the day to continue working on texts for draft decisions and conclusions to be considered by the COP. Participants convened in negotiating groups on finance, compliance, mechanisms, and land use, land-use change and forestry (LULUCF), as well as in several sub-groups and a number of informal consultations. Read More
  • UNFCCC SB-20 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Wednesday, Parties continued to meet in contact groups throughout the day in an attempt to finalize work on draft conclusions and decisions. In the morning, delegates considered UNFCCC Article 6 (education, training and public awareness) and arrangements for intergovernmental meetings. In the afternoon and evening, Parties discussed research and systematic observation (R&SO), policies and measures (P&Ms), small-scale afforestation and reforestation (A&R) project activities under the CDM, non-Annex I national communications and implementation of decision 5/CP.7 (implementation of UNFCCC Article 4.8 and 4.9 on adverse effects). Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE MEETINGS OF THE FCCC SUBSIDIARY BODIES, 9 JUNE 1998

    The Ad Hoc Group on Article 13 (AG13) met in the morning and afternoon. Contact groups from the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technical Advice (SBSTA) met throughout the day to consider outstanding issues. Read More
  • AWG 4 AND DIALOGUE 4 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Thursday afternoon, the AWG met in a contact group to consider draft conclusions on the analysis of mitigation potential and indicative ranges of emission reductions for Annex I parties . After the contact group meeting, AWG Chair Charles convened a small informal group that continued to meet late into the evening. Read More
  • INC-11 HIGHLIGHTS: FRIDAY, 10 FEBRUARY 1995

    PLENARY The Plenary held informal consultations on the Rules of Procedure in the morning and discussed arrangements for COP- 1 and the Permanent Secretariat in the afternoon. AGENDA ITEM 6 - RULES OF PROCEDURE The Chair of the informal consultations, Amb. T.P. Sreenivasan, proposed that delegates exchange views... Read More
  • SB 36 AND AWG HIGHLIGHTS

    In the morning, the opening plenary of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP) took place. In the morning and afternoon, the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA) convened. In the morning and afternoon, various contact groups and informal consultations were held under the AWG-KP, the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA). Read More
  • BANGKOK CLIMATE TALKS HIGHLIGHTS

    On Saturday, the ADP met throughout the day to consider ambition and vision for the ADP. In the morning and afternoon, a number of contact groups and informal consultations under the AWG-KP and AWG-LCA convened. Read More
  • EIGHTEENTH SESSIONS OF THE SUBSIDIARY BODIES OF THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 4-13 JUNE 2003

    The eighteenth sessions of the Subsidiary Bodies (SB-18) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) opens today at the Maritim Hotel in Bonn, Germany. Delegates will continue to address issues under negotiation since COP-8 and prepare for the Kyoto Protocol’s entry into force. Read More
  • LIMA HIGHLIGHTS

    On Tuesday, 2 December, the opening plenary of the seventh meeting of the second session of the ADP (ADP 2-7) took place in the morning. In the afternoon, the ADP contact group on agenda item 3 also convened, addressing the draft decision for advancing the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action, and two parallel ADP meetings focusing on the elements of adaptation and finance were held. Contact groups and informal consultations convened throughout the day under the SBSTA and SBI on a number of issues. The first meeting of the Fourth Structured Expert Dialogue (SED 4) under the 2013-2015 Review took place in the afternoon. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM FCCC SB-12 INFORMAL MEETINGS, TUESDAY, 6 JUNE 2000

    Delegates to the informal meetings preceding SB-12 met to discuss: policies and measures; guidelines on Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information); cross-cutting issues; land use, land-use change and forestry; and the mechanisms. Read More
  • BONN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE, 10-14 MARCH 2014

    The fourth meeting of the second session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action (ADP 2-4) under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) took place from 10-14 March 2014 in Bonn, Germany. The conference brought together 1071 participants, including delegates from governments and observers from civil society, academia, intergovernmental organizations and the private sector. Under workstream 1 (2015 agreement), the meeting convened throughout the week in open-ended consultations on agenda item 3, which addressed: adaptation; nationally determined contributions; finance, technology and capacity-building (means of implementation); ambition and equity; mitigation; transparency of action and support; and other issues related to elements. An in-session workshop addressed domestic preparations for intended nationally determined contributions. Under workstream 2 (pre-2020 ambition), technical expert meetings on renewable energy (RE) and energy efficiency (EE) convened. Each technical expert meeting included sessions on: policies, practices and technology - global state of play; implementing actions - finance, technology and capacity building; and discussion of the way forward. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 7 AND AWG-KP 9 HIGHLIGHTS

    Throughout the day, informal consultations took place under the AWG-LCA on issues including a shared vision for long-term cooperative action, adaptation, mitigation, finance and technology. Under the AWG-KP, contact groups and informal consultations convened on Annex I emission reductions, other issues and potential consequences. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE FCCC FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE, 9 NOVEMBER 1998

    The Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) considered draft decisions for adoption by the COP. Contact groups continued their deliberations on: non-Annex I communications; technology transfer; the financial mechanism; FCCC Articles 4.8 and 4.9; and the flexibility mechanisms. Read More
  • COP 12 AND COP/MOP 2 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Friday, SBSTA convened in the morning to consider cooperation with relevant international organizations, various progress reports, Protocol Article 2.3 (adverse impacts of policies and measures), and emissions from fuel used for international aviation and maritime transport ( bunker fuels ). In addition, contact groups and informal consultations took place throughout the day on issues such as capacity building, technology transfer, deforestation, the CDM, the Joint Implementation (JI) Supervisory Committee, the programme of work on adaptation, Protocol Article 9 (review of the Protocol), issues under the AWG, and privileges and immunities for individuals serving on Protocol bodies. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE CANCUN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE, 29 NOVEMBER – 11 DECEMBER 2010

    The United Nations Climate Change Conference in Cancun, Mexico, took place from 29 November to 11 December 2010. The conference included the sixteenth session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 16) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the sixth session of Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (COP/MOP 6). Four subsidiary bodies convened: the thirteenth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the UNFCCC (AWG-LCA 13); the fifteenth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP 15); and the 33rd sessions of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI 33) and Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA 33). These events drew almost 12,000 participants, including almost 5200 government officials, 5400 representatives of UN bodies and agencies, intergovernmental organizations and non-governmental organizations, and 1270 accredited members of the press. The focus in Cancun was on a two-track negotiating process aiming to enhance long-term cooperation under the Convention and the Protocol. The original deadline for completing these negotiations was the UN Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, held in December 2009, but as many issues remained outstanding, the mandates of the two AWGs were extended until Cancun, where they were expected to report their respective outcomes to COP 16 and COP/MOP 6. Expectations for Cancun were modest, with few anticipating a legally-binding outcome or agreement on each outstanding issue. Nevertheless, many still hoped that Cancun would produce meaningful progress on some of the key issues. In the lead-up to the conference, several matters were widely identified as areas where a balanced package of outcomes could be agreed. These issues included mitigation, adaptation, financing, technology, reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation in developing countries, including conservation, sustainable management of forests and enhancement of forest carbon stocks (REDD+) and monitoring, reporting and verification (MRV) and international consultation and analysis (ICA). Negotiations on these key issues took place throughout the two-week meeting, with parties meeting extensively in plenary, contact groups, informal consultations and bilateral meetings. During the second week, ministers from developed and developing countries were paired in an attempt to facilitate negotiations on the main issues. These negotiations continued all week, with regular informal stocktaking plenary sessions, which were held to maintain a degree of transparency and keep all participants informed about progress. By early Saturday morning, parties had finalized the Cancun Agreements. The Agreements include decisions under both the Convention and Protocol negotiating tracks, and contain provisions on adaptation, REDD+, technology, mitigation and finance. While the substantive outcome was viewed by many as far from perfect and Bolivia went as far as to oppose the adoption of the Agreements, most participants were satisfied with the outcome that restored confidence in the UNFCCC process. However, in spite of the sense of relief felt by many at securing a result, most participants acknowledged that it was a relatively small step in combating climate change. In addition to the Cancun Agreements, the COP and COP/MOP adopted 20 other decisions on matters ranging from capacity building to administrative, financial and institutional matters. As well, the SBI and SBSTA adopted over 20 conclusions on a range of topics, including the financial mechanism, arrangements for intergovernmental meetings, and a wide range of methodological issues. Read More
  • COP 11 AND COP/MOP 1 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Tuesday, delegates convened for the final meetings of the subsidiary bodies at their twenty-third sessions. Informal consultations took place on issues such as the financial mechanism, mitigation, adaptation, compliance, joint implementation (JI), deforestation in developing countries, and Article 3.9 of the Kyoto Protocol (future commitments). The Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) concluded its work on Tuesday evening after finalizing discussions on issues such as the financial mechanism, national communications, capacity building, and education, training and public awareness. Late on Tuesday night, the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) completed its deliberations on all of the items on its agenda, including methodological issues, technology transfer, adaptation and mitigation. Read More
  • AWG-LCA 5 AND AWG-KP 7 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Tuesday, the AWG-LCA convened an in-session workshop on response measures in the morning, and held contact group discussions on a shared vision , and on technology and finance in the afternoon. The AWG-KP contact group on Annex I emission reductions met in the morning, and the AWG-KP opening plenary reconvened in the afternoon to address legal matters, potential consequences, flexibility mechanisms, LULUCF, and sectors, gases and sources. Read More
  • DOHA HIGHLIGHTS

    On Friday, delegates convened in contact groups, informal consultations and other meetings of the Convention and Protocol bodies throughout the day. In the evening, a COP/CMP stocktaking plenary convened. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE BONN CLIMATE CHANGE TALKS, 1-12 JUNE 2009

    Delegates convened in Bonn, Germany, from 1-12 June 2009 to participate in four meetings as part of ongoing negotiations under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Kyoto Protocol. The Convention s Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) and the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA) held their 30th sessions. The sixth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA 6) and the eighth session of the Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties under the Protocol (AWG-KP 8) also took place. Over 3,500 participants attended the meetings, representing governments, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations, academia, the private sector and the media. The main focus in Bonn was to enhance international climate change cooperation, including in the post-2012 period when the first commitment period under the Kyoto Protocol expires. The long-term issues were considered by the AWG-LCA and AWG-KP, which are both scheduled to conclude their work by the fifteenth Conference of the Parties (COP 15) to be held in Copenhagen, Denmark, in December 2009. Read More
  • SB 26 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Saturday, contact groups and informal consultations were held on a variety of issues, including: the Adaptation Fund ; arrangements for intergovernmental meetings ; the budget for 2008-2009 ; deforestation ; Decision 1/CP.10 (Buenos Aires programme of work on adaptation and response measures); privileges and immunities ; and research and systematic observation . In addition, an IPCC briefing took place outlining the contributions of the three Working Groups to the Fourth Assessment Report (AR4) . Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE FIFTH CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE, 25 OCTOBER – 5 NOVEMBER 1999

    The Fifth Meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP-5) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) met in Bonn, Germany, from 25 October - 5 November 1999. With over 3000 participants in attendance and 165 Parties represented, delegates continued their work toward fulfilling the Buenos Aires Plan of Action (BAPA) adopted at the Fourth Conference of the Parties (COP-4) in November 1998. Under the BAPA, Parties set a two-year deadline for strengthening FCCC implementation and preparing for the future entry into force of the Kyoto Protocol. Read More
  • IPCC-25 HIGHLIGHTS

    The twenty-fifth session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC-25) opened on Wednesday, 26 April, in Port Louis, Mauritius. In the morning, delegates heard opening addresses and adopted the IPCC-24 draft report. They also commenced discussions on the IPCC programme and budget for 2006-09, and on the 2006 Guidelines. In the afternoon, discussions continued on the 2006 Guidelines and the Panel began consideration of further work on emissions scenarios. Delegates also discussed some aspects of the 2006 Guidelines in a lunchtime question and answer session with the Coordinating Lead Authors and in a contact group discussion later in the day. Contact group discussions on further work on emissions scenarios also took place and the Financial Task Team (FTT) met during the lunch break to consider the IPCC programme and budget for 2006-09. Read More
  • A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE

    Increasing scientific evidence about the possibility of global climate change in the 1980s led to a growing awareness that human activities have been contributing to substantial increases in the atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases. Concerned that anthropogenic increases of emissions enhance the natural greenhouse effect and would result, on average, in an additional warming of the Earth’s surface, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) established the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in 1988. The Panel focused on: assessing scientific information related to the various aspects of climate change; evaluating the environmental and socio-economic impacts of climate change; and formulating response strategies for the management of global climate change. In 1990, the finalization and adoption of the IPCC report and the Second World Climate Conference focused further attention on climate change. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE SIXTH SESSION OF THE AD HOC GROUP ON THE BERLIN MANDATE: MONDAY, 3 MARCH 1997

    The sixth session of the Ad Hoc Group on the Berlin Mandate (AGBM-6) of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change opened on Monday, 3 March 1997 in Bonn, Germany. Following opening statements, delegates adjourned the formal session and convened an informal round table on new proposals from Parties. Parties elaborated on their proposals and responded to questions. Delegates also agreed to convene ‘non-groups’ to exchange views and merge different proposals. Read More
  • BONN CLIMATE CHANGE CONFERENCE

    On Friday, the contact group on ADP item 3 addressed workstream 2 (pre-2020 ambition), and workstream 1 (2015 agreement), with a focus on adaptation, capacity building, technology and transparency. Read More
  • HIGHLIGHTS FROM FCCC SB-12 INFORMAL MEETINGS, Thursday, 8 JUNE 2000

    Delegates to the informal meetings preceding SB-12 continued discussions on: mechanisms; land use, land-use change and forestry; compliance; FCCC Article 4.8 and 4.9 and Protocol Article 3.14 (adverse effects); and guidelines under Protocol Articles 5 (methodological issues), 7 (communication of information) and 8 (review of information). Read More
  • COP 11 AND COP/MOP 1 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Wednesday, the joint COP 11 and COP/MOP 1 high-level segment began, with statements in plenary from 48 ministers and other high-level government officials, and from eight heads of UN bodies and specialized agencies. Delegates also convened for informal consultations on several outstanding issues, reaching agreement on compliance and on the report of the CDM Executive Board. Informal discussions continued on Protocol Article 3.9 (future commitments) and the way forward under the UNFCCC. Read More
  • SUMMARY OF THE RESUMED SIXTH SESSION OF THE CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE UN FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE: 16-27 JULY 2001

    The resumed sixth session of the Conference of the Parties (COP-6 Part II) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the fourteenth sessions of the UNFCCC’s subsidiary bodies were held in Bonn, Germany, from 16-27 July. Over 4,600 participants from 181 governments, 254 intergovernmental, non-governmental and other observer organizations, and 332 media outlets were in attendance. The meeting sought to successfully complete negotiations aimed at setting the operational details for commitments on reducing emissions of greenhouse gases under the 1997 Kyoto Protocol. It also sought agreement on actions to strengthen implementation of the UNFCCC itself. In attempting to achieve these goals, which were set out in the 1998 Buenos Aires Plan of Action (BAPA), the resumed COP-6 was intended to bring to a close more than two and a half years of preparations and negotiations, and to complete the tasks that had been left unfinished at COP-6 in The Hague in November 2000. Read More
  • UNFCCC COP-10 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Wednesday, COP-10 delegates continued their deliberations in a COP Plenary, contact groups, and a SBSTA in-session workshop. The COP addressed Protocol Article 6 (joint implementation), the report of the CDM Executive Board (EB), and an exchange of views on UNFCCC activities relevant to the international meeting for the 10-year review of the implementation of the Barbados Programme of Action for the Sustainable Development of SIDS (BPOA+10), the World Conference on Disaster Reduction (WCDR) and the process for providing input to the fourteenth session of the Commission on Sustainable Development (CSD-14). Contact groups also met to consider the submission of non-Annex I national communications, capacity building, issues relating to registry systems under Protocol Article 7.4, the UNFCCC’s financial mechanism, and technology transfer. In the afternoon, an in-session workshop on impacts of, and vulnerability and adaptation to, climate change was held. Read More
  • COP 11 AND COP/MOP 1 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Saturday, delegates convened in contact groups and informal consultations on numerous issues, including Protocol Article 3.9 (future commitments), the CDM Executive Board’s report, joint implementation, the financial mechanism, technology transfer, capacity building under the Kyoto Protocol, research and systematic observation, the Kyoto Protocol’s international transaction log, compliance, the IPCC Special Report on carbon dioxide capture and storage, mitigation, non-Annex I communications, and privileges and immunities for those serving on bodies established under the Kyoto Protocol. Read More
  • AWG 4 AND DIALOGUE 4 HIGHLIGHTS

    On Wednesday morning, the fourth and final Convention Dialogue workshop convened in plenary. During the session , delegates exchanged views on next steps to take the Dialogue process forward. In the afternoon, the AWG met in a contact group to discuss the analysis of mitigation potential and indicative ranges of emission reductions. Read More
  • DURBAN HIGHLIGHTS

    On Thursday, ministers and their representatives addressed delegates in a joint high-level segment held throughout the day. In the morning, a President s informal stocktaking plenary was held. Contact groups and informal consultations met throughout the day and into the night on several issues, including Annex I emissions reductions, mitigation, Kyoto Protocol amendments, the CDM, the Adaptation Fund, finance, response measures, sectoral approaches, market and non-market approaches, national adaptation plans, technology transfer and capacity building. South Africa also held ministerial and technical Indaba sessions to try to bring positions closer among parties. Read More
  • Earth Negotiation Bulletins Archive

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