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INTENDED
AUDIENCE: Public sector officials involved in managing national climate change commitments and opportunities arising out of existing and prospective United Nations limitations on greenhouse gas emissions. Private sector stakeholders are also invited to attend.
COURSE
OBJECTIVES: The course will present an in-depth analysis of the outcomes (and implications) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference, scheduled to be held in Copenhagen in December 2009. Leading experts and practitioners will share their insights into the possible impact of the Conference outcomes.
COURSE
OUTLINE
- Introduction to the international efforts to stabilize atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gasses that are reflected in measures adopted in the UNFCCC, which came into force in 1994. Review of the scheme for negotiation of commitments through the Conferences of the Parties (there are now 192 countries that are eligible to participate). The role of non-governmental organizations in the Conferences.
- The December 1997 COP-3, and the adoption of the Kyoto Protocol. The commitment of industrialized countries and countries in transition to a market economy (known as the “Annex 1” countries) to reduce overall emissions of six greenhouse gasses during the first commitment period (2008-2012). Review of the degree of acceptance of the Kyoto emission targets and implementation actions by Annex 1 countries. Rejection of the Kyoto Protocol by the United States.
- The 2007 COP-13 in Bali, Indonesia, and the adoption of a roadmap to conclude negotiations for a successor to the Kyoto Protocol. The roadmap elements include: mitigation, adaptation, finance and technology. Negotiations at Poznan, Poland, in December 2008, and further preparatory work for COP-15.
- The cap and trade system adopted in Europe: application to power generators and industrial concerns; requirement of allowances by greenhouse gas emitters; allocation of allowances; the allowance market; economic effects of the carbon trading system in Europe.
- Proposals to deal with “leakage,” which is the competition from imports from countries with less stringent climate change regulations and the relocation of production to such countries; the WTO issues related to border measures designed to control or limit leakage; effect on exports from countries that have reduced commitments.
- Proposals and programs to aid developing countries, such as the “Reduced Emissions from Deforestation” the “Global Environment Facility” “technology transfer.
- Mitigation opportunities (forestry, agriculture, etc).
- Tips on how to participate in the UNFCCC and its conferences.
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