News facts
The new Technology Framework and the need for accelerated action was the focus of the Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN) Regional Forum for Asia held 2 to 3 September in Bangkok, Thailand, as part of the Asia-Pacific Climate Week 2019 (APCW).
“We see fires in the Amazon and Siberia, record-breaking temperatures in Western Europe and the Arctic Circle. These facts demonstrate that climate change is not a threat, it is a reality”, expressed Mr. Ping Zhong, CTCN Advisory Board Member, China.
With this mindset of urgency, a reflection on past successes in enhancing resilience and reducing greenhouse gas emissions was paired with a call by the National Designated Entities (NDEs) to focus CTCN support on supporting long-term technology transitions. Examples from across Asia highlighted the importance of financing and policy frameworks for technologies and shined a spotlight on strong examples of engagement with industry and the successful leveraging of funds. From building energy efficiency in Thailand to enhancing flood and drought management in Myanmar, participants discussed the breadth of scope addressed by the CTCN’s Asian portoflio.
Low-emission transport and research, development and demonstration (RD&D) were explored in depth. Both issues revealed the importance of regional and international cooperation to exchange knowledge and information and accelerate technology transfer. Multi-country and programmatic approaches were supported, and enhanced action by the CTCN to support trans-boundary cooperation was requested.
“The CTCN has operated for five years. In that time, the climate crisis has penetrated political and economic narratives. I appreciate your frank reflections and look forward to partnering in the coming months to develop a regional strategy reflective of your enhanced commitments to action”, concluded Ms. Jaime Webbe, CTCN Regional Manager for Asia-Pacific.
Supported by the participation of partners from the UNFCCC Technology Executive Committee (TEC), the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, the Asia Regional Forum set priorities for 2020.
