News facts
Key trends in developing country technology priorities highlighted
In its 2021 Progress Report, the UN Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN) highlights this year’s trends in technology demand as seen in technical assistance requests from developing countries. These requests demonstrate an increased demand for nature-based solutions related to water and agriculture, alongside a steady drive to accelerate the energy transition with renewable energy, circular economy strategies, and sustainable cities. Interest in digital transformation is also on the rise, permeating all sectors and creating opportunities to revolutionize how we address climate change.
“As countries ramp up their ambitions – and commitments – to meet climate needs, we have helped over 100 countries to progress on their climate and sustainable development agendas. Technology is a crucial factor in reversing some of the worst impacts of climate change, and a critical enabler in achieving net-zero emissions,” noted CTCN Director Dr. Rose Mwebaza.
Since the adoption of the Paris Agreement in 2015, countries’ technical assistance requests to the CTCN have aligned strongly with the goals and technologies reflected in their Nationally Determined Contributions and Technology Needs Assessments. Priority areas include agriculture, energy-efficiency, water, climate observation and early warning, infrastructure, urban planning, and renewable energy.
In the Progress Report, the CTCN also details its results related to the Technology Framework (innovation, implementation, enabling, collaboration, support), as defined by article 10 of the Paris Agreement, and shares relevant examples from the countries it serves.
The CTCN, and the Technology Mechanism’s policy arm, the Technology Executive Committee, will share more details on their work to foster technology uptake in support of NDC implementation at a side event on Nov. 4 at COP26.
Read or download the CTCN 2021 Progress Report here.