News facts
The UN Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN) invited its National Designated Entities (NDEs) or one of its nominees to attend a five-week interactive online course focusing on blockchain solutions and other emerging technologies for global climate action. The course is taking place from the end of September to the end of October 2021 and is organized together with the Blockchain & Climate Institute (BCI).
Course Summary
This course aspires to introduce participants to blockchain technology and other emerging technologies as well as showcase their practical value in relation to global climate action.
More specifically, the course aims to highlight blockchain as a technology that has the potential to increase efficiency and security, reduce cost and simplify data management in the context of climate change mitigation and adaptation. During the course, discussions will be led around real-world problems related to climate change such as renewable energy, deforestation, carbon markets and green finance. Benefits of blockchain technology will also be framed in the context of the Paris Agreement.
The course is a combination of a 2-hour online class which is delivered live once per week, supported by reading material and simple assignments. A virtual forum will be moderated where learners can discuss their ideas and ask questions. Upon successful completion of the course, the participants will receive a certification.
Learning Objectives
By the end of the course, participants will be able to understand the basic concepts of blockchain technology. They will be able to talk about the value of blockchain and other emerging technologies in relation to climate action to their peers. Additionally, they will also be able to identify technology opportunities in their country context and be able to request relevant support through CTCN technical assistance.
Course Outline
Week 1 - Introduction to Blockchain: Blockchain 101 – Digital currencies overview, blockchain core concepts, types and benefits of blockchains, smart contracts
Week 2 - The Future is Clean Energy: Smart metering, microgrids, energy markets, prosumers, balancing grids, sustainable mining, blockchain against energy poverty
Week 3 - The Future is Green Finance: Finance market places, green bonds, mitigation finance and emerging technologies in practice, asset backed tokens
Week 4 - The Future is Carbon Neutral: Networked carbon markets, trading of carbon units, carbon accounting, carbon offsets, adaptation finance, parametric insurance
Week 5 - Emerging Technologies and The Road Ahead: Interoperability, blockchain-as-a-service, blockchain governance, regulatory sandboxes, roadmap to implementation