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  • Nigeria Launches Long Term Low Emission Development Strategy At COP28

    Nigeria Launches Long Term Low Emission Development Strategy At COP28

    Nigeria has achieved what looks like another major milestone in her effort to achieve a net zero carbon economy by 2060 by launching its Long-Term Low Emission Development Strategy on Friday, December 1, 2023, at COP28 in Dubai, UAE.

    The event, which was graced by dignitaries and delegates from different countries around the world, was held at the African Pavilion in the Blue Zone and was moderated by Professor Chukwumerije Okereke, Director of the Centre for Climate Change and Development, AEFUNAI, and Dr Eugene Itua, Executive Director of the Natural Eco Capital, the organisation that coordinated and led the development of the LT-LEDS, which was started under the supervision of the Department of Climate Change, Federal Ministry of the Environment, and concluded under the auspices of the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC).

    Director General of the NCCC, Dr Salisu Dahiru, who was temporarily represented by Ms Halima- Bwa-Bari, stated that Nigeria was proud to launch the LT-LEDS, which is guaranteed to support sustainable development and climate resilient economy for the nation.

    Minister for Aviation and Aerospace, Festus Keyamo (SAN), who represented the Minister for Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, said that the LTS was an important milestone in Nigeria’s effort to implement the country’s net-zero pledge made at COP26 in Glasgow. He said that Nigeria was committed to pursue the transition from a fossil fuel dependent economy to a low carbon future in keeping with the global trend and the Paris Agreement and urged international development partners to support the implementation of the LT-LEDS.

    Global Director of the NDC Partnership, Mr. Pablo Vieria, said that Nigeria should be very proud of accomplishment. He stated that by developing the LTS, Nigeria is joining a distinguished group of countries that are exhibiting leadership in developing a clear strategy to decarbonise their economies in response to global climate change. He urged the country to take the next step in adopting the LT-LEDS and pledged the NDC Partnership’s cooperation in this regard.

    Head Climate and Nature at the French Development Agency (AFD), Ms Mathide Bord-Laurans, congratulated Nigeria on launching the LT-LEDS. She said that AFD was delighted to have provided support to the Centre for Climate Change and Development, Alex Ekwueme Federal University under the Nigeria Deep Decarbonisation Project (DDP), which enabled the Centre to lead the creation of scenarios and the modelling work that went into the development of the LT-LEDS. She pledged that the Bank would stand firmly by Nigeria and support investments that are geared towards the implementation of the LT-LEDS.

    Mr. Richard Baron, Executive Director of the 2050 Pathways Platform, expressed his joy at having assisted Nigeria in the design of the LT-LEDS and the precursor document, the Long-Term Vision (LTV 2050) which was also developed by Natural Eco Capital for Nigeria and submitted to the UNFCCC in 2021, served as the initial first step to the LT-LEDS.

    He stated that the LT-LEDS was developed in collaboration with a wide spectrum of stakeholders, making it a truly national document of which Nigeria could be proud.

    He expressed his delight that the modelling work for the LT-LEDS was done by Nigerian academics at the CCCD-AEFUNAI, led by Professor Chukwumerije Okereke, and praised the collaboration between the Nigeria Deep Decarbonisation Project, the 2050 Pathways, the National Council on Climate Change, and Natural Eco Capital, with Dr Eugene Itua as the National Coordinator, which resulted in the creation of a high-quality document.

    In his closing remarks, the Director General of the NCCC, who had now arrived at the event in person, stated that while the launch of the LT-LEDS was a significant milestone, he would like to see all hands on deck to ensure that the document does not sit on the shelf but that the many projects identified in the documents are translated into practical investment. He stated that the two important next steps are the creation of an LT-LEDS Implementation Plan and the mobilisation of capital from domestic and internal sources to implement the LT-LEDS.

    Miss Chioma Amudi, Desk Officer at the NCCC, noted that translating the LT-LEDS into investments would require finance, effective stakeholder engagement, and adequate institutions, among other key factors.

    Terseer Ugbor, Deputy Chairman, House Committee on Environment of the Federal House of Representatives, pledged the support of the national parliament in implementing the LT-LEDS.

    By Gboyega Olurufemi, Senior Climate Change Analyst and Fellow at the Centre for Climate Change and Development, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Nigeria

    First published in environewsnigeria.com

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  • President Ramkalawan addresses the 28th session of the Conference of Parties of UNFCC World Climate Action Summit

    President Ramkalawan addresses the 28th session of the Conference of Parties of UNFCC World Climate Action Summit

    02nd December 2023

    1st December 2023, Dubai UAE: The President of the Republic of Seychelles, Mr. Wavel Ramkalawan during his address at the Twenty-eighth session of the Conference of Parties of UNFCC (COP28).to which he led a Seychelles delegation, highlighted the urgency for collective action and the need for commitments made to be honoured as part of efforts to mitigate the heightened threats of climate change particular vis-à-vis Small Island Developing States (SIDS) like Seychelles.

    “In our shared pursuit of a sustainable future, the urgency of our deliberations here in Dubai cannot be overstated. As parties to the convention, we committed to deliver on commitments such as the USD100 billion promise, Scaling up Adaptation Finance, New Collective Quantified Goal on Finance and most recently the Loss and Damage Fund.

    “We are yet at another COP and I am disheartened to state that most of these commitments are yet to be fulfilled despite the urgency required to address the climate crisis” President Wamkalawan added.

    The President joined over 170 world leaders for the World Climate Action Summit (WCAS) being held during the United Nations Climate Change Conference – COP 28High-level segment, where he delivered his National Statement earlier yesterday afternoon.

    The summit echoed the critical need for World Leaders to implement and transform key climate related decisions into concrete actions and credible plans.

    “As Leaders, I call for your unwavering shift in political-will that will translate into concrete actions so as to confine global temperature rise within the critical threshold of 1.5 degrees Celsius.

    “Small Island Developing States are on the frontline of climate change, facing rising sea levels, coastal erosion, increased frequency of extreme weather events, and the loss of vital ecosystems. Whether we are high income, low income or among the Least Developed countries, our specificities are the same and what the industrialised nations emit have a direct impact on our coastlines and livelihoods. We are simply islands floating in the ocean, and therefore we must be treated as a unique and separate category when it comes to assisting us. I call on SIDS to unite and support each other” said President Ramkalawan.

    Speaking to the summit, the Head of State also emphasised the real life negative effects affecting the small island archipelago as well as the enormity of the financial burdens inflicted on such a small nation as Seychelles.

    “As I speak, my country is experiencing devastating impacts of climate change, specifically damage to the coastline and critical coastal infrastructure caused by higher tides, frequent storm surges and heavy rainfall.

    “Coupled with other impacts, these are endangering the livelihoods of my people and our Islands. A recent comprehensive survey only on the main populated granitic islands of Seychelles conducted by our technical team estimated around USD 22 million is needed for road infrastructure works and other measures to mitigate coastal erosion.

    “Our updated NDC highlighted a further USD600 million will be required over the next 10 years, for both mitigation and adaptation sector, translating to 5% of GDP annually or 10% of the annual budget. If we are to add the disaster happening to our coralline outer islands, that figure could be doubled, let alone tripled.

    “Like many SIDS, 90 per cent of the country’ infrastructure and human activities occur along its low-lying coastal areas and are thus vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.

    “The current trajectory means Seychelles’ economy stands to be severely undermined, whereby forcing us to divert much needed finance to environment protection, instead of investing in education, health, sports, agriculture, food security, modernisation and giving our people a better standard of living” stressed President Ramkalawan.

    He further placed emphasis on the critical need for the Loss and Damage Fund created last year and the Multi-Dimensional Index (MVI) initiative to take into consideration the true vulnerabilities of all SIDS fairly, rather than penalising them for their High-income status. He further highlighted the climate change plight where SIDs are battered by climate change and severe increased threats to their very existence.

    “My point is simple: Don’t categorise islands into economic bands but treat all islands in the same manner and allow all of us to have access to the Loss and Damage Fund. We all lose from the damage you cause, yet we clean up our emissions and help mop up those of industrialised nations.

    The message is loud and clear: Seychelles is a committed partner that can be trusted. We believe in what we preach and we walk the talk. The evidence is there. However, we cannot do it alone. We need the financial support of the whole world. The metaphorical hourglass is dwindling. COP 28 presents a pivotal call to action to build climate resilience before the last grain of sand slips away. In unity and determination, let us seize this moment to reverse our course and forge a sustainable and resilient future for generations to come. Let’s not leave anyone behind”, concluded the President.

    Prior to attending the COP28 High-Level National Statement segment, President Ramkalawan attended the opening ceremony held in the morning where he was welcomed at the Dubai Expo City site by His Highness Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Abu Dhabi and the United Nations Secretary General António Guterres.

    SOURCE

    (State House News Alert)

     

     

  • COP28: Who are the big name attendees?

    COP28: Who are the big name attendees?

    BY 
    NOVEMBER 30, 2023

    Representatives of 197 countries who are ‘parties’ to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) will participate at COP28

    The United Nations’ Conference of Parties ’28’ (COP28) has begun in Dubai, UAE. The conference, starting on November 30 until December 12, will see heads of states, governments and representatives attend the event.

    From CEOs to presidents, from investors to monarchs, celebrities to climate activists and advocates, spiritual leaders to indigenous leaders, are among the 97,000 delegates who have registered to be in attendance at the climate conference. More than 70,000 politicians, diplomats, campaigners, financiers and business leaders are expected to be in Dubai to talk about correcting the world’s slide toward global warming.

    Global leaders at COP28

    Representatives of 197 countries who have signed or are ‘parties’ to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) will participate primarily through debates and negotiations.

    The UAE’s President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed along with his senior ministers will be in attendance as UAE is the host country.

    Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, COP28 President-Designate, UAE Special Envoy for Climate Change, and Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology has been on site welcoming delegates from across the world.

    Global leaders including UK’s King Charles III, and the British PM Rishi Sunak will be at the event. EU President Ursula von der Leyen, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Prime Minister Olaf Scholz, Prime Minister of Japan Fumio Kishida, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, President of Brazil and Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India are expected to be in attendance.

    US Vice President Kamala Harris and John Kerry, US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate, will represent the US at COP28.

    World Health Organisation (WHO) chief Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus will be at the conference. He will lobby for health considerations to be embedded in climate policy, while the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and its head Rafael Grossi are pushing for nuclear power to have a crucial role in the energy transition.

    Jim Skea, the newly elected head of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), is also due to attend COP28.

    The software billionaire, Bill Gates, has confirmed his attendance at Cop28, calling it an “important opportunity to check on the world’s progress”. Michael Bloomberg, the founder of Bloomberg LP, the parent of Bloomberg News, who is also UN Special Envoy on Climate Ambition and Solutions, is expected at the conference. Additionally, Al Gore, US vice president from 1993 to 2001, is a regular participant at climate events after leaving office, and could be spotted at Expo City Dubai.

    Oscar-winning actor Leonardo DiCaprio is likely to be among the big Hollywood names in attendance, as he has positioned himself as a climate action advocate. Other celebrities Idris Elba, Matt Damon, Stella McCartney and Ella Goulding. Actor and UN Goodwill Ambassador Idris Elba spoke at the World Government Summit, held in the UAE back in February.

    COP28: Who is not attending

    The three biggest names to give the climate conference a miss are Pope Francis and US President Joe Biden. The US President has sent in his second-in-command Kamala Harris in his stead.

    Additionally, China’s President Xi Jinping will also not be at the summit.

    Pope Francis, had originally intended to attend but has cancelled his trip to Dubai, as he recovers from the flu, the Vatican said in a statement.

    The other state leaders who will not attend the COP28 include – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to a statement from Israel’s Foreign Ministry. Neither Syrian President Bahar Assad nor Russia’s President Vladimir Putin will be in Dubai.

    SOURCE

    Gulf Business

  • COP28 UAE kicks off, as global climate action takes centre stage

    COP28 UAE kicks off, as global climate action takes centre stage

    BY GULF BUSINESS
    NOVEMBER 30, 2023

    Leaders must deliver in Dubai – the message is clear, said UN Climate Change executive secretary Simon Stiell on the eve of COP28

    The United Nations Climate Change Conference COP28 opens today, with a strong call to speed up collective climate action.

    The conference takes place in the hottest year ever recorded in human history

    COP28 will run from November 30 to December 12 at Expo City Dubai, offers a global platform to agree on climate commitments and curb the worst impacts of climate change, according to a statement released by United Nations Climate Change.

    This year’s COP marks the conclusion of the global stocktake, the first assessment of global progress in implementing the 2015 Paris Agreement.

    The global stocktake lists actions on how to speed up emissions cuts, build resilience to climate impacts, and provide the support and finance needed for the transformation. It will be a catalyst in meeting the Paris Agreement’s goals, as nations prepare to submit revised national climate action plans by 2025.

    The world is not on track to limiting temperature rise to 1.5°C by the end of this century. while countries are developing plans for a net-zero future, and the shift to clean energy is gathering speed, the transition is nowhere near fast enough yet to limit warming within the current ambitions, the UN Climate Change said.

    A report recently published by UN Climate Change shows that national climate action plans (known as nationally determined contributions, or NDCs) would collectively lower greenhouse gas emissions to 2 per cent below 2019 levels by 2030, while the science is clear that a 43 per cent reduction is needed.

    In a message shared on the eve of the event, UN Climate Change Executive Secretary Simon Stiell said: “It’s great that over 160 world leaders are coming, but COP28 cannot be just a photo-op.  Leaders must deliver in Dubai – the message is clear.

    “They must agree to triple renewable energy this decade, and double energy efficiency. Developing nations – who did least to cause the crisis – have been starved of climate justice and resilience for too long. Last year’s COP in Egypt delivered an historic Loss & Damage Fund.  This year’s cop in the UAE must put meat on the bone of this fund. That means putting real money on the table.  Table scraps won’t cut it. More broadly – COP28 in Dubai must show that finance is the great climate enabler. It needs to flow to developing in countries in torrents, not trickles, to boost climate resilience right now.”

    Climate finance is the key to transformation

    Climate finance stands at the heart of this transformation. Replenishing the Green Climate Fund, doubling financial resources for adaptation and operationalising the loss and damage fund are key to keeping 1.5°C within reach while leaving no one behind.

    “The reality is that without much more finance flowing to developing countries, a renewables revolution will remain a mirage in the desert. COP28 must turn it into a reality,” Stiell added.

    Progress on climate finance at COP28 will be crucial to build trust in other negotiation areas and to lay the groundwork for an even more ambitious ‘New Collective Quantified Goal’ for climate finance, which must be in place next year. It will also set the stage for a just and inclusive transition to renewable energy and the phasing out of fossil fuels, United Nations Climate Change said in a statement.

    In the face of rising conflicts and tensions worldwide, Stiell emphasised the need for collaborative efforts to combat climate change, an area in which nations can work together effectively to ensure a sustainable future both for people and the planet.

    “We don’t have any time to waste. We need to take urgent action now to reduce emissions. At COP28, every country and every company will be held to account, guided by the north star of keeping 1.5°C within reach,” said COP28 President Dr Sultan Al Jaber.

    “All parties should be prepared to deliver a high ambition decision in response to the global stocktake that reduces emissions while protecting people, lives and livelihoods,” Al Jaber added.

    Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs and COP27 President Sameh Shoukry said: “We need to start delivering on climate justice and provide the needed tools that we already agreed upon in Sharm el-Sheikh for funding loss and damage, including the establishment of a fund. One of the major outcomes that have to come out of COP28 is for the fund to be fully operationalised and funded.”

    High-level COP28 events

    The World Climate Action Summit (WCAS), hosted by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, will convene Heads of State or Government on December 1-2 , when the first part of the COP28 high-level segment will also take place.

    A resumed high-level segment will take place on December 9-10.

    The COP28 Presidency will hold open consultations on thematic areas, inviting inputs from the broad mix of stakeholders attending the conference. Consult the COP28 UAE Thematic Program

    SOURCE

    Culf Business

  • About African Continental Sustainable Built Environment Industry Summit-ACEACFMS 2023

    About African Continental Sustainable Built Environment Industry Summit-ACEACFMS 2023

    ACCRA, Ghana, November 29, 2023/- As the day for the largest international Summit for the building, construction and real estate industry maiden event in Ghana, the African Continental Sustainable Built Environment Industry Summit (ACEACFMS 2023), draws closer, confirmations are coming in from both in-person and virtual participants within Ghana, Africa, Canada, Australia & New Zealand among others

    West African Sub-region

    Some of the high profile in-person participants from the West African sub-region who have confirmed their participation are, Engr Dr. Modasiru Bola (Principal Partner Prolarank Nigeria Limited currently, the National Secretary General of the Nigeria Institution of Highway and Transportation Engineers and Engr Essono Alain, Training Consultant, the National Civil Engineers Association of Cameroon.

    Outside Africa

    Confirmations for virtual participation has already been received from Canada, Australia & New Zealand as well as South Africa.

    Being organized as collaborative effort between the Africa Continental Engineering & Construction Network (ACECN) and GM Bamboo Eco-City Ltd, the expects a total participant score of thousand (1000+), about 500 Ghanaian and foreign in-person participants and 200 virtual and 300 virtual international participants with particular reference to those from Angola, Cameroon, Congo-Brazzaville, Cote D’Ivoire, Kenya, Liberia, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, South Africa, The Gambia and Togo.

    Aims & Objectives

    By far, it is the singular and most impactful Sustainability Summit that brings together all sector players across the African continent to discuss industry best practices, contemporary innovations and technologies that have the potential of influencing decision making for a resilient African Engineering, Construction and Real Estate Industry and by extension, creating a high-level business networking opportunity for all stakeholders both locally and across the globe.

    The objective is to set the stage for the transitioning of the conventional built environment to a sustainable built environment whilst creating opportunity for high-end business networking to foster synergy and high-level business partnerships/collaborations for corporate growth and for the African continental prosperity at large.

    Who to Attend

    Influential building contractors, road contractors, professional practicing civil engineers, electrical engineers, surveyors, planners, architects, project managers, real estate developers, building and construction material/equipment suppliers, glaziers and fabricators.

    Also included are, interior deco professionals/companies, roofing companies/technicians, transport & logistics companies, facility management institutions/professionals, construction project financiers, investors, project insurance institutions, artisans among others.

    Being held for the first time under the theme: INTEGRATING SUSTAINABLE BUILT ENVIRONMENT FOR SOCIO-ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION THROUGH THE USE OF DIGITAL TWIN TECHNOLOGIES, the organizers plan to make it a most bespoke annual industry event.

     Benefits to be derived by Participants

    The event seeks to create an enabling business environment and opportunity for participants to land big contracts, seal potential partnership deals, boost sales, build strong network with the most influential industry players, get signed on to top-rated projects/contractors/professionals across the African continent and beyond has finally come.

    “You have the opportunity to interact with and do business with our principal sponsors and consultants among few are, GM-Bamboo Eco-City Ltd, Rockville Construction Ltd, B5 Plus Group, Aya Fabrications & Engineering Ltd, Premier Steel Ltd, Neuce Paints Ltd, Primus Group, the McDan Group, Eris Properties, Ezojam Ltd, etc.,” said,Sir Daniels Kontie, President to ACECN.

    African Continental Sustainable Built Environment Summit Partners

    The event Partners include, the Ghana Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET-GH), the Ghana Institution of Surveyors (GhIS), the Ghana Institution of Architects (GhIA), the Association of Building and Civil Engineering Contractors of Ghana (ABCECG), the Ghana Institution of Planners (GhIP), the Association of Road Contractors, Ghana, (ASROC), among several others.

    African Continental Sustainable Built Environment Summit Principal Sponsors/Partners

    The Principal Sponsors and partners of the event include, Premier Steel Ltd, Youngi Design Consult Ltd, McDan Group, Aya Toptech & Fabrication Ltd, Bamboo Eco-City, Berock Construction Ltd, G-IBF Ltd, among several others.

    Event Opening

    Chief Guest of Honour: H.E. JOHN DRAMANI MAHAMA, FORMER PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF GHANA;

    Guest of Honour/Main Keynote Speaker: ING. MRS. CARLIEN BOU-CHEDID, Earthquake and Structural Engineer; Former President of Ghana Institution of Engineering (GhIE) and Immediate Past President of Federation of African Engineering Organizations

     Guest of Honour/Keynote Speaker: DASEBRE KWESI EWUSI VII, the Paramount Chief of Abeadze Traditional Area, Central Region of Ghana Past Member of Council of State, Former Vice President National House of Chiefs, Former President Central Region House of Chiefs;

     Guest of Honour/Keynote Speaker: DR. DANIEL MCKORLEY Executive Chairman of McDan Group of Companies

    Host Opening Remarks and Individual Introductory Messages to One Another The host will welcome the participants to the African Continental Sustainable Built Environment Industry Summit. The host will facilitate the individual introductions and offer an overview of the summit objectives and upcoming agenda for the day.

    You are Sustainable Built Environment Industry by MR. DANIEL KONTIE, President and CEO, African Continental Engineering & Construction Network, The Organizers of the Built Environment Sustainability Summit. The Organizer of the Built Environment Sustainability Summit will explain the significance of the summit and the strategic networking and knowledge dissemination campaigns that guide our work.

    Plenary Sessions

    Main Keynote Address Integrating Sustainable Built Environment Industry for Socio-economic Transformation Through the use of Digital Twin Technologies by ING. MRS. CARLIEN BOU-CHEDID, Earthquake and Structural Engineer; Former President of Ghana Institution of Engineering (GhIE) and Immediate Past President of Federation of African Engineering Organizations

    Keynote Talk I

    Providing Sustainable Logistics and Supply Chain Management Services for Socio-Economic Transformation of the Sustainable Built Environment Industry DR. DANIEL MCKORLEY Executive Chairman of McDan Group of Companies

    Keynote Talk III Land Dispute Resolution Sustainable Land Acquisition for Sustainable Infrastructure Development in the face of Climate Crisis DAASEBRE KWEBU EWUSI VII, The Paramount Chief of Abeadze Traditional Area in the Central Region, Past Member of Council of State, Former Vice President National House of Chiefs, Former President Central Region House of Chiefs

    Technical Sessions Workshops Oral Presentations

    Refocusing Ghana’s EARTHQUAKE Preparedness and Response for Socio-Economic Transformation Through the use of Digital Twin Technologies ING. MRS. CARLIEN BOU-CHEDID, Earthquake and Structural Engineer

    Refocusing Ghana’s FLOOD Preparedness and Response for Socio-Economic Transformation Through the use of Digital Twin Technologies PROF. DIVINE AHADZIE, Head of Centre for Settlement Studies, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology

    Transforming the Built Environment through the use of Sustainable Materials – BAMBOO PRODUCTS AND LESSER-KNOWN & LESSER-USED TIMBER SPECIES – based on the Digital Twin Technologies by ING. PROF. EMMANUEL APPIAH-KUBI

    African Continental Sustainable Built Environment Industry Excellence Awards Ceremony

    The categories of the event awards ceremony component include the following: Excellence in Technology & Innovation Award 2. Excellence in Environmental Sustainability and Green Financing Award 3. Emerging Green Business Award 4. Excellence in Professional Service Award and 5. Supreme Business Excellence Award

    Date: 14th  December,2023

    Time: 9.00-5.00 pm

    Venue:De-Icon Conference Centre,East Legon,Accra

    Note to Editors

    AFRICA CONTINENTAL ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION NETWORK (ACECN)

    Since its establishment five years ago, ACECN has been at the forefront of the construction and engineering industry in the region, undertaking diverse projects of varying scales and complexities.

    Media Contact: Mr. Daniel Kontie; Phone no.: 0209032280; E-mail: info@acecnltd.com, d.kontie@acecnltd.com;

    Website: http://www.acecnltd.com/

     GM BAMBOO ECO-CITY LTD. is a fully integrated Urban Farm Eco-City design, investment, development and management Limited Liability Company based in Ghana.

     Media Contact: Engr. Samuel Worwui; Phone no.: 0509160497; E-mail: Samuel.worwui@gmail.com, info@bambooecocity.com; Website: www.bambooecocity.com

    Event registration link:   https://forms.gle/KTRCNVY2Lppssf9o9

     

  • About Promoting a Just Circular and Blue Economy Transition in Africa

    About Promoting a Just Circular and Blue Economy Transition in Africa

    Mohammed A. Abu

    The Chief Executive Officer(CEO) of South Africa based Sustainable Seas Trust(SST), Janine Osborne has declared that, her organization’s work will focus on strengthening existing multi-lateral partnerships (specifically with the Abidjan and Nairobi conventions, and WIOMSA) to promote a just transition for Africa to a circular and blue economy through supporting its African partners’ response to the incipient global plastics treaty.

    “While securing multiple funding sources beyond this generous grant remains a priority, SST is truly grateful to the Norwegian government for their continued partnership and support of our ambitious vision” she stated.

    Janine Osborne made the observations following a formal grant signing ceremony between her organization and the Norwegian Ambassador to South Africa who signed on behalf of his home government.

    The signing ceremony was followed by a field trip during which SST accompanied the Norwegian Embassy delegation and the Ambassador to the Motherwell Community and Enviro-Hub, which SST has supported over the last few years.

    Janine Osborne further intimated, “It’s a great local example of the community work we support and the significant change that is possible through meaningful partnerships”. Adding “Together, we’ll sustain Africa’s seas”.

    Sustainable Seas Trust(SST), is a science-based organization working to protect Africa’s seas and communities for the benefit of all who live on the continent

    The organization works towards uplifting and sustaining solutions that will enable the blue economy. Through education, research and targeted action, as well as partnerships it endeavors to curb the risk of marine pollution through integrating waste management principles into value chains

    To realize the goal of a sustainable blue economy for Africa, the organization believes there is the need to first start on land.

  • From COP27 to COP28 – key factors for Africa ahead of the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference

    From COP27 to COP28 – key factors for Africa ahead of the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference

    Opinion Piece By:Tshepo Ntsane, Sustainable Finance Transactor at Rand Merchant Bank 

    The Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) represents an important international forum for countries to gather to discuss and address global climate change issues. However, to date these conferences have tended to be high level and process based, and COP 27 was no exception. – negotiations took place and some of the highlights included the historic establishment of the loss and damage fund which was seen as setting a precedent for climate justice.

    However, agreements on other matters such as phasing out of fossil fuels and setting peaking periods for emissions were not achieved. For African countries in particular, COP 28 marks an important pivot point around funding, just transition and the Nairobi Declaration. There will be a push for realisations on commitments made, and innovative funding mechanisms to drive accelerated climate action now and beyond.

    Making good on promises

    During previous COPs significant commitment were made by developed countries around funding and financial support to help developing nations transition. COP27 saw a funding announcement of about $105 million by eight donor governments to support countries facing the worst effects of climate change, including Senegal, The Gambia, Sao Tome and Principe.

    The pledge adds new funding to the Least Developed Countries Fund (LDCF) and Special Climate Change Fund (SCCF), augmenting the $413 million pledged by 12 other donor countries at COP26.

    However, while numerous promises have been made, no concrete action has yet been taken. Of the commitments made at COP15 to provide $100 billion a year to developing countries for climate action, only a quarter – has been achieved. In addition, one of the main concerns raised with the financing is the fact that a large proportion are structured as loans, thereby imposing a debt burden on already debt-stressed developing countries.

    Other issues include transparency of the agreements and timelines for the funding. For many African countries to move forward, these challenges need to be addressed. This will likely be a topic of focus at COP28, as countries in the region look to achieve their own targets for carbon and emissions reduction.

    Not just about transition

    For many developing countries in Africa still heavily reliant on fossil fuels, the issue of transition is not limited to cleaner, environmentally friendly sources of fuel. Entire communities are often built around fossil fuels, such as in South Africa where, in the Mpumalanga province, entire local economies are dependent on the mining of coal.

    When coal-based fuels are phased out and coal mines closed, the impact on people in the coal value chain, including these vulnerable communities and economies that are built around coal mines, will be significant.

    A just transition also involves the reskilling and upskilling of people reliant on coal for their livelihood to ensure they remain productive members of society who contribute to the economy. The timing and funding of skills development initiatives are still up for debate.

    Funding the commitments

    Climate resilience is something all countries are looking to implement, but countries in Africa have unique challenges as well as unique resources and strengths that we need to play to. During COP27 the concept of carbon credit markets and carbon offset schemes emerged, which would allow companies to buy carbon credits to offset their own emissions.

    This would not only open up a potential market for carbon offset projects and investment opportunities for developing countries, it would also help to channel resources into projects that deliver real benefits.

    However, once again the issue of transition reaches beyond transition to transforming African economies. This starts with access to clean energy. The Nairobi Declaration proposes new financing mechanisms to help countries in Africa unlock funding for transition and promote sustainable use of resources to help the region contribute toward global decarbonisation.

    One of the declarations from the Climate Summit in Kenya included a call for developed countries to honour their commitment to provide $100 billion in annual climate finance, as promised 14 years ago at the Copenhagen conference. Furthermore, it included proposals for new debt relief and restructuring interventions and instruments such as extension of sovereign debt tenor and inclusion of a 10-year grace period.

    COP28 will need to see developed countries make good on their funding commitments, while Africa moves forward with an aligned strategy to ensure just transition without leaving anybody behind.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Rand Merchant Bank.

    SOURCE
    Rand Merchant Bank

  • Climate Justice and Just Societal Transition to Green Economy gets Major Boost

    Climate Justice and Just Societal Transition to Green Economy gets Major Boost

    Prof. Chukwumerije Okereke has been elected Fellow of The World Academy of Sciences for the advancement of science in developing countries (UNESCO-TWAS) in recognition of his outstanding contribution to science and its promotion in the developing world.

    The Nigeria born Okereke is a Professor in Global Governance and Public Policy in the School for Policy Studies, Bristol University, UK, and Director for the Centre for Climate Change and Development, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Ndufu-Alike, Nigeria.

    He is a globally recognised leading scholar on global climate governance and international development with specialism on the justice dimensions of the international climate regime and just societal transitions to the green economy.

    Okereke has a strong track record of cutting-edge and high-impact research focused on understanding and addressing systemic barriers to economic and social inclusion in the context of climate policy and green economy transitions,

    He has made significant contributions to scholarship on several areas such as: (i) understanding how different conceptions of justice influence global climate governance and the implications for climate-resilient sustainable development in developing countries; (ii) advancing the theory of theory of climate governance through his various works that focus on the activities of non-nation state actors in climate governance; and (iii) advancing knowledge and practice of climate governance and green growth transitions in Africa where his work has had a far-reaching impact on public policy and practice across the continent.

    He also worked with a diverse array of stakeholders to mobilise research to shape climate governance in Africa including drafting a climate change law in Nigeria, modelling Nigeria’s long-term low-carbon development strategy, designing African Unions’ Adaptation Initiative, and drafting the first ever national green growth plan in Africa, for the Government of Rwanda.

    Professor Okereke’s academic merit and international research leadership status is affirmed through his leadership roles in multiple high-profile global Scientist Assessment Projects and networks including as Coordinating Lead Author, of the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Working Group III Sixth Assessment Report.

    He is a visiting professor at London School of Economics and Senior Academic Visitor at the University of Oxford.

    He is also a leading member of the Global Earth Commission’s Safe and Just Transformation Working Group and Coordinator of African Forum Climate Change, Energy and Development (AFCEED) the leading African Network of scholars, policy makers and practitioners working on climate change and sustainability transitions in Africa.

    Commenting on the award, Okereke said: “I am delighted to have been elected Fellow of The World Academy of Sciences for the advancement of science in developing countries (UNESCO-TWAS).

    “It means a lot to me because I have always been driven by a desire to highlight the challenges faced by developing countries in addressing climate change while also pursuing economic growth as well as the opportunities to leverage climate action to build resilience and achieve economic growth.

    “Developing countries face multiple challenges related to colonial legacy and unjust international economic order which work to the advantage of advanced countries. I believe that approaching climate governance from the framework of justice enables us to tackle, not just the issue of climate pollution, but also the more fundamental question of global equity and fairness needed to ensure that everyone can lead a decent life regardless of where they are born.

    “I grew up in a very rural village in Old Eastern Nigeria. I played naked under the rain, swam and drank water from the brownish local river, went to school for the most time barefooted, studied under the big akparata tree in the local school, hunted rats and rabbits with my age-mates and sang with other children under the moonlight.

    “I experienced the joy of growing up in the natural environment and am passionate to see that economic development for all the good things it brings does not impose existential risk on our environment and the lives of people on the planet.

    “This recognition encourages me to continue to work as there is still quite a long way to go to achieve climate justice for the vulnerable countries of the world.”

    Okereke is among 47 Fellows elected by the Academy.

    SOURCE

    Centre for Climate Change & Development

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  • Zanzibar to Scale Up MPA Conservation Management

    Zanzibar to Scale Up MPA Conservation Management

    Mohammed A. Abu

    Makame O. Makame, a Director of Marine Conservation Department of the Zanzibar Ministry of Blue Economy & Fisheries, has lauded the Self-Assessment Tool(SAT) a component of Marine Mammals Management Toolkit, for having made the country to understand their current capabilities and limitations in Marine Protected Area(MPA) management.

    Supported by the factsheets, the Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) enables MPA managers to assess the extent to which marine mammals are included in their respective management plans.

    To this end, Mr. Makame disclosed that, the Ministry has planned various activities that will help to improve upon their management framework on marine mammal conservation.

    The activities he said included, a future plan of launching, whale tourism, establishing a sanctuary for dolphins in the country’s marine Biodiversity Conservation Area(MBCA) among others.

    SAT, he said was an invaluable tool in MPA management that helped them to understand the existing situation, and is indeed an eye opener tool that helped them to understand better marine mammal conservation.

    “The tool is very important. We need it” he intimated

    Mr. Makame was speaking on Thursday during  and hour and half  long international webinar on Marine Mammals Management Toolkit, in West Africa intended to introduce the Marine Mammals Management Toolkit, an innovative tool for effectively managing marine mammals in and around MPAs.

    The Marine Mammal Twinning, part of the EU-funded Ocean Governance Project, hosted the webinar in collaboration with the Abidjan Convention and the Regional Partnership for the Conservation of the Coastal and Marine Zone (PRCM).

    The toolkit is being developed within the framework of the “Marine mammals, a way to enhance cooperation between Marine Protected Areas” twinning is part of the Ocean Governance project

    Held under the theme, “Towards effective management of marine mammals in West Africa: The Marine Mammals Management Toolkit.”, the webinar drew over seventy international participants

    Western African Aquatic Mammals

    The introduction of the Marine Mammals Management Toolkit comes on the back of the MOU on Western African Mammals which was concluded under the auspices of the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) and came into effect on 3 October 2008.

    It will remain open for signature indefinitely. It aims to achieve and maintain a favourable conservation status for manatees and small cetaceans of Western Africa and Macaronesia and their habitats and to safeguard the associated values of these species for the people of the region.

    Various threats, including direct and accidental catch, coastal development, pollution and habitat degradation, have caused West African marine mammal populations to decline rapidly.

    These issues require action at a national, regional and global level. Efforts to protect marine mammals and raise awareness of their conservation needs include the convening of meetings, the undertaking of studies and field activities, the adoption of legal instruments, as well as the development of international agreements.

     

     

     

     

  • Responsible Resourcing Awards: Acknowledging Junior Miners’ Sustainable Initiatives

    Responsible Resourcing Awards: Acknowledging Junior Miners’ Sustainable Initiatives

    CAPE TOWN, South Africa, October 31, 2023/ — Mining Indaba understands how important ESG is to the mining industry, two years ago we introduced the Junior ESG Awards to recognise and honour junior mining companies that are striving to achieve positive impacts related to their companies’ sustainable development. This initiative provides a platform for juniors to share their initiatives in order to be recognised for their excellent achievements while inspiring peers to do the same.

    Rebranded the Responsible Resourcing Awards, Mining Indaba will continue to honour junior mining companies for their sustainable development initiatives. These awards promote a more ethical and sustainable future in and for the industry and the greater economies they have a presence in. Previous recipients have been recognised for initiatives including reducing carbon emissions, improving access to clean water, and promoting sustainable economic development in their regions. Their innovation and dedication contribute to a more sustainable future.

    Junior miners are transforming responsible mining by preserving the environment, supporting local communities, and promoting sustainable, ethical practices in the industry through their innovative approach.

    The Responsible Resourcing Awards cover a variety of aspects of sustainable mining including:

    • Climate

    For its innovative and revolutionary climate-change initiatives, such as green power solutions, nature-based solutions, and re-designing mining infrastructure to address environmental, social, and economic issues.

    • Water

    A company is recognised for improving clean water access, introducing innovative solutions for pollution prevention, and responsibly managing water usage in projects and asset operations.

    • Economy

    A company promoting sustainable economic development in local communities, focusing on vulnerable groups, reducing dependency on mining, and promoting the green economy.

    • Circularity

    A company is recognised for integrating circular processes into its operations, at any stage of the mining life cycle, and/or into the local economy.

    • Transparency

    A company is recognised for its exceptional transparency practices and efforts to enhance accountability mechanisms, thereby promoting business integrity and good governance.

    • Nature

    A company is focusing on innovative strategies to protect, preserve, and restore ecosystems and species, with a particular interest in collaborative and landscape-level projects.

    • Community Engagement

    A company is enhancing local institutions and empowering people to assert their human rights through innovative initiatives and community engagement in decision-making processes.

    • Labour

    A company that excels in employment practices, including labour rights respect, equal opportunities, fair treatment, professional development, health and safety culture, and worker voice recognition.

    • Diversity, equality, and inclusion

    A company is recognised for successfully implementing a diversity, equality, and inclusion strategy, demonstrating improved representation against bias and discrimination, and overcoming discrimination at all organisational levels.

    The judging process for the Responsible Resourcing Awards involves a carefully selected expert panel of ESG advisors, managers, and analysts. The criteria will include factors such as the level of commitment to sustainability, innovative approaches to environmental responsibility, social impact, and ethical practices. The judges will prioritise entries that demonstrate tangible and measurable results, as well as a clear vision, robust execution, and a lasting commitment to building a more sustainable and responsible future.

    The deadline for submissions is January 2024.

    Submit your entry here: https://apo-opa.info/477kQDw

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Investing in African Mining Indaba.

    For media queries:
    R&A Strategic Communications
    Katherine Bester
    katherineb@rasc.co.za
    indaba@rasc.co.za

    Sibongile Mtafu
    sibongile@rasc.co.z