News archive 2014

News archive 2014

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	Technology Executive Committee, 9th meeting The Technology Executive Committee (TEC) held its 9th meeting on 18-21 August 2014, in Bonn, Germany. Based on work undertaken intersessionnally by its task forces, the TEC will consider many substantive issues, and will initiate the preparation of its annual report to COP 20. The provisional agenda and meeting documentation is available via the link below. More View webcast
	Fifteenth Meeting of the Plenary of the Compliance Committee The 15th meeting of the plenary of the Compliance Committee was held in conjunction with the 16th meeting of the facilitative branch and the 25th meeting of the enforcement branch of the Compliance Committee. More View webcast of the Compliance Committee and Facilitative branch View webcast of the enforcement branch
	Expert meeting on an information hub for information on results of the activities referred to in decision 1/CP.16, paragraph 70 and results-based payments Following a request by the COP in the Warsaw Framework for REDD-plus, the secretariat organized an expert meeting on an information hub for information on REDD-plus results and corresponding results-based payments from 2-3 September 2014. The overall objective of the meeting was to consider technical and design questions in relation to the set-up of the information hub. More View webcast
	Eightieth meeting of the CDM Executive Board The Executive Board of the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) considered an update of its 2014 management plan, the status of CDM regional collaboration centres, and important regulatory enhancements as it gathered in Bonn for its eightieth meeting 14-18 July 2014. Agenda and documents under consideration View webcast
	Economic Ramifications of Climate Change Move Cities to Protect Businesses, Finds CDP Report 10 July 2014 The majority of the world’s major cities have disclosed that climate change presents a physical risk to the businesses operating in their cities. This real and current threat is driving local governments to take concrete action in response, according to a new report entitled "Protecting our Capital." Read more
	Millennium Development Goals Report 2014 The report just published by the UN shows that significant progress has been made across all goals and millions of lives have been saved, but much more effort is needed to address the linked challenges of climate change and sustainable development. Read the report
	China and US Sign Deals on Climate Change 9 July 2014 Beijing, China The United States and China this week signed eight partnership pacts to cut greenhouse gases, bringing the world's two biggest carbon emitters closer together on climate policy.The deals, which involve companies and research bodies, were signed in Beijing ahead of a two-day visit to China by top Obama administration officials. Read article
	Staff at the UN Climate Convention Back Climate Neutral Campaign 9 July 2014 Bonn, Germany Staff with the UN climate change secretariat are as of today signing up to an innovative campaign aimed at promoting a long-term vision of a climate neutral world while generating useful funding for vulnerable communities. Read press release
	Business Leadership on Carbon Pricing Caring for Climate seeks to mobilize a critical mass of companies around the world to demonstrate leadership on climate action and to become responsible advocates in global and local policy discussions in support of a global climate change agreement in 2015. In the lead up to the UN Secretary-General’s Climate Summit, the UN Global Compact and Caring for Climate partners — CDP, The Climate Group, UN Foundation and WBCSD — are calling on companies to demonstrate leadership in pricing the cost of carbon emissions as a necessary and effective measure to tackle climate change. The Business Leadership Criteria on Carbon Pricing have been developed to inspire companies to reach the next level of climate performance, and to give recognition to businesses that are at the forefront of advocating a price on carbon. The Business Leadership Criteria complement a Statement on Putting a Price on Carbon developed by the World Bank Group and other partners calling for countries and companies to demonstrate strong global support and action toward pricing carbon. Read more
	Climate Change Puts Decades of Development at Risk in Africa 4 July 2014 Windhoek, Namibia Climate change threatens to undo decades of earnest effort to develop Africa unless sufficient investment can be mobilized to spur sustainable development and make the continent more resilient. This was the message delivered to about 400 participants at the 6th Africa Carbon Forum, gathered to share and learn the latest about market and financial opportunities associated with the international response to climate change. Press release
	Norway Pledge for Green Climate Fund 2 July 2014 Norway has announced that it will unveil its preliminary pledge for the Green Climate Fund at UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon's climate summit in New York in September. The Fund, which assists developing nations in fighting global warming, is on track to start raising cash in November. Read more
	Renewables to Get Most of $7.7 Trillion Power Investments 2 July 2014 Renewable energy may reap as much as two-thirds of the USD 7.7 trillion in investment forecast for building new power plants by 2030 as declining costs make it more competitive with fossil fuels, according to the forecasts in a report released by Bloomberg New Energy Finance. This will help global carbon dioxide emissions peak by the end of the next decade. Read more
	Rhode Island Signs Off New Climate Change Law 26 June 2014 The US state of Rhode Island has passed a climate change act, outlining how it should cut fossil fuel use and prepare for future extreme weather events. The law stipulates that greenhouse gas emissions should be slashed 45% below 1990 levels by 2035, and 80% below 1990 levels by 2050. Read more
	New FAO forestry communication toolkit A new toolkit created by the UN's Food and Agriculture Organization provides a wealth of resources and key messages on issues of central importance to the forest sector. Through the toolkit, users can access expert interviews on key forestry topics, videos from the field detailing macro issues and individual projects, FAO publications, images, comprehensive statistics, maps and other useful resources. See toolkit
	UN Climate Change Secretariat Announces New Panel Members Tasked to Select Outstanding Examples of Action on Climate Change 26 June 2014 Bonn, Germany Twelve high-profile leaders in the fields of information and communication technology, sustainable energy, international diplomacy and non-profit advocacy have joined the United Nations Climate Change Secretariat’s Momentum for Change Advisory Panel. Read press release (140 kB)
	Time to Act to Reduce Short-Lived Climate Pollutants Recent scientific assessments coordinated by UNEP have identified a number of “win-win” measures for near-term climate protection and clean air benefits. Fast uptake of these cost-effective and readily available measures, which target emissions of short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) in key sectors, could bring rapid and multiple benefits for human well-being. View graphic publication on benefits of reducing SLCPs (1582 kB) .
	Risky Business Report: Risks to United States Economy from Climate Change 24 June 2014 The U.S. economy faces significant risks from unmitigated climate change. The Risky Business report presents a new approach to understanding these risks for key U.S. business sectors, and provides business leaders with a framework for measuring and mitigating their own exposure to climate risk. Read more
	Historic UN Environment Assembly in Nairobi 23-27 June 2014 Hundreds of environment ministers, decision makers, scientists, civil society representatives and business leaders attended the inaugural meeting of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA), a new world body that places environmental issues at the heart of international affairs. Held at UNEP headquarters under the theme "A Life of Dignity for All", UNEA tackled major climate related issues such as air quality and pollution, environmental rule of law and financing the Green Economy. Read more Statement by UNEP Executive Director Achim Steiner Closing remarks by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon
	Photos of Alaska: Then and Now. Historical Images Chart Continuous Glacier Melt Muir Glacier & Inlet in (1895) Here the west shoreline of Muir Inlet in Alaska's Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve is shown as it appeared in 1895. Notice the lack of vegetation on the slopes of the mountains, and the glacier that stands more than 300 feet high.
	Muir Glacier & Inlet in (2005) In this photo, the west shoreline of Muir Inlet in Alaska's Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve is shown as it appeared in 2005. Over the century since the first photo was taken, Muir Glacier ceased to have a tidewater terminus. Note the lack of floating ice and the abundant vegetation on many slopes. View this stunning set of then and now photos – taken by everyone from John Muir in 1879 to later explorers like William Field and National Geographic's Bradford Washburn – for first-hand evidence of the effects of climate change on our planet.
	Brazil Achieves 70% Reduction in Amazon Deforestation June 2014 A team of economists and scientists report in the US journal Science that Brazil has achieved a 70% reduction in Amazon deforestation since 2004 by simply not cutting down 86,000 square kilometres of rainforest. This is, in effect, a 70% decline in deforestation, and in 2013 alone such abstention amounted to a 1.5% drop in global carbon emissions. Read more
	South-South Renewables Trade Grows Faster than Global Trade as Developing Countries Invest in Green Technology 25 June 2014 Nairobi, Kenya Renewable energy (RE) trade among developing countries is growing faster than global and north-south RE trade as developing countries, led by China, take advantage of decreasing manufacturing costs, increased investment, and the falling costs of renewables, says a new report released during the first United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA). Read press release
	Climate-Smart Development Brings Major Benefits Says New Report 23 June 2014 Washington DC Government policies that improve energy efficiency, waste management and public transport could increase global economic output by more than USD 1.8 trillion per year, and also save lives, reduce crop losses and tackle climate change, according to new analysis released 23 June from the World Bank and the ClimateWorks Foundation. Release \| Report \| Executive Summary
	FAO says energy production from wood must be improved 23 June 2014 Rome, Italy The Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN (FAO) issued its flagship publication "The State of the World's Forests" 23 June. Among other things, the report shows that a significant proportion of the world population relies on forest products to meet basic energy needs and that much needs to be done to improve wood energy production to make it more sustainable. Read press release
	Celebrating World Day to Combat Desertification 17 June 2014 The World Day to Combat Desertification is being celebrated this year under the slogan “Land belongs to the future - let's climate proof it." The World Day is observed annually on 17 June to promote public awareness relating to international cooperation to combat desertification and the effects of drought. It is a unique occasion to remind everybody that desertification can be effectively tackled through strengthened community participation and co-operation at all levels. View video messages by Christiana Figueres and others
	Rising number of initiatives by cities and better land management show pathways towards carbon neutral future 15 June Bonn, Germany The ability of cities and the way smarter use of land can unlock greater action on climate change now and into the future came to the fore in Bonn as governments work towards a new agreement in Paris in 2015. Read press release (232 kB) fr (793 kB) sp (175 kB) rus (234 kB)
	G77 50th anniversary celebration at Bonn conference 15 June Bonn, Germany At a special event on the final day of the UN Climate Change Conference in Bonn, Parties and the UNFCCC secretariat celebrated the 50th anniversary of the G77 and China. During a festive “huddle” in one of the plenary rooms, Christiana Figueres cut an anniversary cake with Rene Orellana, the Chair of the G77 and China group and Head of the Bolivian delegation at the UNFCCC. The G77 and China group was founded 15 June 1964 and since its inception has expanded to 133 countries.
	UNFCC SB40 bike rally promotes zero-carbon transport 9 June 2014 Bonn, Germany In order to draw attention to cycling as a key solution to pollution in urban areas and other options for sustainable urban transport, the UNFCCC secretariat organized a bike rally along the Rhine 9 November. Cruising along the Rhine and joined by UNFCCC Executive Secretary Christiana Figueres, SB 40 delegates could enjoy the benefits of a zero-carbon ride against the scenic backdrop of the Rhine valley. More
	Brazil paves way for better protection of forests in developing countries 6 June 2014 Bonn, Germany The government of Brazil has taken an important step towards improved national and global forest and climate protection. Today it formally submitted key information and data on the status of its greenhouse gas emission reductions in the forest sector to the UNFCCC secretariat. Read press release
	Figueres urges nations to greater Doha amendment ambition as Norway becomes 11th Party to accept Norway has become the 11th Party to the Kyoto Protocol (KP) to formally accept the amendment to the Protocol adopted at CMP 8 in Doha, Qatar which paved the way for the KP's second commitment period. The United Arab Emirates were first to accept the Doha amendment, followed by Barbados, Mauritius, Bangladesh, Monaco, Sudan, Federated States of Micronesia, Kenya, Honduras, China and now Norway. Norwegian Minister of Climate and Environment, Tine Sundtoft, said: “Developed countries need to take the lead. This is why Norway took on new commitments under the Kyoto Protocol. We encourage all other Parties to the Kyoto Protocol to advance their ratification process rapidly." UNFCCC Executive Secretary Christiana Figueres said: "I would like to congratulate Norway and the other ten nations who have stepped up to their responsibilities and ratified the amendment. I would urge others, many of whom worked diligently to secure the Doha amendment, to follow suit so that by COP 20 in Lima, Peru we have the necessary 144 ratifications needed for the second commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol to swiftly enter into force. There are many important steps needed and milestones to be reached between now and the crucial Paris climate conference in 2015 and this is one of them".
	WED 2014--New UN Report Spells Out Risks and Opportunities for Small Islands 5 June 2014 A new science assessment, compiled on behalf of the UN system by the UN Environment Programme for World Environment Day, spotlights the range of risks facing small island developing states from unchecked climate change from economic losses due to damaged coral reefs to those linked with increasing severe weather events. The new Foresight report also underlines the huge social and economic opportunities from a transition to a low carbon economy including the enormous potential for greening electricity generation by harnessing the sun and the winds. Read press release
	Award-Winning Scientist Joseph Alcamo Named Special Science Adviser to UNFCCC Executive Secretary 4 June 2014 Bonn, Germany Former UN Environment Programme (UNEP) Chief Scientist and award-winning environmental modeling researcher Professor Joseph Alcamo has become the Special Science Adviser to UNFCCC Executive Secretary Christiana Figueres. Read press release (137 kB)
	Brazil Scores Some Early Goals in Campaign for Carbon Neutral FIFA World Cup 4 June 2014 Bonn, Germany Host country Brazil has announced a strong start to its efforts to offset greenhouse gas emissions from this summer's FIFA World Cup using carbon credits produced by projects registered under the Kyoto Protocol's Clean Development Mechanism, or CDM. Read press release (137 kB)
	IPCC AR5: Climate Change: Implications for Agriculture The IPCC Fifth Assessment Report is the most up-to-date, comprehensive and relevant analysis of our changing climate. The effects of climate change on crop and food production are already evident in several regions of the world. This briefing from the University of Cambridge explores the specific trends that will affect the agricultural sector. Read more on the technical expert meeting on land use taking place 11 June at the Bonn Climate Change Conference.
	World Environment Day - 5 June 2014 *"Raise your voice, not the sea level."* The linked threats of climate change and environmental decay are hitting Small Island Developing States (SIDS) hard and fast. SIDS have frequently taken a leadership role, not only to raise global awareness of climate change, but also to take their own ambitious action to deal with its impacts. The United Nations has recognized this by designating 2014 as the International Year of SIDS and has made the theme for World Environment Day 2014 on 5 June: "Small Island Developing States and Climate Change". Here we showcase some inspiring examples of Youth activities in SIDS, Gender and climate action in SIDS, SIDS and Adaptation, as well as opportunities under the Climate Change Convention.
	With developing world's policy support, global renewable energy generation capacity jumps to record 3 June 2014 The number of emerging economy nations with policies in place to support the expansion of renewable energy has surged more than six-fold in just eight years, from 15 developing countries in 2005 to 95 early this year. Those 95 developing nations today make up the vast majority of the 144 countries with renewable energy support policies and targets in place, says REN21's Renewables 2014
	Ministers Join Next Round of UN Climate Talks Kicking Off in Bonn June 4 2 June 2014 Bonn, Germany The next round of UN climate talks starts in Bonn on June 4, this time with the presence of ministers who will discuss key political issues which can be resolved ahead of a successful, new and universal climate agreement in Paris next year. The key focus of the meeting will be raising ambition in areas of urbanization and land use. Press release (141 kB) esp (145 kB) fr (208 kB) rus (298 kB)
	UN's New Climate Technology Centre Gets Its First Customers 2 June 2014 Copenhagen/Bonn Developing countries are now beginning to make active use of the UN's new global network for climate technology solutions, the Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN). This constitutes a promising signal that momentum for climate action is building ahead of a new, universal climate agreement in 2015. Press release (140 kB)
	Last two years hottest in history says Australian Climate Council 2 June 2014 Australia A Climate Council report released today finds the last 24 months are shaping up to be the hottest in Australia's recorded history, further evidence that climate change is already influencing our weather. More
	UNFCCC Newsletter: Focus on June sessions 30 May 2014 This latest edition of the newsletter focuses on the mid-year negotiating sessions taking place in Bonn from 4-15 June. It includes a video message by UNFCCC Executive Secretary, Christiana Figueres, explaining how new components at the June session including high-level ministerial engagement are poised to move the dialogue forward faster. Newsletter \| Boletín
	iPhone and iPad Application 'Negotiator' updated for June sessions 30 May 2014 Stay tuned and up-to-date by the minute on what's happening at the conference! Using the application, users can among many other things: Watch live and on-demand webcast from the negotiations View the latest YouTube videos and photos from the conference Join the Talks via the Facebook and Twitter channels Download 'Negotiator' – free of charge here.
	UMass Boston - Choices Today Define Our Tomorrow 30 May 2014 In her address at the University of Massachusetts Boston commencement ceremony, UNFCCC Executive Secretary Christiana Figueres speaks about the power of individual choice in meeting the global challenge of climate change and encourages graduates to use their own power of choice to move the world towards a stable, low-carbon future. Statement (124 kB)
	The Resilient Cities 2014 - 5th Global Forum on Urban Resilience and Adaptation 29 May 2014 Bonn, Germany The fifth Annual Global Forum on Urban Resilience and Adaptation is taking place from 29 to 31 May in Bonn. Resilient Cities is a milestone event connecting local government leaders and climate adaptation experts to discuss adaptation challenges facing urban environments around the globe. More
	IETA's annual Market Sentiment Survey finds high expectations for markets in 2015 deal 28 May 2014 Cologne, Germany An overwhelming majority of members of the International Emissions Trading Association (IETA) expect carbon markets to have a role in an international climate change deal, expected to be agreed in Paris next year, according to IETA's ninth annual Market Sentiment Survey. Read press release
	CO2 concentrations top 400 parts per million throughout northern hemisphere 26 May 2014 Geneva, Switzerland For the first time, monthly concentrations of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere topped 400 parts per million (ppm) in April throughout the northern hemisphere. This threshold is of symbolic and scientific significance and reinforces evidence that the burning of fossil fuels and other human activities are responsible for the continuing increase in heat-trapping greenhouse gases warming our planet. Read WMO press release
	Climate Change: Implications for Fisheries and Aquaculture May 2014 London, United Kingdom Climate change and acidification are altering ocean ecosystems in profound ways, with major impacts on fisheries and aquaculture, including displacement of stocks and mortality of shellfish from acidic water. These key findings from the recently released IPCC Fifth Assessment Report (AR5) revealing the growing threat of climate change to fisheries and aquaculture are contained in a new briefing issued by the University of Cambridge. More
	ADP Co-Chairs issue their reflections and scenario notes The Co-Chairs of the Ad Hoc Working Group on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action (ADP), which is tasked to raise global ambition to address climate change before 2020 and to reach a new climate agreement that will come into force from 2020, have released their reflections on the ADP's last session in March and have issued a scenario note to help Parties prepare for the upcoming session in June, in Bonn. Both notes can be accessed here: Reflections on progress made at the fourth part of the second session of the ADP Scenario note on the fifth part of the second session of the ADP
	UN Climate Chief says UN Registry shows huge potential to scale up support to developing world for climate action 23 May 2014 A new UN Registry which records and matches offers of support from developed nations to the stated plans of developing countries to reduce and limit greenhouse gas emissions has recorded the first such agreed cooperation between Austria and Georgia. Media alert (135 kB)
	Message of the United Nations Secretary-General, Mr. Ban Ki-moon, on the occasion of the International Day for Biological Diversity 22 May 2014 UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon highlights the plight of small island nations under the connected threats of environmental decay, climate change and species loss and outlines the urgent solutions to the problem. His message to mark the International Day for Biological Diversity also falls in the International Year of Small Island Developing States. Read message
	Legislators from 100 countries to place national legislation at heart of a 2015 global agreement on climate change 21 May 2014 Mexico At the 2nd World Summit of Legislators from 6-8 June hosted by the Mexican Congress and organized by the Global Legislators Organization (GLOBE), senior legislators from over 100 countries will politically test a new model for an international climate change agreement that has national legislation at its heart. Read article
	Christiana Figueres welcomes completion of GCF, calls for speedy capitalization 21 May 2014 Bonn, Germany The Board of the Green Climate Fund (GCF) completed the essential policy requirements to make the fund operational at its meeting in Songdo, Republic of Korea on Wednesday. UNFCCC Executive Christiana Figueres welcomed the completion of the fund, and called for its speedy initial capitalization. Read media alert (133 kB)
	Celebrating World Migratory Bird Day 10-11 May 2014 World Migratory Bird Day, an annual awareness-raising campaign highlighting the need for the protection of migratory birds and their habitats, will be celebrated around the world on 10-11 May. This year's theme is: "Destination Flyways – Migratory Birds and Tourism," underlining the mutually beneficial relationship between tourism and conservation. Visit official website Read statement by Christiana Figueres
	UNFCCC's Christiana Figueres explains what can be done to lever investor capital to fight climate change 8 May 2014 Earlier year in New York, UNFCCC Executive Secretary Christiana Figueres called on investors to move out of high-carbon assets and into assets built on renewable energy, energy efficiency and more sustainable ways of business that green global supply chains. In an interview with responsibleinvestor.com, Ms. Figueres explains what can be done to lever this capital to fight climate change. Read the interview
	Carbon Tracker Launch Event - Carbon Supply Cost Curve 8 May 2014 In London, UNFCCC Executive Secretary Christiana Figueres helped launch a report on how the growing momentum towards low-carbon will affect the oil industry. In her opening remarks, Ms Figueres underscored the reasons to act on climate change and applauded the effort by Carbon Tracker to take the world further down the pathway to a carbon friendly future. Statement (113 kB)
	St Paul's - Climate Change: Building the Will for Action 7 May 2014 London, United Kingdom In a special address at St Paul's Cathedral in London, UNFCCC Executive Secretary Christiana Figueres spoke about the relationship between the science of climate change and the moral imperative to safeguard healthy social and economic growth. She highlighted the leadership potential of individuals and institutions, including faith groups, to help put the world on a path to low-carbon. Statement (129 kB)
	New Interactive Map Showing National Ambitions to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions The global ambition to reduce greenhouse gas emissions must be raised rapidly to meet the goal of staying below an average 2 degree temperature rise. You can check to see what individual countries themselves have put forward as their current levels of ambition on this new, interactive map. Interactive World Map Showing Pre-2020 Action by Countries
	Adaptation - Time to Better Back Local Communities 30 April 2014 Kathmandu, Nepal In remarks to the Eighth International Conference on Community-Based Adaptation, UNFCCC Executive Secretary Christiana Figueres speaks about how public and private finance, alongside government policy, can build resilience to climate change and put communities on a low-carbon pathway. Statement (188 kB) View video on Youtube Press release (204 kB)
	NRDC, BlackRock and FTSE Jumpstart Mainstream Climate-Conscious Investing 29 April 2014 The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), BlackRock and FTSE Group, the global index provider, partnered today in launching the first equity global index series that will exclude companies linked to exploration, ownership or extraction of carbon-based fossil fuel reserves. The new investment tool will allow climate-conscious investors, including foundations, universities and certain pension groups, to match their investment strategy and financial interests with their values. More
	UNFCCC Helps The Climate Group Celebrate 10 Years of Success 28 April 2014 In remarks to The Climate Group at their 10th anniversary celebration, UNFCCC Deputy Executive Director Richard Kinley highlights why the involvement of business and subnational government is crucial for the climate talks and urges The Climate Group to step up active leadership and support as governments work towards a new climate change agreement. Statement (131 kB)
	Top UN Climate Official Urges Academic Institutions to Divest from Coal 16 April 2014 Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island is today hosting an event entitled Governing Climate Change: New Ideas and Latin American Leadership as Peru Prepares to Host the 2014 UN Climate Negotiations. UNFCCC Executive Secretary Christiana Figueres will join the event via video link and will speak in the wake of the latest sobering scientific findings by Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change in its 5th Assessment Report. Press release (249 kB) Webcast
	Brazil Kicks Off Carbon Neutral Goal for FIFA World Cup 16 April 2014 The globe's biggest sporting event – the FIFA World Cup – is aiming to offset its greenhouse gas emissions this summer in a move that should inspire more event organizers to undertake high-profile climate action. Press release (142 kB)
	25 April 2014: Webinar on the design of the in-session workshop(s) on long-term climate finance in 2014 The secretariat is holding a webinar for Parties and observers on Friday 25 April to gather views on the design of the in-session workshops on long-term climate finance. The summary of the workshops will inform the high-level ministerial dialogue on climate finance in Lima. More

	Earth Day 2014 - Greening Our Cities Every year on 22 April, over a billion people in 190 countries take action for Earth Day that focuses on the unique environmental challenges of our time. As the world's population migrates to cities, and as the sobering reality of climate change becomes increasingly clear, the need to create sustainable communities is more important than ever. Earth Day 2014 will seek to do just that through its global theme: Green Cities. Visit Earth Day website More on the recent international Mayors Summit Opportunities for action on urban environment will also feature prominently during the upcoming UN climate change conference in Bonn in June. Read more
	Secretary General Says 2015 Climate Agreement Must be Ambitious and Achievable 11 April 2014 The world's Governments have pledged to reach a universal legal climate agreement by 2015. This agreement must be both ambitious and achievable because, at the same time, addressing the climate challenge presents a golden opportunity to promote prosperity, security and a brighter future for all, says Ban Ki-moon. Statement
	The United Nations Launches Decade of Sustainable Energy for All 9 April 2014 The initiative, running from 2014 to 2024, is aimed at promoting renewable energy and energy efficiency worldwide, with a forum to take place annually. The first forum is starting this coming June. Read more
	Renewable Energy Market Share Climbs Despite 2013 Dip in Investments 7 April 2014 Frankfurt / New York Renewable energy's share of world electricity generation continued its steady climb last year despite a 14 per cent drop in investments to USD 214.4 billion, according to a new report released today by the FS-UNEP Collaborating Centre for Climate & Sustainable Energy Finance. Press release (619 kB) Read report
	As WHO Marks World Health Day, UNFCCC Welcomes Nepal's 150,000 Energy Efficient Cookstoves in Country's First CDM Project 7 April 2014 The first programmatic Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) project in Nepal has been launched this week and will provide energy efficient cookstoves to 150,000 households. According to the World Health Organization, over 4 million people die prematurely from illness attributable to the household air pollution from cooking with solid fuels. Read article Read more on recent ADP renewable energy technical expert meeting Read more on recent ADP energy efficiency technical expert meeting Visit the secretariat's portal on global cooperative initiatives Visit the Momentum for Change website for inspiring examples of global climate action on the ground
	Youth Climate Campaigner on Expedition to North Pole 7 April 2014 Armed with a UN flag lent by the UNFCCC secretariat, 15-year-old Felix Finkbeiner speaks from the North Pole: "I am here to raise awareness among young people about climate change and the risks to the future of children everywhere. I implore world leaders to complete unfinished business - to put in place actions and funding to deliver a low carbon century at the UN climate conference in Paris in 2015. I want to thank Christiana Figueres and her staff for providing a UN flag and for the important work they're doing towards a better world for everyone." View short video message Visit Plant for the Planet website Visit Expedition Hope website
	EU Backs Increased Climate Cooperation with Africa, China and the US 7 April 2014 During a series of high-level meetings in Brussels last week, the EU backed increased cooperation on climate change with Africa, China and the US in the run-up to COP 21 in Paris. Following an EU-Africa ministerial summit 2-3 April, the EU and Africa said they were committed to initiate or intensify domestic preparations for their intended nationally determined contributions towards achieving the ultimate objective of the UNFCCC and to communicate them well in advance of COP 21, by the first quarter of 2015. Read more Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Brussels last week. In a joint Chinese-EU statement published 2 April, both sides recognized the need to strengthen cooperation on climate change ahead of COP 21.They underlined their commitment to making significant cuts in greenhouse gas emissions through credible and verifiable domestic action and agreed on the importance of all parties presenting their contributions well in advance of the Paris meeting. Read more Also in Brussels, the EU-US Energy Council reaffirmed its mutual determination to work towards the adoption in Paris in 2015 of a protocol, another legal instrument or an agreed outcome with legal force under the UNFCCC applicable to all Parties, to strengthen the multilateral, rules-based regime. Read more
	Address to Generation Client Conference 4 April 2014 London, United Kingdom Speaking to clients of Generation Investment Management, UNFCCC Executive Secretary Christiana Figueres highlighted the importance of pointing global finance flows towards green investments and green business models. She called on investors to actively work towards this goal over the next 18 months to build confidence that increases ambition in national policy. Statement (128 kB)
	Christiana Figueres Calls on Oil and Gas Industry to Undertake Radical Transformation towards New, Sustainable Energy Mix 3 April 2014 London, United Kingdom In an address to the global oil and gas industry association for environmental and social issues (IPIECA), UNFCCC Executive Secretary Christiana Figueres called on the oil and gas industry to undertake a radical transformation towards a new, sustainable energy mix in order to align itself with the physical and political realities of climate change. Statement (118 kB) Press release (201 kB)
	Christiana Figueres Says Latest IPCC Findings Point to Extreme Climate Risk, Plethora of Opportunities for Climate Action 31 March 2014 Bonn, Germany UNFCCC Executive Secretary Christiana Figueres today said the latest government-approved science more clearly than ever points to the extreme risks posed by climate change, as well as the many opportunities to put the world on a safer and more resilient path. Press release (142 kB)
	UN Climate Change Secretariat to Showcase Worldwide Climate Action: Call for Applications Now Open 31 March 2014 Bonn, Germany Starting today, communities, businesses and governments that are taking the lead on tackling climate change can apply to have their game-changing projects recognized by the UN Climate Change secretariat. The secretariat's Momentum for Change initiative officially opened the call for applications for its 2014 Lighthouse Activities Press release (123 kB) esp (197 kB) fr (195 kB) Watch Google Hangout with Christiana Figueres
	In Year of Climate Ambition, Cape Town Blazes a Trail for Urban Action 28 March 2014 Vancouver/Bonn/New York Three prominent personalities in the field of climate action congratulated Cape Town for winning this year's Earth Hour City Challenge. The Earth Hour City Challenge is a year-long competition to promote renewable energy and prepare for climate change. Joint press release (1005 kB)
	Address to opening plenary of IPCC Working Group II in Japan 25 March 2014 In a video address to the opening plenary of the IPCC's Working Group II in Japan, UNFCCC Executive Secretary Christiana Figueres thanked all the scientists for their hard work in completing this second instalment of the Fifth Assessment Report on impacts, adaptation and vulnerability. She said this report, together with the contribution of WG III expected to be adopted in two weeks in Berlin, will shine unprecedented light on how we can meet the climate change challenge. View video
	Address to Generation Client Conference 4 April 2014 Speaking to clients of Generation Investment Management, UNFCCC Executive Secretary Christiana Figueres highlighted the importance of pointing global finance flows towards green investments and green business models. She called on investors to actively work towards this goal over the next 18 months to build confidence that increases ambition in national policy. Read more
	Climate change is putting world at risk of irreversible changes, scientists warn 18 March 2014 In a rare intervention into a policy debate, the American Association for the Advancement of Scientists urged Americans to act swiftly to reduce greenhouse gas emissions – and lower the risks of leaving a climate catastrophe for future generations. More
	World Meteorological Day Focuses on Youth 23 March 2014 "Weather and Climate: Engaging Youth" is the theme of World Meteorological Day 2014, seeking to increase awareness among young people about climate change and mobilize them as champions for action. Read press release \| Visit new WMO Youth Corner in 6 languages WMO Annual Climate Statement Highlights Extreme Events The year 2013 once again demonstrated the dramatic impact of droughts, heat waves, floods and tropical cyclones on people and property in all parts of the planet, according to the WMO's Annual Statement on the Status of the Climate. The report confirms that 2013 tied with 2007 as the sixth warmest on record, continuing the long-term global warming trend. It provides a snapshot of extreme events as well as details of ice cover, ocean warming, sea level rise and greenhouse gas concentrations – all inter-related indicators of our changing climate. Read press release \| Summary and full reports available here
	International Day of Forests 21 March 2014 The United Nations General Assembly has declared 21 March the International Day of Forests. This new global celebration of forests builds on the success of the International Year of Forests in 2011, and provides a platform to raise awareness of the importance of all types of forests and of trees outside forests.Visit official website New Report by the International Resource Panel (IRP) Provides Routes to Integrating REDD+ into Green Economy Approaches 21 March 2014 According to a new IRP report, an investment of USD 30 billion per year - under seven per cent of the USD 480 billion paid in annual global fossil fuel subsidies - in the REDD+ forest conservation initiative can speed up the global transition to green and sustainable growth and ensure the long-term wellbeing of tens of millions in developing countries. View publication \| View press release \| More on REDD+ This is also a moment for reflection. Four fifths of the forest that covered almost half of the Earth's land surface eight thousand years ago have already been irreplaceably degraded or destroyed. Read more
	Negotiations towards new universal climate agreement in 2015 get underway 14 March 2014 Countries got down to the business of fleshing out how a new universal agreement on climate change might look by the deadline of Paris 2015 as part of worldwide efforts to keep a global temperature rise under 2 degrees Celsius this century. Press release (161 kB)
	Decisive Action Needed on New Climate Deal, Say Ministers and Experts 13 March 2014 Los Cabos, Mexico Clear, decisive and urgent action on agreeing a new global climate deal is essential to minimize the impacts of climate change and protect the world's most vulnerable populations, some of the world's top authorities on climate change said during a meeting of environment ministers in Mexico. Press release
	Call for projects: NAMA registry announces 1 million Euros from the Government of Austria The Republic of Austria has offered Euro1 million of support for the preparation of Nationally Appropriate Mitigation Actions (NAMAs) under the registry. The registry matches NAMAs in need of support with funders willing to provide that support. The funds from Austria represent an active call to developing countries to bring forward requests for funding. More
	Executive Secretary urges national legislatures to build greater political space for a strong 2015 climate agreement by swift ratification of amendment to Kyoto Protocol 24 February 2014 Executive Secretary Christiana Figueres has urged national legislatures to swiftly ratify the Doha Amendment to the Kyoto Protocol, which establishes a second commitment period and introduces legal changes required for its implementation."We need national legislatures to support the agreements which have already been made under the international climate negotiations. The amendment is particularly important because it underlines the continued commitments of industrialized countries to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions," she said.
	Executive Secretary opens ADP Meeting, starting 2014 climate change talks in Bonn 10 March 2014 At the opening of the fourth part of the second session of the ADP in Bonn, Germany, UNFCCC Executive Secretary Christiana Figueres highlighted that Parties are not acting alone on climate change and urged governments to work together in the spirit of cooperation. Statement (110 kB)
	International Women's Day 8 March 2014 The United Nations is organizing a series of events around the world to celebrate this year's International Women's Day on the theme "Equality for women is progress to all." Celebrations start with a high-level event at United Nations headquarters in New York on 7 March. Read more Visit International Women's Day website Read UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon's message on international women's day
	Why women are the secret weapon to tackling climate change 6 March 2014 As countries around the world look to celebrate International Women's Day on 8 March, in an editorial for CNN UNFCCC Executive Secretary Christiana Figueres speaks about the importance of reflecting on the unique position of women when it comes to climate change, and highlights some inspiring examples of action led by women who are already experiencing the effects of climate change and developing solutions to address them. More
	UNFCCC celebrates International Women's Day The UNFCCC secretariat joins this year's celebrations of International Women's Day on 8 March by highlighting women's inspiring actions and the importance of gender equality for addressing climate change. The theme of this year's International Women's Day - 'Equality for women is progress for all' - is particularly pertinent when it comes to climate action. Read more
	UNFCCC Newsletter: Focus on March session of the ADP 5 March 2014 The focus in this latest edition of the newsletter is on the first session in 2014 of the Ad Hoc Working Group on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action (ADP), taking place in Bonn from 10-14 March. It features a video message by UNFCCC Executive Secretary, Christiana Figueres, as well as an in-depth article by the ADP Co-Chairs, Mr. Kishan Kumarsingh of Trinidad and Tobago and Mr. Artur Runge-Metzger of the European Union. Newsletter \| Boletín
	First round of UN climate change negotiations in 2014 set to kick off in Bonn 5 March 2014 Bonn, Germany This year's UN climate change negotiations kick off in Bonn next week, marking the beginning of an intense year of conferences and summits designed to lead to a meaningful, universal agreement in Paris in late 2015. The meeting (10 – 14 March) will include work towards the new global climate agreement, to enter into force from 2020, and work to find ways to boost immediate, effective climate action. Press release (159 kB)
	South Sudan deposits its instrument of accession South Sudan deposited its instrument of accession to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change on 17 February 2014. The Convention will enter into force for South Sudan on 18 May 2014. South Sudan's accession will bring the number of Parties to the Convention - both States and regional economic integration organizations - to 196, as of 18 May 2014. A full list of the Parties who have ratified or acceded to the Convention can be found here.
	2nd GLOBE Legislation Summit 27 February 2014 Washington D.C. USA Speaking at the launch of the 4th GLOBE Climate Legislation Study and the Partnership for Climate Legislation in Washington D.C., UNFCCC Executive Secretary Christiana Figueres underlined the key role of national legislation in reaching a 2015 climate agreement. She urged legislators to cut through partisan divide with practical truth and recognize climate action as sound economic, security, health and development policy. Statement
	Royal Society and US National Academy of Sciences release joint publication on climate change 27 February 2014 The Royal Society and the US National Academy of Sciences have released a joint publication that explains the clear evidence that humans are causing the climate to change, and that addresses a variety of other key questions commonly asked about climate change science. More
	Climate talks in Paris look promising 25 February 2014 The wild weather being witnessed across the globe - from Australia's hottest summer to Britain's wettest winter - is spelling out some of the sobering impacts facing everyone from unchecked climate change. In a joint editorial, UNFCCC Executive Secretary Christiana Figueres and Paul Polman, Chief Executive Officer of Unilever, talk about how the unprecedented impacts are a wake-up call to all of us. More
	UN kicks off International Year to raise profile of small island developing countries 24 February 2014 While drawing attention to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, the International Year of Small Island Developing States – which kicked off today at the United Nations – is also a chance to address increasing environmental degradation, and social and economic marginalization in those countries. More
	Green Climate Fund Board takes key decisions on operations and makes progress on 'Essential Eight' 22 February 2014 Bali, Indonesia The Board of the Green Climate Fund met in Indonesia to progress the eight essential requirements for its initial resource mobilization and take fundamental decisions to advance the institution's operations. More
	Dynamic new platform to protect forests worldwide 21 February 2014 Washington D.C., USA The World Resources Institute (WRI), Google, UNEP and a group of more than 40 partners yesterday launched Global Forest Watch (GFW), a dynamic online forest monitoring and alert system that empowers people everywhere to better manage forests. For the first time, Global Forest Watch unites the latest satellite technology, open data and crowdsourcing to guarantee access to timely and reliable information about forests. More
	High-level ministerial engagement at the June sessions 10 February 2014 The high-level ministerial round table on increased ambition of Kyoto Protocol commitments (mandated by Decision 1/CMP.8, para. 10) will take place on Thursday 5 June. The high-level ministerial dialogue on the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action (mandated by Decision 1/CP.19, para. 7) will take place on Friday 6 June. Further information on these events will be made available soon. The COP 19/CMP 9 President, Mr. Marcin Korolec, will preside over these two high-level events.
	Christiana Figueres speaks at the C40 Cities Mayors Summit 5 February 2014 In remarks to mayors of the world's largest cities gathered in Johannesburg, South Africa, UNFCCC Executive Secretary Christiana Figueres recognizes the leadership of cities in advancing the global climate change agenda and outlines specific actions cities can take to become more vocal in the international dialogue regarding climate change response. Statement (147 kB)
	COP 19 and CMP 9 Reports published 31 January 2014 The Reports of COP 19 and CMP 9 are now available online. The Reports contain the COP 19 and CMP 9 decisions taken at the Warsaw Conference and the proceedings from the sessions of COP 19 and CMP 9.
	UN Secretary-General visits Bonn UN Campus 31 January 2014 Bonn, Germany UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon visited the UN Campus in Bonn today and spoke to UN staff in the new UNFCCC headquarters building. He called on staff to rise to three core challenges: To help implement the existing Millennium Development Goals, help design the new Sustainable Development Goals and help conclude the 2015 global climate change agreement.
	Michael Bloomberg appointed Special Envoy for Cities & Climate Change 31 January 2014 The former Mayor of New York, Michael Bloomberg, has been appointed Special Envoy for Cities and Climate Change by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. His mission: to spur the major cities of the world, responsible for around 70% of all energy-related greenhouse gas emissions, to greater climate action - also in support of an effective global climate agreement in 2015 More
	UN's Top Climate Official Welcomes Appointment of Jukka Uosukainen as Director of New Climate Technology Centre and Network 17 January 2014 Bonn, Germany Jukka Uosukainen, a Finnish national, has been chosen as the Director of the Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN). His appointment was today welcomed by UNFCCC Executive Secretary Christiana Figueres.
	Safeguarding Future Retirement Funds – Time for Investors to Move Out of High-Carbon Assets Says UN's Top Climate Official 15 January 2014 New York, USA The UN's top climate change official Christiana Figueres today urged investors to accelerate the greening of their portfolios as one crucial step towards a low-carbon economy that can better cope with the threats and seize the opportunities from climate change. Press release (151 kB)
	Bloomberg: Global carbon market set for 15 per cent upturn 13 January 2014 According to Bloomberg New Energy Finance (BNEF), the global carbon market will be worth Euro 46bn in 2014, rising 15 per cent from last year's rock bottom value of Euro 40bn. Prices now stand at around Euro 5 per tonne of CO2, but BNEF expects them to rise to Euro 7.50 a tonne during the course of the year as the reduction in the number
	Surge in global solar market forecast by Deutsche Bank 10 January 2014 Leading investment house Deutsche Bank has dramatically lifted its demand forecasts for the global solar industry. It cited 5 principal reasons for its raised forecasts, which would see the global solar market almost double in size from 2012 to 2015. More

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