The thirteenth meeting of the SBSTA Research Dialogue

Addressing climate change requires understanding of the interconnectedness between all parts of the Earth’s system – climate system (ocean, atmosphere, land), nature and people. The thirteenth meeting of the research dialogue explored some of the latest knowledge on climate system dynamics, the role of nature, and building understand of climate change impacts and risks and implications for decision making. The meeting explored two themes:

Theme 1 (1 June) Climate system dynamics and modelling: New knowledge and its implications for decision making.
Theme 2 (2 June) Resilience for and by nature: Building knowledge and understanding to weave the protection and restoration of nature into decision making on mitigation and adaptation

Submissions were received from:

• Antigua and Barbuda on behalf of the Alliance of Small Island States
• Bhutan on behalf of Least Developed Countries (LDCs)
• Japan
• Portugal and the European Commission on behalf of the European Union and its member states
• United States of America 
• University of Maryland
• World Adaptation Science Programme

Earth Information Day 2021

The Earth Information Day provided a dialogue for exchanging information on the state of the global climate system and developments in systematic observation (FCCC/SBSTA/2019/2 para. 58).

Earth Information Day 2021 consisted of an in-person dialogue session and a virtual poster session and focused on two themes, as guided by submissions, and in consideration of the mandates and the wider context of ongoing work under the UNFCCC.

1. Updates on Earth observation of the climate system and climate change
2. Interpreting Earth observations for implementing the Paris Agreement – developments, opportunities and challenges

Submissions on the Earth Information Day were received from:

United Nations system and agencies

• The Global Climate Observing System (GCOS) 2021 Status Report (Full) (Summary) 

And to SBSTA 52-55 under RSO from:

Parties

• United States of America on behalf of the Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS) and the Coordination Group for Meteorological Satellites (CGMS)

United Nations system and agencies

• World Meteorological Organization (WMO)
  • Provisional State of the Global Climate 2021
  • United in Science
  • GHG Bulletin
  • 2021 State of Climate Services report: Water
  • State of the Climate in Latin America and the Caribbean 2020
  • State of the Climate in Africa 2020
  • State of the Climate in Asia 2020
  • State of the Climate in SW Pacific 2020
  • The Atlas of Mortality and Economic Losses from Weather, Climate and Water Extremes (1970–2019)
  • Climate Indicators and Sustainable Development: Demonstrating the Interconnections
  • Climate Science Information for Climate Action Initiative (Further information)
  • GBON Congress Document
  • WMO Unified Policy for the International Exchange of Earth System Data

Statements at the opening plenary of SBSTA 52-55 relevant to RSO:

• United States of America on behalf of CEOS/CGMS Working Group on Climate
• GCOS
• IOC-UNESCO
• IPCC
• WCRP
• WMO

June Momentum for Climate Change

Due to the health and safety measures put in place worldwide in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, from 1 to 10 June 2020, a series of online events were conducted under the guidance of the chairs of the SBSTA and the SBI and with the support of the UNFCCC secretariat. The series of online events offered an opportunity for Parties and other stakeholders to continue exchanging views and sharing information in order to maintain momentum in the UNFCCC process and to showcase how climate action is progressing under the special circumstances the world is currently facing.

The SBSTA Chair informal meeting with the scientific community event (8 June 2020) was organized by SBSTA chair as an information event to discuss the impacts that the COVID-19 pandemic has on science. 

Climate Change Dialogues

Due to the current health and safety measures put in place worldwide in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, COP 26 and subsidiary body sessions have been postponed to 2021. The SBSTA Chair, the SBI Chair in collaboration with the COP 25 Presidency and incoming COP 26 Presidency, launched another series of virtual events, the UN Climate Change Dialogues, November/December 2020 (Climate Dialogues) to advance work on the subsidiary bodies and COP agendas.

Earth Information Day

The Earth Information Day 2020 was held in conjunction with the Climate Change Dialogue.

SBSTA Summary Report

Submissions were received from:

• European Union on behalf of European Union
• Bhutan on behalf of the Least Developed Group of Countries (LDCs)
• Japan

The twelfth meeting of the research dialogue

The twelfth meeting of the research dialogue was held in conjunction with the Climate Change Dialogue.

SBSTA Summary Report

Submissions were received from:

• Belize on behalf of Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS)
• Gabon on behalf of the African Group
• Fiji
• Bhutan on behalf of on behalf of the Least Developed Countries Group
• European Union
• Japan

SBI 41 (1-8 December 2014), Lima

At SBI 41 the compilation and synthesis report of the sixth, and latest, Annex I national communications was presented and included information on research and systematic observation (FCCC/SBI/2014/INF.20/Add.2).

SBSTA 40 (4-15 June 2014) and the Sixth meeting of the SBSTA Research Dialogue RD7 (7 June 2014), Bonn

SBSTA conclusions: See SBSTA 40 report FCCC/SBSTA/2014/2 paragraphs 56 - 68  

The sixth meeting of the Research Dialogue (RD 6), SBSTA 40, was held on 7th June.

Documents provided for the session:

• FCCC/SBSTA/2014/INF.1 - Report on the workshop on technical and scientific aspects of ecosystems with high-carbon reservoirs not covered by other agenda items under the Convention. Note by the secretariat.

• FCCC/SBSTA/2014/INF.5 - Summary information on enhanced availability and visibility of scientific information relevant to the Convention on the UNFCCC website. Note by the secretariat.

UNFCCC Workshop on technical and scientific aspects of ecosystems with high-carbon reservoirs not covered by other agenda items under the Convention
24-25 October 2013, Bonn, Germany
 

• Workshop report

SBSTA 38 (3-14 June 2013), Bonn

For conclusions see FCCC/SBSTA/2013/3 paragraphs 64-70

The following documents were provided:

• Views on possible items for consideration as part of the research dialogue; and information on technical and scientific aspects of emissions and removals of all greenhouse gases from terrestrial ecosystems Submissions from Parties (FCCC/SBSTA/2013/MISC.4);
   
• Update on developments in research activities relevant to the needs of the Convention; and information on technical and scientific aspects of emissions and removals of all greenhouse gases from terrestrial ecosystems Submissions from regional and international research programmes and organizations (FCCC/SBSTA/2013/MISC.5 and Add.1);
   
• Views on the content of the workshop on technical and scientific aspects of ecosystems with high-carbon reservoirs not covered by other agenda items under the Convention Submissions from Parties (FCCC/SBSTA/2013/MISC.6 and Add.1 and Add.2).

The fifth meeting of the research dialogue was held on the 4 Jun 2013

SBSTA 37 (26 November - 1 December 2012, Doha, Qatar)

SBSTA 37 continued its consideration of reserach and systematic observation on the basis of the draft text from SBSTA 36.

For the full text of the SBSTA 37 conclusions on research and systematic observation, see FCCC/SBSTA/2012/5

SBSTA 36

The fourth meeting of the SBSTA research dialogue was held on the 19th May

The following contributions were provided:

• Parties' views on specific themes to be addressed at the research dialogue (see FCCC/SBSTA/2012/MISC.2 and Add.1 and Add.2);
   
• Information on developments in research activities relevant to the needs of the Convention, including with respect to the long-term global goal referred to in decision 1/CP.16, para. 4, provided by regional and international research programmes and organizations (see FCCC/SBSTA/2012/MISC.3);
   
• Information on the technical and scientific aspects of emissions by sources, removals by sinks, and reservoirs of all greenhouse gases, including emissions and removals from coastal and marine ecosystems (such as mangroves, tidal salt marshes, wetlands and seagrass meadows), with a view to identifying and quantifying the impact of human activities, provided by Parties (see FCCC/SBSTA/2012/MISC.2 and Add.1 and Add.2) and relevant research programmes and organizations active in climate change research, including marine research (see FCCC/SBSTA/2012/MISC.3).
   
• SBSTA 36 took note of the view of Parties and the progress made in developing draft conclusions under this agenda item, and agreed to continue consideration of research and systematic observation at SBSTA 37 on the basis of the draft text contained in Annex II of FCCC/SBSTA/2012/2.

COP 17 (November-December 2011), Durban, South Africa

Decision 11/CP.17
 

COP 17 adopted decision 11/CP.17 containing guidance to the Global Environment Facility (GEF), forwarded by SBI 35, requesting the GEF to, inter alia, continue to provide financial resources to developing countries for strengthening existing and, where needed, establishing national and regional systematic observation and monitoring networks under the Least Developed Countries Fund and the Special Climate Change Fund.

SBI 35 November-December 2011, Durban, South Africa and SBI 34, June 2011, Bonn, Germany

Conclusions
 

SBI 35 FCCC/SBI/2011/17
SBI 34 FCCC/SBI/2011/7

SBI 35 took note of the information provided, including the clarification by the GEF that its mandate under the Least Developed Countries Fund and Special Climate Change Fund covers the activities identified in decision 5/CP.7, paragraph 7(a)(iv).

SBI 35 recommended that COP 17 requests that the GEF under these two instruments continues to provide financial resources to developing countries to strengthen and establish national and regional systematic observation and monitoring networks (see FCCC/SBI/2011/17, paragraphs 55-59).

SBI 34, under its agenda item 5(c) Financial mechanism of the Convention - Other matters, considered the invitation by SBSTA 33 to discuss the funding needs for global climate observations and to explore how further support could be provided to strengthen observation networks and capabilities in developing countries. The SBI also noted the information on additional funding needs identified in the 2010 updated GCOS implementation plan. Following this consideration, SBI invited the following information to be provided for consideration at SBI 35:

• Response by the GEF to clarify in its annual report to COP 17 whether activities in decision 5/CP.7, paragraph 7(a)(iv) fall within its mandate (for activities referred to here see paragraph 230 of document FCCC/CP/2011/7);
   
• Submissions by Parties on support provided to developing country Parties and activities undertaken to strengthen existing and, where needed, establish national and regional systematic observation and monitoring networks (see FCCC/SBI/2011/MISC.6 and Add.1);
   
• Compilation by the secretariat on information provided by Parties in their submissions referred to above and from national communications from Annex I Parties (see FCCC/SBI/2011/INF.10).

SBSTA 35 November-December 2011, Durban, South Africa

Conclusions
 

FCCC/SBSTA/2011/5

SBSTA 35 focused mainly on matters related to the research dialogue.

With regard to systematic observation, the SBSTA took note of the summary of progress by the GTOS secretariat on the development of methodologies, standards and protocols for climate-related terrestrial observations and related matters (see FCCC/SBSTA/2011/MISC.14), provided in response to an invitation by SBSTA 33. SBSTA agreed to consider this information, in conjunction with any further updates received from GTOS on this matter, as well as matters related to the GCOS, at SBSTA 36 (see FCCC/SBSTA/2011/5, paragraph 44).

The SBSTA also noted with appreciation the statement by the WMO on progress towards the implementation of the Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS), and recognized the GFCS as an important initiative to underpin science-based adaptation and to support countries in meeting the challenges of climate variability and change. The SBSTA invited WMO to continue to provide information on progress in the implementation of the GFCS at future SBSTA sessions (see FCCC/SBSTA/2011/5, paragraphs 45 and 46).

COP 17

Decision 16/CP.17 FCCC/CP/2011/9/Add.2, inter alia, urges Parties, in particular developing country Parties, and invites regional and international research programmes and organizations active in climate change research, to utilize the research dialogue as a forum for:

• Discussing needs for climate change research and research-related capacity-building, particularly those of developing countries, to support the work of the Convention;
   
• Conveying research findings and lessons learned from activities undertaken by regional and international research programmes and organizations of relevance to the Convention. 

SBSTA 35 (28 November - 3 December 2011, Durban, South Africa)

SBSTA considered matters related to research, as agreed at SBSTA 34, including views submitted by Parties on the research dialogue (FCCC/SBSTA/2011/MISC.8 and Add.1), including on ongoing activities, associated modalities and ways to enhance the dialogue.

The SBSTA agreed that the research dialogue should continue on a regular basis, with the next research dialogue to take place at SBSTA 36, and invited Parties to submit their views on specific themes to be addressed. SBSTA also referred to the progress made in the implementation of decision 9/CP.11 and successful activities undertaken in the context of the research dialogue, including the workshop organized in conjunction with SBSTA 34, and recalled its conclusions from SBSTA 34 relevant to possible further workshops.

SBSTA also concluded that information on technical and scientific aspects of emissions and removals of GHGs from coastal and marine ecosystems, such as mangroves, tidal salt marshes, wetlands and seagrass meadows would be considered as a theme for the next research dialogue, taking into account information on this matter submitted by Parties and  relevant research programmes and organizations active in climate change research, including marine research, and taking into account views on other specific themes to be submitted by Parties. The SBSTA also noted that there are other important ecosystems with high-carbon reservoirs, such as steppe, tundra and peatlands. SBSTA 36 may consider the need for a workshop to give in-depth consideration to the themes considered in the research dialogue.

For the full text of the SBSTA 35 conclusions on research and systematic observation, see FCCC/SBSTA/2011/5, paragraphs 34-49.

SBSTA 34

Prior to SBSTA 34, on 2-3 June 2011, the secretariat organized a workshop on research, with the objective to consider in-depth the issues addressed in the research dialogue, as requested by SBSTA 32. The workshop also responded to the need to further enhance interaction between the science and policy communities by strengthening the research dialogue between Parties and research programmes and organizations. In addition, a regular SBSTA research dialogue meeting was organized during SBSTA 34. The workshop and the dialogue meeting were organized around the following three major themes:

• Understanding the science: Recent climate change research findings and uncertainty management;
• Communicating climate change science; and
• Building capacity for research in developing countries.

For the full text of the SBSTA 34 conclusions on research and systematic observation, see FCCC/SBSTA/2011/2, paragraphs 42-56.

SBSTA 33, December 2010, Cancun, Mexico

Conclusions
 

FCCC/SBSTA/2010/13

Submissions
 

• An update of the GCOS implementation plan (by the GCOS secretariat) (executive summary contained in document FCCC/SBSTA/2010/MISC.9
   
• A report on the results of the implementation of the framework for climate-related terrestrial observations and on the elaboration of a work plan for developing observational standards and protocols for the 13 terrestrial ECVs assessed (by the GTOS secretariat) (executive summary contained in document FCCC/SBSTA/2010/MISC.10
   
• A report on progress by space agencies involved in global observations in their coordinated response to the GCOS and relevant needs of the Convention (by CEOS) (executive summary contained in document FCCC/SBSTA/2010/MISC.11).

Statements
 

• GCOS, GTOS, GOOS and CEOS.

SBSTA 33 urged Parties to work towards full implementation of the updated GCOS implementation plan. GCOS secretariat was invited to report on progress made in this regard on a regular basis.

SBSTA also urged Parties to support the development of terrestrial standards and improving terrestrial networks in close cooperation with GTOS and invited GTOS to report on progress in the development of methodologies, standards and protocols for climate-related terrestrial observations and related matters at SBSTA 35.

SBSTA encouraged Parties to continue cooperation through CEOS, including through responding to the needs identified in the GCOS implementation plan. CEOS was invited to provide, by SBSTA 37, an updated report on progress made on major achievements.

Following its consideration of the information provided in the GCOS implementation plan related to additional funding requirements for meeting the essential needs for global climate observations, SBSTA urged Parties in a position to do so to provide support needed to strengthen observation networks and capabilities in developing countries. SBSTA invited SBI to consider these funding needs at SBI 34 and also invited AWG-LCA to consider these funding needs in the context of the future financial architecture.

Issues of relevance to systematic observation were also under consideration under other agenda items, such as under the Nairobi work programme on impacts, vulnerability and adaptation to climate change. In particular, SBSTA 33 had before it the outcomes from a technical workshop on how regional centres and networks undertaking work relevant to climate change could collaborate (Samoa, 2-5 March 2010).

SBSTA 33

At SBSTA 33, the secretariat organized a side event on climate change research to facilitate the provision of updated information on emerging scientific findings and research outcomes by the research programmes and organizations, in response to the invitation by SBSTA 32.  Research programmes and organizations also provided such information in written submissions, which are contained in document FCCC/SBSTA/2010/MISC.15.

SBSTA 32

Meetings under the SBSTA research dialogue in the context of decision 9/CP.11 have established continuity and are taking place at regular intervals during every second session of the SBSTA. 

The research dialogue held during SBSTA 32 (3 June 2010) was enhanced from previous dialogues by allowing more time for in-depth consideration by Parties of updates on emerging scientific findings and developments provided by regional and international research programmes and organizations, and with time devoted to presentations by Parties. 

In addition to the presentations delivered during the research dialogue meeting,  relevant information was also provided prior to the session.  Views of Parties on topics for discussion at SBSTA 32 research dialogue meeting are contained in document FCCC/SBSTA/2010/MISC.4, and updates on developments in research activities relevant to the needs of the Convention submitted by regional and international climate change research programmes and organizations are included in document FCCC/SBSTA/2010/MISC.6.  

SBSTA 32 recalled the valuable role that the research dialogue is playing in informing deliberations within the UNFCCC process, and agreed that the dialogue should be continued at SBSTA 34 and beyond. 

For the full text of the SBSTA 32 conclusions on research and systematic observation, see FCCC/SBSTA/2010/6, paragraphs 42-54.

COP 15, December 2009, Copenhagen, Denmark

Decision 9/CP.15
 

COP 15 adopted a decision on Systematic climate observations, which inter alia:

• Urges Parties and invites relevant United Nations agencies and international organizations to work towards addressing the priorities and gaps identified in the report on progress with the GCOS Implementation Plan (FCCC/SBSTA/2009/MISC.7), in particular the implementation of the regional action plans that were developed during 2001-2006, and ensuring sustained long-term operation of essential in situ networks, especially for the oceanic and terrestrial domains, including through provision of the necessary resources.
   
• Encourages Parties in a position to do so to support sustaining climate observations over the long term in developing countries (especially in LDCs and SIDS);
   
• Invites GCOS to update, by SBSTA 33, the GCOS Implementation Plan, taking into account emerging needs in climate observation, in particular those relating to adaptation activities;
   
• Encourages GTOS to implement the framework for the preparation of guidance materials, standards and reporting guidelines for terrestrial observing systems for climate, as a joint terrestrial framework mechanism between relevant agencies of the UN and ISO;
   
• Encourages the CEOS to continue coordinating and supporting the implementation of the satellite component of the GCOS;
   
• Urges Parties that support space agencies involved in global observations to enable continued implementation of actions identified in the updated report of the CEOS (FCCC/SBSTA/2008/MISC.11), in order to meet the relevant needs of the Convention, in particular by ensuring long-term continuity of observations and data availability.

COP 15 further noted with appreciation the outcome of World Climate Conference-3 (Geneva, 31 August to 4 September 2009) organized by the WMO and its partner organizations, in particular the decision to establish a Global Framework for Climate Services to strengthen the production, availability, delivery and application of science-based climate prediction and services.

SBSTA 31

Conclusions
 

FCCC/SBSTA/2009/8, paragraphs 35-42.

Submissions
 

• Provisional update of the GCOS implementation plan (FCCC/SBSTA/2009/MISC.12), which was welcomed by the SBSTA.
• WMO information on the outcome of World Climate Conference-3 (Geneva, 31 August to 4 September 2009).

SBSTA 30, June 2009, Bonn, Germany

Conclusions
 

FCCC/SBSTA/2009/3, paragraphs 43-66

Submissions
 

• Report on progress with the GCOS implementation plan (FCCC/SBSTA/2009/MISC.7);
• A synthesis report on national information on systematic observations for climate (FCCC/SBSTA/2009/MISC.7/Add.1);
• A report on progress in assessing the status of the development of standards for essential climate variables in the terrestrial domain (FCCC/SBSTA/2009/MISC.8);
• A report on progress made by space agencies involved in global observations in implementing actions in response to the GCOS implementation plan (FCCC/SBSTA/2008/MISC.11).

Following consideration of the above reports, the SBSTA, inter alia:

• Noted the priorities stated in the GCOS progress report; and
• Invited GCOS to provide a provisional updated implementation plan in conjunction with a provisional estimation of costs prior to COP 15.

SBSTA 30

The research dialogue held during SBSTA 30 (3 June 2009) constituted a major event under the research theme.  It allowed for further in-depth consideration of the following developments in research activities relevant to the needs of the Convention (see FCCC/SBSTA/2007/4, paragraphs 47 (a-f)).

Information on these matters was also provided prior to the session by relevant regional and international climate change research programmes and organizations (see FCCC/SBSTA/2009/MISC.5).

Following consideration of information provided and its deliberations during SBSTA 30, the SBSTA:

• Affirmed the valuable role of the research dialogue in providing new scientific information and noted its importance for informing deliberations within the UNFCCC process;
   
• Invited the research programmes and organizations to continue to provide information pertaining to their relevant activities (see FCCC/SBSTA/2007/4, paragraphs 47 (a-f));
   
• Encouraged research programmes and organizations to:
  • continue to enhance the understanding of climate change, and to address key uncertainties identified in the IPCC AR4;
  • enhance efforts towards greater integration of climate-related research across all disciplines;
  • enhance their activities relating to developing countries;
     
• Encouraged Parties and research programmes and organizations to enhance their existing efforts to build capacity for research in developing countries, in particular those aimed at supporting adaptation efforts (e.g. under the Nairobi work programme);

Noted the importance of research and systematic observation in underpinning the Convention and invited the AWG-LCA to note a need to strengthen such research and systematic observation, especially in developing countries and relevant to adaptation.

SBSTA 29, December 2008

SBSTA 29 conclusions

Submissions
 

• GTOS report on progress in assessing the status of the development of standards for essential climate variables in the terrestrial domain, including on the framework for terrestrial climate-related observations (see FCCC/SBSTA/2008/MISC.12).
   
• The CEOS updated report on progress by space agencies involved in global observations in implementing actions in response to the GCOS implementation plan (see FCCC/SBSTA/2008/MISC.11). 

SBSTA 29 welcomed these reports and decided to defer their consideration to SBSTA 30 when it will also consider the comprehensive report on progress with the GCOS implementation plan to be provided by the GCOS secretariat for that session.

SBSTA 28

In response to the invitation by SBSTA 26 to regularly provide information (see FCCC/SBSTA/2007/4, para. 47(a-f)), the ESSP - on behalf of its member programmes - the IAI and the APN provided summary information on a number of issues related to developments in research activities relevant to the needs of the Convention as identified during SBSTA 26 (see FCCC/SBSTA/2008/MISC.8 and Add.1).  Furthermore, the secretariat invited relevant research programmes and organizations and the IPCC to an informal discussion with Parties on developments in research activities relevant to the needs of the Convention, during which representatives from the research programmes and organizations and the IPCC outlined information on their activities in response to the issues identified by SBSTA 26, including on emerging scientific findings. For more information see Research dialogue.

The SBSTA emphasized the usefulness of continuing and further enhancing the research dialogue between Parties and regional and international climate change research programmes and organizations that is taking place in the context of decision 9/CP.11 on research needs relating to the Convention,  including though broadening the participation of relevant regional research organizations. 

It requested the secretariat to prepare, prior to SBSTA 30, a list of international and regional programmes and organizations active in areas of research relevant to climate change.   

The SBSTA further agreed to allow further in-depth consideration of the activities identified by SBSTA 26 (FCCC/SBSTA/2007/4, para. 47(a-f)) during future dialogue meetings under the SBSTA and invited the research programmes and organizations to continue to provide information pertaining to these activities at the thirtieth and subsequent sessions of the SBSTA. 

COP 13

COP 13 in Bali (December 2007) adopted, by decision 11/CP.13, revised UNFCCC reporting guidelines on global climate change observing system (FCCC/CP/2007/6/Add.2) to be used for the preparation of detailed reports on systematic observations.  Such reports are provided by Annex I Parties in conjunction with their national communications and on a voluntary basis by non-Annex I Parties.

SBSTA 27

At SBSTA 27 (Bali, December 2007), Parties welcomed the progress reports by the GTOS secretariat on the assessment of the status of the development of standards for essential climate variables in the terrestrial domain and on the framework for the preparation of guidance materials, standards and reporting guidelines for terrestrial observing systems for climate (FCCC/SBSTA/2007/MISC.27). The SBSTA encouraged the GTOS secretariat and the sponsoring agencies of GTOS to continue their work, taking into account a number of criteria in the further development of the framework. The SBSTA invited the GTOS secretariat to report on progress to SBSTA 29. For the full text of the SBSTA 27 conclusions see FCCC/SBSTA/2007/16.

SBSTA 27 also received an updated proposal for UNFCCC reporting guidelines on climate change observing systems (FCCC/SBSTA/2007/MISC.26) by the GCOS secretariat, based on comments received by scientific and government experts. Following consideration of that proposal, Parties recommended a draft decision containing revised UNFCCC reporting guidelines on global climate change observing systems for adoption by COP 13.

SBSTA 26

At SBSTA 26 (Bonn, June 2007), the secretariat of the GTOS submitted two progress reports in response to previous mandates by the SBSTA, one on the development of a framework for the preparation of guidance materials, standards and reporting guidelines for terrestrial observing systems for climate, and one on the assessment of the status of the development of standards for each of the essential climate variables in the terrestrial domain (FCCC/SBSTA/2007/MISC.6). In addition, the GTOS secretariat provided progress reports on both issues for consideration at SBSTA 27.

SBSTA 25

At SBSTA 25 (Nairobi, December 2006) Parties considered a proposal for the possible revision of the UNFCCC reporting guidelines on global climate change observing system (FCCC/SBSTA/2006/MISC.12) provided by the GCOS secretariat. The SBSTA agreed to further consider revised guidelines at SBSTA 27 with a view of recommending revised guidelines for adoption by COP 13.

SBSTA 25 also received the report on the results of the GCOS regional workshop programme (FCCC/SBSTA/2006/MISC.13) and encouraged advancing implementation of the actions outlined in the regional action plans produced under that programme.

Furthermore, the SBSTA welcomed the report by the CEOS on the coordinated response by space agencies involved in global observations to the needs expressed in the GCOS implementation plan (FCCC/SBSTA/2006/MISC.14) and asked for continuation of such efforts.

SBSTA 24

At SBSTA 24 (Bonn, May 2006), Parties considered a synthesis report of the research needs and priorities relating to the Convention (see FCCC/SBSTA/2006/INF.2), which included information on research needs and priorities identified in various documents including submissions by Parties received prior to SBSTA 24 (see FCCC/SBSTA/2006/MISC.3 and Add.1). 

Also at SBSTA 24, the secretariat organized a special side event on research needs relating to the Convention with the aim of enhancing communication between climate change research programmes and the SBSTA.  This side event benefited from the participation of regional and international climate change research programmes and organizations who informed participants on their current activities to address the research needs of the Convention, including on-going efforts to enhance the capacity and participation of developing countries in climate change research.  In addition, representatives from a number of Parties provided information on their research activities and needs from a national perspective.  In response to the special side event, the participating research programmes and organizations provided brief summary reports on the information provided during the event, including identification of any gaps in their research programmes with regard to the needs of the Convention (see FCCC/SBSTA/2006/MISC.15). 

The SBSTA also identified a need for enhancing two-way communication and cooperation between the Parties and regional and international climate change research programmes, and agreed to explore how it might facilitate a more effective dialogue between Parties and these programmes.  To this end, Parties and relevant research programmes and organizations provided their views (see FCCC/SBSTA/2007/MISC.7 and FCCC/SBSTA/2007/MISC.8) for consideration at SBSTA 26 (May 2007).  To further facilitate the development of the dialogue, the SBSTA asked the secretariat to organize a meeting for an informal discussion among Parties with the participation of regional and international climate change research programmes and the IPCC. 

As mandated, the secretariat organized during SBSTA 26 an informal discussion on a more effective dialogue between Parties and regional and international climate change research programmes and organizations in the context of decision 9/CP11.  The meeting provided a platform for Parties and representatives of research programmes and organizations and the IPCC to exchange views on how the SBSTA might facilitate a more effective dialogue between Parties and the research community. 

The SBSTA also agreed to establish and maintain the dialogue on research needs under the Convention between Parties and climate change research programmes and organizations, and invited relevant programmes and organizations to regularly inform the SBSTA of developments in research activities relevant to the needs of the Convention, (see FCCC/SBSTA/2007/4, para. 47 (a-f)) including :

1. Emerging scientific findings;
2. Research planning activities, including those undertaken in response to key uncertainties and research needs identified by the IPCC or raised by Parties;
3. Research priorities, and gaps in the implementation of these priorities;
4. Research capacity-building activities, particularly in developing countries;
5. Regional climate change research networks;
6. Relevant communication issues.

To this end, it requested the secretariat to invite relevant research programmes and organizations to consider the above issues in an informal discussion at SBSTA 28.

SBSTA 23

SBSTA 23 (Montreal, December 2005) welcomed the following reports received in response to earlier mandates:

• Report from the GCOS secretariat on progress with the GCOS implementation plan (FCCC/SBSTA/2005/MISC.14)
• Report from the Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS) on a coordinated response from space agencies involved in global observations to the needs expressed in the GCOS implementation plan (FCCC/SBSTA/2005/MISC.17/Rev.1)
• Report by the GTOS secretariat on progress in developing a framework for the preparation of guidance materials, standards and reporting guidelines for terrestrial observing systems for climate (FCCC/SBSTA/2005/MISC.16).

SBSTA 23 expressed a number of requests to related agencies and Parties in regard to the GCOS implementation plan, regional workshop programmes and observational needs, including:

• Inviting the GTOS secretariat to report on the progress in developing a framework for the preparation of guidance materials, standards and reporting guidelines for terrestrial observing systems for climate by SBSTA 26 (May 2007) and to assess the status of the development of standards for each of the essential climate variables in the terrestrial domain.
• Requesting the GCOS secretariat to provide a comprehensive report on progress with the GCOS implementation plan at SBSTA 30 (June 2009).
• Inviting Parties to submit to the secretariat, by 15 September 2008, additional information on their national activities with respect to implementing the GCOS implementation plan.
• Inviting the GCOS secretariat to submit to the SBSTA a proposal on ways and means to address the needs for consideration of the revision of the UNFCCC reporting guidelines on global climate change observing systems at SBSTA25.
• Inviting the GCOS secretariat, in cooperation with the Regional Workshop Advisory Committee, to report on the results of the programme at SBSTA 25.

SBSTA 22
 

At SBSTA 22 (Bonn, May/June 2005), Parties welcomed the report on progress made towards implementing the initial ocean climate observing system and the final report on the analysis of data exchange in global atmospheric and hydrological networks provided by the GCOS secretariat in consultation with the WMO.

SBSTA 22 also welcomed the endorsement of the 10-year Implementation Plan at the third Earth Observation Summit (February 2005) which establishes the Global Earth Observation System of Systems (GEOSS) as an important development in systematic observation to contribute to the enhancement of climate change research, as well as the continuing contribution of the GCOS to this process.

COP 11

COP 11 (Montreal, November/December 2005), by its decision 9/CP.11, recognized the importance of scientific research in meeting the needs of the Convention and requested Parties to identify research needs and priorities to support the implementation of the Convention.  It also requested the SBSTA to regularly consider research needs relating to the Convention in order to inform Parties about ongoing and planned activities of regional and international climate change research programmes and to communicate Parties views on research needs and priorities to the scientific community, as necessary.  To this end, the COP invited the research programmes and organizations to consider research needs, as viewed by Parties and communicated through the SBSTA, and to inform the SBSTA on how these programmes and organizations are addressing those research needs.

SBSTA 22

At SBSTA 22 (Bonn, May 2005), Parties welcomed efforts of the national, regional and international global change research programmes to further promote and coordinate research in response to the needs of the Convention and invited them to provide periodic updates on their scientific activities.  It asked Parties to submit information on identified research needs and priorities relating to the Convention and requested the secretariat to organize a special side event during SBSTA 24 with the aim of enhancing communication between climate change research programmes and organizations and the SBSTA.

Since 2002,  the SBSTA has regularly considered priority areas of research and questions for the scientific community relevant to the Convention (views of Parties, as well as a synthesis on this issue, are contained in FCCC/SBSTA/2002/MISC.15 and Add.1, and FCCC/SBSTA/2002/INF.17).  During SBSTA 17 (New Delhi, October/November 2002), research priorities for the scientific community were discussed during a special side event on 28 October 2002, which benefited from the participation of representatives from international programmes and organizations (World Climate Research Programme (WCRP), International Geosphere Biosphere Programme (IGBP), International Human Dimensions Programme on Global Environmental Change (IHDP), the IPCC, International Group of Funding Agencies for global change research (IGFA), International Energy Agency (IEA) and the Earth System Science Partnership (ESSP)).

At a second special side event at SBSTA 20 (Bonn, June 2004), Parties and representatives of international research programmes exchanged views on research conducted in response to the recommendations of the Third Assessment Report of the IPCC.  Parties were invited to submit their views on how the main issues arising from that side event could be adequately addressed (see FCCC/SBSTA/2004/MISC.14 and FCCC/SBSTA/2005/MISC.5, and FCCC/SBSTA/2005/3 containing a synthesis of those views). 

SBSTA 21

In this regard, SBSTA 21 (Buenos Aires, December 2004) invited the GCOS secretariat, in conjunction with the GCOS sponsoring agencies, to prepare a synthesis report on how actions identified in the implementation plan have been incorporated in the plans and actions of the GCOS sponsoring agencies. A report on this matter (FCCC/SBSTA/2005/MISC.14) was provided by the GCOS to SBSTA 23.

COP 9 and 10

COP 9 (Milan, December 2003) adopted a decision on global observing systems for climate (decision 11/CP.9). Among other important issues, this decision calls for the preparation of an Implementation Plan for the Global Observing System for Climate in Support of the UNFCCC (hereinafter referred to as the GCOS implementation plan) to be coordinated by GCOS in collaboration with the ad hoc Group on Earth Observations (GEO). The decision further invites the sponsoring agencies of the Global Terrestrial Observing System (GTOS) to develop a framework for the preparation of guidance materials, standards and reporting guidelines for terrestrial observing systems for climate.

The GCOS implementation plan was submitted to and endorsed by COP 10 (Buenos Aires, December 2004) in decision 5/CP.10. The COP requested the GCOS secretariat to provide information to the SBSTA as required, at subsequent sessions, on how the actions identified in the implementation plan are being implemented.

SBSTA 18

SBSTA 18 (Bonn, June 2003) considered the state of the global observing systems for climate, on the basis of the second adequacy report  (Second report on the adequacy of the global observing systems for climate in support of the UNFCCC, endorsed by SBSTA 15, prepared by GCOS).