UNEP and DNV GL announce climate change partnership

Climate change mitigation

The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and DNV GL have announced a new strategic partnership, designed to assist the Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN), hosted by UNEP, to improve access to climate change mitigation and adaptation technologies in developing countries. The Norwegian government will support the CTCN with NOK 60 million in the period 2013-2015.

The announcement was made during a meeting between UNEP Executive Director Achim Steiner and the Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Børge Brende together with the CTCN Director, Jukka Uosukainen, and DNV GL Chief Sustainability Officer, Bjørn K. Haugland.

New technologies

“Replacing current technologies with cleaner, low-carbon alternatives is a vital part of tackling the causes and effects of climate change. The strategic partnership between CTCN and DNV GL will play a vital role in accelerating the use of new technologies in improving the lives and livelihoods of millions of people in developing countries who are dealing with the impacts of climate change on a daily basis," explained Achim Steiner.

Through the partnership, DNV GL will support CTCN operations by using its experience in technology transfer, knowledge management and capacity building. DNV GL will also facilitate the engagement of the private sector in the Centre’s Network in order to stimulate technology cooperation among developed and developing countries. The Network will create a space for exchange and technical collaboration with developing countries on thematic areas such as agriculture, energy, forestry, industry, and water.

Low-carbon future

DNV GL Group President and CEO, Henrik O. Madsen, commented: “We are pleased to support the CTCN through our technical capabilities and global networks. We support its vision to lead the world towards a low-carbon and climate resilient future. Indeed, we have decided to invest our time and resources in this initiative as it is closely linked to our own vision of creating a safe and sustainable future through safer, greener and smarter growth. We will focus our efforts on the CTCN’s call for a confluence of technology, knowledge management, and stakeholder involvement skills. We believe a close collaboration with the private sector will be essential for the success of the technology mechanism.”

Network of experts

Since its launch in 2013, 93 countries have established national CTCN focal points (known as National Designated Entities) that collaborate with country stakeholders to develop and relay requests to the Climate Technology Centre’s network of experts from academia, the private sector, and public and research institutions. Representatives from 74 countries have been trained by the CTCN through regional trainings across Africa, Asia and Latin America.

Adapted from press release by Katie Woodward

Read the article online at: https://www.hydrocarbonengineering.com/gas-processing/15082014/unep-and-dnv-gl-in-climate-change-collaboration-1276/