Papua New Guinea Launches Second Forest Reference Level (April 17th, 2024)
Press Release
April 17th, 2024
Papua New Guinea Launches Second Forest Reference Level, Pledging Towards Climate Transparency and Forest Conservation
Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea – 17 April 2023– Papua New Guinea (PNG) takes a significant step forward in environmental transparency and sustainable forestry with the launch of its Second Forest Reference Level (FRL2.pdf). This milestone shows PNG’s commitment to fulfilling its obligations under the Paris Agreement and marks a pivotal moment in the nation’s journey towards climate action and forest conservation. (Workshop Adgenda & Presentation Link )
At the helm of this initiative is the Climate Change and Development Authority (CCDA), mandated to lead PNG’s efforts in adhering to the Paris Agreement. Acting Managing Director of CCDA, Debra Sungi, reiterated the nation’s dedication, stating, “PNG’s launch of the Second Forest Reference Level symbolises our unwavering commitment to combatting climate change and preserving our natural heritage. Through transparent reporting and accountability, we aim to set a global example in environmental stewardship.”
The Second Forest Reference Level is a testament to PNG’s resolve in sustainable forestry management, further emphasised by William Lakain, Acting General Manager, MRV & National Communication Division, CCDA. Lakain asserted, “Forests play a crucial role in carbon sequestration and biodiversity conservation. PNG’s dedication to REDD+ underlines our determination to protect our forests and mitigate deforestation and forest degradation.”
PNG’s efforts are bolstered by strategic partnerships, including support from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). Head of FAO Office in PNG, Bir Mandal, expressed FAO’s commitment, stating, “FAO is honoured to assist Papua New Guinea in enhancing transparency and sustainability in the forestry sector. Through collaborative endeavours like the CBIT initiatives, we can empower nations to address climate change challenges effectively.”
Additionally, PNG receives support from the European Union through the European Union-funded Forestry-Climate Change-Biodiversity (EU-FCCB) Programme. His Excellency Mr. Jacques Fradin, Ambassador of the European Union to Papua New Guinea, commended PNG’s dedication, highlighting the importance of collaboration in addressing climate change and preserving biodiversity.
As PNG charts its course towards climate transparency and forest conservation, the nation stands as a beacon of resilience and sustainability. Through global collaboration and steadfast determination, PNG paves the way for a greener and more sustainable future for all.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Samson Kupale
Communications Officer, CCDA
Phone: +675 341 4283
Email: samson.kupale@ccda.gov.pg
About CCDA:
The Climate Change and Development Authority (CCDA) is the government agency responsible for coordinating PNG’s efforts to address climate change and implement its international obligations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement.
About FAO:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger and improve nutrition and food security.
About the European Union:
The European Union is a supranational political and economic union of 27 European countries. The EU is the largest development cooperation donor in the world, providing funding in many different fields and through depending on the needs and objectives of partner countries.