Inception Workshop for the preparation of PNG’s First Biennial Transparency Report & REDD+ Technical Annex (April 17th, 2024)
Press Release
April 17th, 2024
Papua New Guinea Sets Sail Towards Climate Transparency and Forest Conservation
Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea – In a landmark move towards environmental transparency and sustainable forestry, Papua New Guinea (PNG) announces its stride towards fulfilling its commitments under the Paris Agreement. As the world grapples with the urgent need for climate action, PNG is taking bold steps to ensure a greener future for generations to come. (Workshop Adgenda & Presentation Link | BTR1 Inception Workshop Report)
At the forefront of this endeavor is the Climate Change and Development Authority (CCDA), mandated by law to spearhead PNG’s adherence to the Paris Agreement. With unwavering dedication, CCDA is gearing up to submit PNG’s First Biennial Transparency Report (BTR) by the end of 2024, showcasing the nation’s progress in combating climate change.
The BTR will encapsulate comprehensive data ranging from greenhouse gas emissions to climate change impacts and adaptation strategies. Furthermore, PNG’s steadfast dedication to forest conservation will be highlighted through the inclusion of the REDD+ Technical Annex, shedding light on the nation’s efforts in sustainable forestry management.
Commenting on this pivotal moment, Acting Managing Director of CCDA, Debra Sungi, emphasized, “Our commitment to the Paris Agreement underscores PNG’s unwavering dedication to mitigating climate change impacts and preserving our invaluable natural resources. Through rigorous reporting and accountability measures, we aim to set a global standard for environmental stewardship.”
Speaking on the significance of forest conservation, William Lakain, Acting General Manager, MRV & National Communication Division, CCDA, stated, “Forests are our lifeline, serving as carbon sinks and biodiversity hotspots. PNG’s commitment to REDD+ underscores our resolve to safeguard our forests and combat deforestation and forest degradation.”
In a synergistic effort, PNG is receiving technical support from esteemed partners. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), under the Global Environment Facility (GEF)’s Capacity-Building Initiative for Transparency (CBIT) 2 project, is lending crucial technical expertise. FAO, Head of PNG Office, Bir Mandal, remarked, “FAO is proud to support Papua New Guinea in its efforts to enhance transparency and sustainability in the forestry sector. Through collaborative initiatives like the CBIT 2 project, we can empower nations to effectively address climate change challenges.”
Additionally, PNG is also receiving logistical and other support from the European Union through the European Union-funded Forestry-Climate Change-Biodiversity (EU-FCCB) Programme, and in particular through the national component of this EU-FCCB Programme managed by Expertise France. On this occasion, His Excellency Mr Jacques Fradin, Ambassador of the European Union to Papua New Guinea, expressed, “the European Union commends Papua New Guinea’s steadfast dedication to meeting its commitments to combat climate change and preserving its rich biodiversity. Through collaboration and shared commitment, we can forge a sustainable path towards a greener future for all.”
As PNG prepares to launch its Second National REDD+ Forest Reference Level, the nation stands poised to set a precedent in climate transparency and forest conservation. With unwavering determination and global collaboration, PNG charts a course towards a resilient and sustainable future.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Samson Kupale
Communications Officer, CCDA
Phone: +675 341 4283
Email: japheth.gai@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.