The 60th session of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) subsidiary bodies (SB60) failed to reach an agreement on the technicalities of Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, which governs international carbon trading. However, the African Group of Negotiators on climate change (AGN) offered innovative solutions to break the impasse.
The AGN’s contributions were informed by a regional workshop on “Regulating carbon markets” held in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, which brought together experts and policymakers to discuss the implementation of Article 6. The workshop highlighted the crucial role of carbon markets in incentivizing emission reductions and fostering sustainable practices.
Participants discussed the need for regulatory tools, focusing on cleaner technologies, and operationalizing Article 6. They also shared experiences and initiatives from countries like Ghana, Mozambique, and Senegal, showcasing their commitment to combating climate change through carbon pricing mechanisms and sustainable practices.
The workshop emphasized the importance of integrity, transparency, and innovation in carbon market design. While the SB60 negotiations did not reach an agreement, the AGN’s progressive solutions and the workshop’s outcomes offer hope for a breakthrough in future talks.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
