REDD side-events in Durban

The latest round of the UN climate meetings starts tomorrow in Durban, South Africa. Expectations of any sort of agreement on reducing emissions of greenhouse gas emissions are at an all-time low (which is mirrored by the all-time low carbon price).

Here’s a list of REDD-related side-events. Please let me know via the comments if your favourite side-event is missing. A list of all the official side-events in Durban is available on UNFCCC’s website.

REDD-Monitor is not in Durban, but is looking forward to reporting news and comments from colleagues who are there. Please send an email to with any stories that you think should be covered on REDD-Monitor. Thanks!

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MONDAY, 28 NOVEMBER 2011

‘What must Durban deliver’
Third World Network (TWN)
13:15—14:45, Indwe River

Is the international climate regime evolving or unraveling?

The Drivers of Deforestation Today
Union of Concerned Scientists, Greenpeace International, World Resources Institute, World Wildlife Fund and Environmental Investigations Agency
15:00-16:30, The Bellona Delegation’s “Solutions Room” Office 14, ICC Lower Level

In 2011 and 2012, SBSTA has been tasked with an in­‐depth examination of the drivers of deforestation and their relation to REDD+. In this side event, international NGOs will present recent findings on the drivers of deforestation and the ways that they can be dealt with successfully.

TUESDAY, 29 NOVEMBER 2011

Participatory seminar on the ‘do’s and don’ts’ of supporting forest conservation and restoration initiatives by local communities and indigenous peoples
CEESP Task Force on REDD and Communities, Global Forest Coalition and ICCA Consortium
10:00-14:00, Civil Society Space and the University of Kwazulu Natal, room Shepstone 5

The participatory seminar will provide a space for representatives of indigenous peoples, peasant movements, women’s movements and local communities to voice and share their experiences and views on the most appropriate, equitable and effective ways in which outsiders can support the initiatives of indigenous peoples and local communities to conserve and restore their forests and other ecosystems that play a key role in climate change mitigation and resilience.

REDD in the real world: Experiences of destructive REDD proejcts from Colombia, Brazil, Nigeria and Indonesia
Friends of the Earth International
11:00-13:00, The People’s Space, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Howard College, MTB 167

Enforcement and Anti-corruption Measures Essential to REDD Success
Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA) and Global Witness
13:15-14:45, Hex River

REDD incentive-based mechanisms are designed to reward governments for reducing deforestation and degradation as measured against a baseline. Hear from experts around the world about enforcement, anti-corruption and monitoring tools and mechanisms that must be brought to bear if REDD is to succeed.

The activities and progress of Mexico on Climate change and low carbon development will be presented
Mexico
13:15-14:45, Apies River

Climate Change and Green Growth.

Supporting indigenous territories and community initiatives to conserve and restore forests
Global Forest Coalition
14:00-18:00, The People’s Space, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Howard College, Shepstone 5

Corporate Strategies to Survive and Prosper in Regulated Carbon Markets
International Energy Centre
14:00-16:00, BINGO room

An international panel of experts will provide perspectives and learnings from existing markets as well as expectations for emerging markets. The side event will be interactive with a focus on risk management in regulated markets, impact of domestic, regional and international policy changes and the role that markets play in financing low-carbon solutions.

SAIIA Environmental Sustainability Project Model Climate Youth Summit
South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA)
15:00-16:30, Levubu River
Using principles of Model UN students will represent different stakeholders to create a youth protocol. Initiative has the backing of the SA Dept of International Relations & Cooperation. The program climax will be a handing over of the protocol to the Minister. Supported by US State Dept & Sasol.

Agro-ecology, climate resilience and planning for adaptation
The Gaia Foundation and Development Fund
15:00-16:30, Hex River

Gaia Foundation, Development Fund, African Biodiversity Network and friends show how communities can use agroecology, indigenous knowledge and pastoralism to adapt to and mitigate climate change. These contrast with top-down market-based approaches, but could guide national Adaptation strategies.

Global climate financing: how effective is it at the country level?
Overseas Development Institute (ODI) and Transparency International (TI)
15:00-16:30, Indwe River

Based on research by ODI and TI, with support from the UNDP, this event will draw on country case study material to examine how global climate finance is being integrated into national budgetary processes. Panellists will discuss key challenges in spending, monitoring and policy setting.

Towards REDD+ Readiness in Tanzania: Lessons learnt, Opportunities and Challenges
United Republic of Tanzania
16:45-18:15, Indwe River

Lessons learnt from REDD+ demonstrations & other Climate Change related initiatives synthesis of key issues) – Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (MRV) System – National REDD+ Strategy (Strategy development process)

Agriculture, soils and forests in carbon markets? Impacts on climate and climate justice
ECONEXUS and The Corner House
16:45-18:15, Hex River

Speakers discuss methods promoted for carbon offsets, such as “sustainable intensification”, biochar and tree plantations. Will these address the real issues or bring the finance talked of? How will they affect communities, small farmers, food sovereignty, forests, biodiversity and climate?

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WEDNESDAY, 30 NOVEMBER 2011

A framework to assess the sustainability of different REDD+ design options
Belgium
10:30-12:30, EU Pavilion Room Brussels

The different options of REDD+ (e.g. on reference level and scope) will have an impact on the sustainability of implementation in the field. We will present a framework to analyse the environmental, socio-economic and institutional implications of different scenarios for individual countries.

How is REDD+ unfolding on the ground? An exploration of the social, political and biophysical issues
Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR)
11:30-13:00, Indwe River

This event examines the challenge of attaining effectiveness, efficiency, equity, and co-benefits in REDD+ sub-national projects. Presentations will be on: the status of REDD+ sub-national projects, insights from Africa, the policy and economic context, and the adequacy of MRV systems.

Who is Financing Climate Change? New Figures from the World’s largest Banks
Earthlife Africa Johannesburg, CEE Bankwatch Network and German NGO Forum on Environment and Development
11:30-13:00, Hex River

Banks play a key role in financing energy infrastructure, but up to now few banks have adopted climate criteria for their portfolios. At this side event, NGOs will present the first climate ranking for financial institutions and identify the top ten “climate killers” in the banking world.

Carbon Game: Real-time Carbon Trading Simulation
International Energy Centre
13:00-18:00, Govan Mbeki Building Computer Labs, University of KwaZulu Natal Westville campus

Understanding how carbon permits and trading works is fundamental in determining the risks and opportunities associated with global carbon markets. Participants will gain a thorough understanding of carbon permits (as both an asset and financial product) and also trading dynamics. Participants will be allocated a compliance portfolio of a Taslandian company in CarbonGame, an exciting real-time emissions trading simulation.

Making Progress with REDD+: Applying Lessons Learned to Enhance Success
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
13:15-14:45, Indwe River

Countries worldwide are implementing REDD+ readiness and significant lessons are already emerging. Join us to discuss how these are advancing REDD+ and revealing opportunities to connect with other sectors to meet climate and sustainable development goals while catalyzing a green economy transition.

The experience of Madagascar in adaptation to climate change
Madagascar
13:15-14:45, Apies River
Various adaptation actions and studies were undertaken in several sectors: Agriculture, health, water, forest, risk management and disaster. Sustainable practices are taking place through the actions of different groups. This side event presents framework, initiatives and prospects for Madagascar.

Pioneer experiences on indigenous REDD+ Initiatives: The Surui Forest Carbon Project
Institute for Conservation and Sustainable Development of Amazonas (IDESAM)
15:00-16:30, Indwe River

The event will present the background and development process of the Surui Project, a REDD+ initiative fully led and designed by the Paiter Surui People (Brazil), exploring baseline development, implementation strategy, establishment of Surui Fund and nesting into subnational and national systems.

Balancing priorities, creating synergies? pro-poor action for food security, adaptation, mitigation
Practical Action & African Centre for Technology Studies
15:00-16:30, Levubu River

How can developing countries adapt to climate change and feed their growing populations, on a low carbon development path? We look at how pro-poor technologies can help meet these challenges, and how far Kenya and Bangladesh are considering such an approach in their own national climate strategies.

REDD Realities: what are we learning from the past and readiness process?
Tanzania Natural Resource Forum (TNRF) and International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED)
16:45-18:15, Indwe River

PFM can provide positive lessons to help get REDD+ right, eg. on rights, institutions, income generation and sharing. Over 15 years of lessons from Tanzania and other regions (Africa, Asia, Latin America) will be shared to better understand how REDD+ can be cost effective and pro-poor.

Addressing REDD+ social and environmental safeguards:experiences using REDD+SES and other mechanisms
Ecuador and Conservation International (CI)
18:30-20:00, Blyde River

This event presents how Ecuador, Nepal, Acre (Brazil) and partners including national CSOs, CCBA and CARE are addressing and providing information on REDD+ social and environmental safeguards as well as enhancing multiple benefits, using REDD+ SES with other safeguard mechanisms eg. UN-REDD, FCPF.

Progress towards REDD+ readiness: DRC’s integrated monitoring and evaluation system for REDD+
Democratic Republic of the Congo
18:30-20:00, Indwe River

DRC is building a robust and transparent monitoring and evaluation system for REDD+ activities at the national and subnational level. The event will focus on two key components of this system: a national registry of REDD+ projects and initiatives and a land satellite monitoring system for REDD+.

Addressing the gender dimension of vulnerability: An adaptation framework that works for everyone
CARE International and Women’s Environment and Development Organization (WEDO)
18:30-20:00, Hex River

An adaptation framework that works for everyone must incorporate complexities of vulnerability. Panelists explore the dimensions of vulnerability from a gender angle, issuing recommendations for effective adaptation planning.

REDD+ in Brazil: the participation of Sub-National Government in the implementation of REDD policies
Amazon Environmental Research Institute (IPAM)
20:15-21:45, Amanzimtoti River

The Brazilian Federal and subnational governments have shown global leadership in REDD+ design and implementation. IPAM and state representatives discuss how Brazilian Amazonian states are considering a “nested approach” to the REDD+ within national policies and participatory processes.

Meeting Climate Change Challenges in African Conservation and Livelihoods
African Wildlife Foundation (AWF)
20:15-21:45, Levubu River

AWF and partners will share their cutting edge experiences, across its portfolio of larger landscapes in sub-Saharan Africa, with ecosystem-based adaptation and REDD as a mechanism for addressing combined climate change, biodiversity and socio-economic goals, at community and national levels.

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THURSDAY, 1 DECEMBER 2011

Conference on Ecosocialism: A people’s response to climate change and the COP17 Conference
Democratic Left Front
10:00-18:00, Shepstone 1, People’s Space, Howard College Campus, University of KwaZulu Natal

The objectives of this Ecosocialist Conference are to: Understand the link between the climate crisis and capitalism; Situate South Africa within this; Explore and understand the concept of ecosocialism; Learn from existing experiences and ecosocialism; Explore and think about ecosocialism and alternatives like food sovereignty, climate jobs, solidarity economy etc.

Beyond REDD+ and forest communities in Nigeria
Green Concern for Development (GREENCODE)
10:00, The People’s Space, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Howard College, MTB C1

Building Capacities for REDD+ and Assessing Country Needs
UN-REDD Secretariat, RECOFTC
10:00-12:00, Rio Conventions Pavilion

In the past three years tropical forested countries across the world have taken important institutional, policy, legal and piloting steps to become ‘ready’ for REDD+. Capacity building is a key component of this REDD+ readiness process and is backed by a huge investment of time and money from a large number of organizations, government agencies, communities and individuals. There has been a massive increase in capacity building during this short three year period, which begs the question: Do the organizations providing such services have the competencies to fully meet countries’ REDD+ readiness needs?

Status on REDD+ in Indonesia
Indonesia Ministry of Forestry
14:30-16:30, Indonesia Pavilion (link opens Indonesia Pavilion Programme, pdf file, 175 kB)

1. Current status of REDD+ in Indonesia. 2. Local Government Committment on REDD+ Program. 3. Community Participation on REDD+ : the case of Kapuas District. Indonesia has developed a strategy for REDD Readiness Phase 2009-2012 and based on survey in 2010, currently there are 23 Demonstration Activities have been developed in Indonesia. Among others, the REDD+ readiness projects is UN-REDD Indonesia, in which Central Sulawesi has been selected as pilot province, and the Kalimantan Forest and Climate Partnership (KFCP) as a bilateral cooperation between government of Indonesia and Australia. Several achievements have been accomplished, the lessons learned will be shared from those REDD+ pilot areas.

Weathering the Climate Crisis: The Way of Ecological Agriculture
Pesticide Action Network Asia BHD
15:00-16:30, Apies River

Providing a platform for small-scale farmers and civil society organisations to present alternative and genuine solutions to climate change, and increasing awareness among governments on the role of ecological agriculture in building climate change resilient communities.

NAMAs – the swiss army knife of climate policy?
ClimateNet and University of New South Wales
15:00-16:30, Levubu River

On the eve of the post 2012 period the future role of NAMAs for climate policy remains uncertain. International experts share their views and practitioners report experiences from the ground in order to identify key success factors and main barriers.

Lessons for REDD+ Safeguards from the CBD Experiences
Secretariat of the CBD (SCBD), Natural Justice (NJ), Indigenous Peoples of Africa Coordinating Committee (IPACC), Indigenous Peoples Climate Change Assessment (IPCCA) and Global Forest Coalition
17:30-19:30, COP17 Conference Venue, Rio Pavilion

The event will include a presentation on African Indigenous peoples perspectives on REDD, an overview of safeguard experiences developed within the Convention on Biodiversity (CBD) and their lessons for REDD, a presentation on the dangers of REDD for Indigenous Peoples and the limitations of the existing safeguards and a presentation on Biocultural Protocols as REDD safeguard tools.

The Papua New Guinea National Forest Monitoring System: a way forward to REDD+ Phase II
Papua New Guinea
18:30-20:00, Apies River

The Government of PNG presents its new Forest Monitoring System that supports the implmentation of national policies and measures related to REDD+ activities.To ensure full stakeholder participation a free WEB-GIS interface has been developed with support from the UN-REDD Programme and Australia.

Cracking the code: Private sector solutions to facilitate effective global action on carbon emission
Climate Markets and Investors Association (CMIA)
18:30-20:00, Orange River

As negotiations stall, we examine how we can bring about action on and financing for the drastic reduction in emissions needed to meet our 2 degree target. This event will showcase various private sector solutions that may just break the negotiating impasse!

FIDES Recommendations for the design and implementation of new market mechanisms in Latinamerica
Asociación Española de la Industria Eléctrica (UNESA)
20:15-21:45, Orange River

The WG climate change of the Iberoamerican Forum for Sustainable Energy (FIDES) presents recommendations for design and implementation of new market mechanisms based in the assessment of the performance of energy projects in the CDM and the capacity of the region to put in practice new designs.

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FRIDAY, 2 DECEMBER 2011

Agriculture and Soils in Carbon Markets – Implications for Food and Land
Biofuelwatch, EcoNexus, Gaia Foundation, African Biodiversity Network, La Via Campesina, IATP, Global Forest Coalition, Practical Action and Action Aid
10:00-13:00, Civil society space, University of Kwazulu Natal, room Shepstone 17

Momentum is building around expanding carbon markets to include soil and agriculture practices, within UN as well as in various national level policies. What will the consequences of agriculture and soil carbon marketing be for peasant farmers, for the future of food sovereignty, and for climate? We will take a critical look at what is being proposed, including some of the specific practices that could gain favor in markets (biochar, no-till, etc), and review both scientific and social implications. Finally, we will strategize and seek input especially from African participants concerning how to best support a just and viable agricultural transition.

Grievance Mechanisms: Options to Consider and Address Stakeholder Concerns in the Climate Framework
Earthjustice and ClientEarth
11:30-13:00, Apies River

To protect the rights of those most vulnerable to climate change, it is essential to establish a process that will address concerns of affected peoples and communities. Panelists will discuss options for grievance mechanisms in existing processes, including response measures, finance, REDD and CDM.

Forests and climate: securing community livelihoods and protecting the environment
Green Belt Movement (GBM) and The Woods Hole Research Center (WHRC)
11:30-13:00, Amanzimtoti River

GBM and WRHC will host a panel to discuss the impact of climate initiatives on rights and responsibilities including a CDM project for future REDD+ forestry projects. We will explore how to ensure the right mix of incentives for household forest users and develop participatory forest monitoring.

G20 Report on Mobilizing Sources of Climate Finance
International Monetary Fund
Albert Luthuli Hall, Durban City Hall, Dr Pixley Kaseme Street

Presentations: Fiscal Instruments for Climate Finance – International Monetary Fund. Private Sources of Finance – World Bank and International Finance Corporation. Market-Based Instruments for International Maritime Emissions – International Maritime Organization. Market-Based Instruments for International Aviation Emissions – International Civil Aviation Organization. US Perspective on Climate Finance – US Treasury.

Australia’s Carbon Pricing Mechanism and Clean Energy Future Plan
Australia
13:15-14:45, Apies River

The Australian Government released its comprehensive Clean Energy Future plan in July 2011. It will place a price on carbon emissions in Australia for the first time. The Carbon Pricing Mechanism will link to global carbon markets from 2015.

Agricultural Solutions to Support Food Security, Sustainability, and Animal Welfare
Humane Society International (HSI) and Compassion in World Farming (CIWF)
15:00-16:30, Hex River

While agriculture significantly affects and is affected by climate change, it should also be a part of the solution. Drawing on country-specific examples in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, experts will discuss mitigation and adaptation policies that support food security and other social goals.

Adapting NRM in Africa: lessons learnt, ways forward and the ‘sustainable land management programme’
German Development Institute (DIE – Bonn) and University of Bayreuth
16:45-18:15, Levubu River

The side-event discusses options for adapting NRM in Africa using different case studies (Kenya, South Africa, D. R. Congo) in adaptation and mitigation (agriculture, water, REDD+). The German funded research programme ‘sustainable land management’ and its African regional projects are introduced.

Effective Trading Systems to Facilitate Linking and Complement Multilateral Actions
Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) and Climate Action Reserve
18:30-20:00, Blyde River

A discussion of national and state government trading scheme designs and their potential to be linked.

Developing REDD+ initiatives and adaptation in Central Africa: Lessons learns and perspectives
COMIFAC Executive Secretariat
18:30-20:00, Africa Pavilion

The COMIFAC Executive Secretariat is pleased to announce a side event during the 17th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention for Climate Change (UNFCCC) at Africa Pavilion, to be organized in collaboration with the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS).

Synergies and tradeoffs between mitigation and adaptation: the case of forests
Centro Agronómico Tropical de Investigación y Enseñanza (CATIE)
20:15-21:45, Apies River

Forests are managed for mitigation (REDD+) and adaptive capacity of forest dependent communities. This event will draw out synergies and tradeoffs of achieving these goals, focusing on experiences of national policy and local implementation in Africa, Asia and Latin America.

Multi-stakeholder Collaboration to Reinforce Adaptation Opportunities for African Pastoral Peoples
Indigenous People of Africa Coordinating Committee (IPACC)
20:15-21:45, Levubu River

In support of the Cancun Adaptation Framework, the Chadian Ministry of Water and IPACC convene a multi-stakeholder dialogue on climatic events, local knowledge and African pastoral peoples. How can meteorologists, communities and policy-makers jointly reinforce adaptation policy and practice?

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SATURDAY, 3 DECEMBER 2011

Lessons Learned for REDD+ from PES and Conservation Incentive Programs
Costa Rica, Mexico and Ecuador and the World Bank
12:30-15:30, Pool Deck of the Blue Waters Hotel, 175, Snell Parade, North Beach, Durban

There will be a presentation and discussion of PES lessons learned starting at 12:30 according to the agenda that has been attached with this invitation.

Building Sustainable Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) in Asia for Climate Change
Korea Green Foundation (KGF)
20:15-21:45, Hex River

The Climate Change Center of KGF, the Korea International Cooperation Agency & Korea University with joint researches will suggest effective roles of government, industry, & civil society in PPP. The event aims to seek measures for climate-vulnerable regions in Asia and reinforce the Asian network.

Modifying Afforestation Practices in Adaptation to Climate Change
Keren Kayemet LeIsrael/The Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF)
20:15-21:45, Blyde River

KKL-JNF has rich experience in developing sustainable afforestation practices in semi-arid regions. By using advanced techniques for watershed management, soil conservation, & biological control; and by sharing our knowledge with others, we are able to turn ecological challenges into opportunities.

Best practices from forest carbon projects in Malaysia and Uganda
FACE Foundation (FACE)
20:15-21:45, Orange River

From the early 90’s forest carbon projects have been developed in Malaysia and Uganda. These projects have proven their value ever since and have acquired VCS registration in 2011. The projects are presented and linked to national strategies related to forest carbon projects.

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SUNDAY, 4 DECEMBER 2011

Forest Day 5
Center for International Forestry Research, CIFOR
From 08:00, Olive Convention Centre

Forest Day, now in its fifth year and always occurring on the sidelines of the UNFCCC COP, has become one of the most influential annual global events on forests. This year, it will seek to inform the UNFCCC global agenda and forest stakeholders on ways to implement an international REDD+ funding mechanism that produces social and environmental benefits, above and beyond avoided emissions. The event will have a particular African focus, looking at the tropical forests of the Congo Basin and elsewhere, and the continent’s wide expanses of dry forest areas. CIFOR convenes Forest Day on behalf of the Collaborative Partnership on Forests. [R-M: Register here.]

Fake Forest Day
Timberwatch Coalition, Global Forest Coalition, BiofuelWatch, Econexus, World Rainforest Movement, GeaSphere, Global Justice Ecology Project, SDCEA, Indigenous Environmental Network and The Corner House.
10:00-18:00, Civil Society Space at the University of Kwazulu Natal, T B David Building (L6)

The day will address a large number of environmental, social and cultural impacts of monoculture tree plantations, including hidden/externalised costs; and national governance and global policy issues (REDD etc). Each session will end with a panel to answer questions from the audience and raise other relevant points.

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MONDAY, 5 DECEMBER 2011

Investing in REDD+ in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Democratic Republic of Congo
09:30-12:00, Pavillion Hotel, 15 K E Masinga Road

State of affairs, REDD+ in DRC: context and achievements to date. Entering the investment phase: National REDD+ fund, early action programs and the REDD+ et Alignment strategy, the Forest Investment Program, early ideas for an integrated program at District scale in Mai Ndombe for submission to the FCPF carbon fund.

Voluntary certification and commodity roundtables: combating the root causes of tropical deforestation and supporting subnational REDD+
National Wildlife Federation and Rainforest Alliance
11:00-12:30, ICC, Lower Level, Bellona Room

For tropical governments to achieve their reduced deforestation and climate change mitigation goals, REDD+ must address ubiquitous deforestation drivers. Credible, voluntary certification and commodity roundtable standards exist, and are being increasingly adopted. In this event, which brings together leading advocates, practitioners, researchers and policymakers, panelists will explore: The potential scale of impact widespread adoption of certification and commodity roundtables’ standards can have on national and subnational deforestation and climate mitigation goals; Opportunities for these standards to complement REDD+ and other related programs; Barriers to increased adoption of these standards; and Next steps to better reconcile these standards with REDD+ and national agricultural development and food security priorities.

Assessment of biodiversity, forest management, REDD+ links; the need for common data standards
Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) and International Union of Forest Research Organizations (IUFRO)
11:30-13:00, Indwe River

The new scientific assessment of the relationship between biodiversity, forests and REDD+, under the framework of Global Forest Expert Panels (GFEP); and the importance of freely-accessible biodiversity data, published to globally-agreed standards, to support biodiversity monitoring within REDD+.

DR Congo/Conservation International REDD pilot project: a different kind of Disney production
World Rainforest Movement
12:00-14:00, Greenpeace Solar Tent, North Beach

WRM will present a new publication, based on a case study about a REDD+ pilot project promoted by Conservation International together with the Walt Disney Company in the East of DRC, province of North-Kivu. WRM spoke to local communities and others involved in the region in this project, in order to contribute to the understanding of what is happening in practice around the implementation of a REDD+ project. The report argues once again for the need to think beyond REDD, focusing on guaranteeing the rights of forest and forest-dependent people in the first place as an essential means for forest conservation. And of course, what is needed most urgently is not to permit any carbon trading through REDD+ and similar mechanisms. This only delays a structural and radical reduction of carbon emission levels by industrialized countries, the only way to reduce the climate crisis and to guarantee a future for tropical forests, also in the DRC.

Gender and REDD+ in the Asia Pacific: Supporting Champions for Women’s Leadership/ Gender Equality
Regional Community Forestry Training Center for Asia and the Pacific (RECOFTC)
15:00-16:30, Indwe River

A Gender and REDD+ Team has formed in Asia/Pacific region to champion women’s leadership and gender equality to address the neglect of gender issues within REDD+. Panelists will discuss ways in which REDD+ projects can actively enhance the rights and position of rural women in the region.

How to achieve a global transformation towards a climate-friendly, sustainable future?
International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA) and German Advisory Council on Global Change (WBGU)
16:45-18:15, Hex River

IIASA and WBGU present policy options and strategies to cut emissions and achieve a transformation of energy systems and sustainable landuse management, with co-benefits for human development goals. The new Global Energy Assessment and WBGU’s A Social Contract for Sustainability are also profiled.

Role and contribution of forest certification towards a low-carbon forestry, A/R and REDD+ projects
Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and CarbonFix e.V.
16:45-18:15, Indwe River

FSC, RA, SNV, CarbonFix and IMAFLORA present how FSC certification contributes towards forest carbon stewardship, provides relevant safeguards and co-benefits for A/R and REDD+ projects and introduce the FSC Strategy for climate change engagement.

Green Actions in China
China Association for Science and Technology (CAST), Greenriver and Shan Shui Conservation Center (Shan Shui)
16:45-18:15, Levubu River

In the context of global climate change risks, the whole world is suffering great loss due to large-scale disasters associated with global climate changes. In this side event, a new path of development incorporating with disaster risk mitigation and reduction is discussed based on China’s experience.

Showcasing low-carbon transitions in Cartagena Dialogue countries
Maldives
20:15-21:45, Hex River

Cartagena Dialogue countries share high ambition on mitigation, applied domestically as well as internationally. Here several nations will showcase their plans for low-carbon transitions, including strategies for becoming carbon neutral.

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TUESDAY, 6 DECEMBER 2011

Ready for What? REDD Fairy Tales, Real Forest Conservation and a Muddled Moose
Global Forest Coalition (GFC), Center for Environment and Sustainable Development Studies and Application (CENESTA), Global Justice Ecology Project, Inc. (GJEP) and Natural Justice
11:30-13:00, Levubu River

The event will feature the presentation of a report on appropriate incentives for real forest conservation and restoration by Indigenous peoples and local communities. It will also feature the handing over of the Muddled Moose Award for the most preposterous REDD fairy tale.

Southern Voices On Climate Policy Choices
Climate Action Network International (CAN International)
11:30-13:00, Hex River

Many southern climate policy networks are assessing climate policies and programs in developing countries and engaging in advocacy. This event profiles cases and lessons from a wide variety of climate networks in the South and gives recommendations for climate policies to benefit the most vulnerable.

Indonesia: Putting Commitment into Action
Indonesia
11:30-13:00, Indwe River

Indonesia has voluntarily commited to reduce GHGs emission by 26% and up to 41% with international support by 2020. A National Action Plan is prepared to be implemented national wide. This is expected to create momentum for strong investment in clean technologies and setting course for low C economy

“Evaluative evidence on the overlooked opportunities of energy efficiency”
Global Environment Facility (GEF)
13:15-14:45, Indwe River

This event presents evaluative findings from evaluation units of International Financial Institutions (IFIs) and the GEF on reducing GHG emissions through support to energy efficiency. Policy implications of evaluative lessons will be discussed with Thomas C. Heller of the Policy Climate Initiative.

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WEDNESDAY, 7 DECEMBER 2011

REDD+ without borders: Opportunities in the Southern African Development Community (SADC)
Southern African Development Community (SADC)
11:30-13:00, Apies River

The case for a regional REDD+ approach in the Southern African Development Community region with a focus on methodologies and institutional framework.

Joint Declaration of Intent Between Central African Countries and Donor Partner Countries to Advance REDD+ in the Congo Basin
Meridian Institute
11:30–13:00, Rainforest Room, Africa Pavilion, ICC Complex

Meridian Institute invites you to attend an event to announce the release of a Joint Declaration of Intent between Central African Countries and Donor Partner Countries.

REDD Readiness- Ready for What?
International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO)
15:00-16:30, Apies River

This event reviews the progress of selected countries in getting ready for REDD+ implementation, based on ITTO and JICA projects. It also presents a study on the role of SFM in REDD+, and the outcomes of the multi-stakeholder discussions under TFD/IUCN REDD Readiness Dialogues.

Food, Energy and Water for All: Lessons from WWF’s work in Africa
WWF
15:00-16:30, Levubu River

WWF celebrates 50 years of work on the African Continent. Climate Change has immense impacts on people and ecosystems. We will highlight the key lessons from our work in 3 regions in Africa and highlight through case studies how we can build Food, Energy and Water security for all in Africa

Advancing Public-Private Partnerships for REDD+ and Green Growth
Avoided Deforestation Partners
15:00-18:00, The Hotel Southern Sun Elangeni, 63 Snell Parade, Durban

Avoided Deforestation Partners and co-host Dr. Jane Goodall are pleased to invite you
to an afternoon of dialogue on protecting people, forests, water and climate with His Excellency Ban Ki-moon, Secretary-General of the United Nations; United States President Barack Obama (Special Video Message). Honored Speakers: Dr. Jane Goodall, DBE – founder, Jane Goodall Institute and UN Messenger of Peace (host); Hon. Helen Clark – Administrator, UNDP, and former Prime Minister of New Zealand; Hon. Mary Robinson – President of Mary Robinson Foundation – Climate Justice and former President of Ireland; Hon. Hillary Rodham Clinton – United States, Secretary of State (special video message); Hon. William Clinton – Former President of the United States (special video message); Achim Steiner – UNEP Executive Director, UN Under-Secretary-General; Andrew Steer – World Bank, Special Envoy for Climate Change; Wanjira Maathai – The Green Belt Movement, (daughter of the late Wangari Maathai). Government Representatives: Hon. José Endundo Bononge – DRC, Minister of Environment; Hon. Tina Joemat-Pettersson – South Africa, Minister of Agriculture; Hon. Kjetil Lund – Norway, Ministry of Finance and Co-Chair, Green Climate Fund; Hon. Kuntoro Mangkusubroto – Indonesia, Head of the President’s Unit on REDD; Hon. Toga Gayewea McIntosh – Liberia, Minister of Foreign Affairs; Hon. Jonathan Pershing – United States, Deputy Special Envoy for Climate Change; Hon. Norbert Röttgen – Germany, Minister for Environment; Hon. Eric Solheim – Norway, Minister of the Environment. Conservation and Business Leaders: Jason Clay – World Wildlife Fund-US, Senior Vice President; Larry Schweiger – National Wildlife Federation, President and CEO; Peter Seligmann – Conservation International, CEO and Chairman; Sean de Cleene – Yara International, Vice President Global Business Initiatives; Puvan Selvanathan – Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil, Vice President, Executive Board. This event is dedicated to the life and work of our dear friend 2004 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Wangari Maathai.

Rural women, agriculture & natural resource rights: Real impact & right response to climate change
ActionAid International and OXFAM International (OI)
20:15-21:45, Hex River

ActionAid and Oxfam will bring together women smallholder farmers, champions and agricultural experts to discuss constraints faced globally and in Africa’s rural communities particularly their access to natural resources. Opportunities and risks of agricultural mitigation will also be explored.

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THURSDAY, 8 DECEMBER 2011

Jurisdictional and Nested REDD Goes Global
Verified Carbon Standard (VCS)
10:15-11:30, Standard Bank Auditorium (IETA Pavilion)

Around the world, REDD nations and states are building REDD readiness capacity and also jurisdiction-wide REDD accounting frameworks to credit on-the-ground activities with jurisdictional-level policies and programs. Voluntary markets are actively supporting these efforts. In 2012, the Verified Carbon Standard aims to launch the first operational platform for accounting and crediting jurisdiction-wide, nested REDD activities. This work could serve as a key reference point for multiple sub-national or national REDD accounting frameworks, which have advantages for setting reference levels, addressing leakage, ensuring reductions ‘add up’ at state, provincial and national levels, and for channeling private sector investment.

Leading by example – Swedish leadership in global climate change policy
University of Gothenburg (GU) and Forum for Reforms and Entrepreneurship* (FORES)
16:45-18:15, Apies River

Drawing on two of Sweden’s leading research programmes, Environment for Development (EfD) and FORES, this event discusses how smaller industrialized countries can lead by example. How can climate change action be leveraged internationally? Can fairness, growth and mitigation be combined?

Legal Preparedness for Climate Compatible Development: Securing REDD+
International Development Law Organization (IDLO) and Centre for International Sustainable Development Law (CISDL)
18:30-20:00, Blyde River

Leading developing country experts, along with IDLO, CISDL, FAO and others involved in the UN-REDD Programme, will discuss legal preparedness for climate compatible development, focusing on challenges and innovations in implementation of REDD+ and other climate finance.

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FRIDAY, 9 DECEMBER 2011

Making REDD happen on the ground: reducing deforestation at jurisdictional scale in Brazil
Center of Life Institute (ICV)
11:30-13:00, Indwe River

As UNFCCC definitions for REDD+ are taking shape, on the ground initiatives are piloting new approaches to reduce deforestation at jurisdictional scale. Speakers from Brazilian Amazon civil society and governments will share promissory results and debate on the main challenges to make REDD happen.

Safeguards in REDD and the Green Climate Fund: How to achieve rights-based forest management?
Rainforest Foundation Norway (RFN) and Forest Peoples’ Programme (FPP)
13:15-14:45, Indwe River

Rainforest Foundation Norway and its partners present new evidence on how rights-based management contribute to reducing deforestation in developing countries. Implications for the negotiations on safeguards in REDD and the Green Climate Fund is discussed by government and NGO representatives.