Background paper

17
th
Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework
Convention on Climate Change
Durban, South Africa
28 November - 9 December 2011





















Prepared by: Gabriela Fischerova - Climate Change Policy Advisor UNDP BRC
Bratislava, Slovakia, November 2011
Introduction

This document aims to provide short overview of the key issues to be discussed and decided in
Durban for those who do not follow the negotiations on daily basis or need only ad hoc
orientation in the up-coming event. The more detailed information on agenda items of specific
events are provided in a separate annex.
The views expressed in this document are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the
views of, and should not be attributed to, the UNDP.

General Information
The 17 Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change will th
bring together representatives of the world's governments, international organizations and civil
society. The discussions will seek to advance, in a balanced manner, the implementation of the
Convention and the Kyoto Protocol, as well as the Bali Action Plan, agreed at COP 13 in 2007,
and the Cancun Agreements, reached at COP 16 last December.
The Durban Conference will comprise:
The 17
th
Conference of the Parties (COP 17)
The 7
th
Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto
Protocol (CMP 7)
The 35
th
session of the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI 35)
The 35
th
session of the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and Technological Advice
(SBSTA 35)
The fourth part of the 16
th
session of Ad Hoc Working Group on Further Commitments
for Annex I Parties under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG-KP 16-4)
The fourth part of the 14
th
session of Ad Hoc Working Group on Long-term
Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG-LCA 14-4)
Joint SBs workshop on the Nairobi work programme will be organized on Wednesday 30
November from 10:00 to 13:00.
In conjunction with these formal sessions, several pre-sessional meetings will take place in
Durban:
65
th
meeting of the Clean Development Mechanism Executive Board (21 to 25
November)
Least developed countries Preparatory Meetings (22 to 23 November)
Small island developing States Preparatory Meetings (24 to 25 November)
27
th
meeting of the Joint Implementation Supervisory Committee (24 to 25 November)
African Group Preparatory Meetings (24 to 25 November)
G-77 & China Preparatory Meetings (26 to 27 November)

The Conference will be hosted by the Government of South Africa and will take place at the
International Convention Centre (ICC) & Durban Exhibition Centre (DEC) from 28 November
to 9 December 2011.

Key Issues for Durban
Among 84 formal agenda items altogether there are expected few key outcomes from Durban
which are critical for further continuation of meaningful international regime for combating
climate change. These are:
2
nd
Commitment period under the Kyoto protocol adopted
Outline/roadmap for the new global agreement adopted
Standing Committee approved and Green Climate Fund rules in place
Adaptation Committee established
Climate Technology Centre and Network agreed
Capacity building framework agreed
The items above are interlinked and conditioned so that the progress or lack of progress in one
item could seriously affect the discussions on other one.
In the following text, each of these items is shortly explained and the current situation in
negotiations described.

2
nd
Commitment period under the Kyoto Protocol (2
nd
CP)
Adoption of the second commitment period is embedded in the article 3, paragraph 9 of the
Kyoto protocol
1
. While for the first commitment period, 38 developed county parties of the KP
were committed to reduce or limit their emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs) during the period
of 2008 - 2012 (without the US who did not ratify the KP), now already three other parties have
declared that they do not intend to commit themselves to any 2
nd
CP under the KP: Canada,
Japan, and Russia. This means that any potential 2
nd
CP would include parties responsible for less
than 40% of developed countries emissions in 2008 and less than 25% of the global emissions.
Australia, New Zealand and others consider the 2
nd
CP as transitional to a global treaty.
Therefore, in order to reach the ultimate objective of the UNFCCC (to achieve . stabilization of
greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that would prevent dangerous
anthropogenic interference with the climate system) more action is needed to curb the emissions
from all major economies.
Many developing countries made it clear in their statements that without 2
nd
CP they are
notwilling to discuss any possible outcome on global regime. The simple adoption of the 2
nd
CP
would not be sufficient with current pledges of reduction from Annex B countries. These are now
far below what is needed with respect to keep the temperature rise by the end of 2100 below 2C.
Translated to the concentrations and percentages it means that the concentration of GHGs in the
atmosphere should not exceed 450 ppm (parts per million) and developed countries should
reduce their emissions by 25% to 40% by 2020.
2

In Durban, parties should agree whether there will be any second commitment period and if yes
what are the commitments and the conditions. The technical discussions on some specific aspects
of the 2
nd
CP already reached the impasse which cannot be removed without taking political
decision. As this can be taken only by ministers it might be expected that the 2
nd
CP will be in the
centre of interest of high level segment.

1 3.9. Commitments for subsequent periods for Parties included in Annex I shall be established in amendments to
Annex B to this Protocol, which shall be adopted in accordance with the provisions of Article 21, paragraph 7. The
Conference of the Parties serving as the meeting of the Parties to this Protocol shall initiate the consideration of such
commitments at least seven years before the end of the first commitment period referred to in paragraph 1 above.

2 Eo c toti co to t oo c tqot tq c |i u co oqouo | c 1.5X ov o 350 t t
Outline/roadmap for the new global agreement
The differences in the status of countries (among developed countries as well as among
developing countries) both in economic and legal terms make it very difficult to negotiate
comparable conditions and commitments under current international agreementsUNFCCC and
the KP. For example, the US not being the party to the Kyoto Protocol, and Canada, Japan, and
Russia (and maybe some other developed countries) not willing to be a part of the 2
nd
CP, the rest
of the developed countries have to negotiate under the Convention similar level of effort for all
developed countries. Since the beginning of the work of the ad hoc groups, there is a strong
emphasis on keeping these two tracks separated and even though there are many common issues,
formally they are two different tracks.
The complicated negotiation settings and the weak coverage of the emissions in the potential 2
nd
commitment period have led to the proposal by some parties to start negotiations on a new global
agreement to be completed sometime within the next four year. This is rather new idea and will
not lead to any specific legal outcome, but the outline or roadmap for the process for next few
years might be considered as sufficient commitment to follow the international process thatat
the endwill head for the sensible and sustainable global deal. As the theme is highly political,
it needs to be decided by high level segment, very likely in parallel with the 2
nd
CP.

Standing Committee and Green Climate Fund
The Cancun Agreements (para 112) also established a Standing Committee to assist the COP in
exercising its functions with respect to the operationalisation of the financial mechanism of the
Convention. While there is a common view on the need for the standing Committee, there are
still some issues of divergence:
Status: should the SC be a permanent subsidiary body or not, scope of work and
responsibilities
Composition of SC: how many members16 or 24, from which constituencies,
advisory members
How to work: frequency of the meetings, mode of work: sub-committees, or
experts from NWP, linkages to other work
Activities of the SC for the first year: procedural and substantive, for adoption by
COP18
The Cancun Agreements also called for scaled-up, new and additional, predictable and adequate
funding to be provided to developing countries and asked the developed countries to commit to
joint goal of mobilizing jointly 100 billion USD per year by 2020. Significant share of these new
funds should flow through the Green Climate Fund (GCF). The Transitional Committee (TC) for
the design of the Green Climate Fund was established during the first half of the year 2011. The
TC has met four times and prepared and forwarded a governing instrument for the GCF to
COP17 for consideration and adoption. The text was forwarded without brackets and can be
adopted as it stands. It is a delicate balance between what politically is achievable and what is
substantively needed on the ground to drive a paradigm shift in addressing climate change in
developing countries. Politically, the document provides donor countries with a high degree of
flexibility, while as the same time driving scaled up implementation mechanisms for developing
countries, including on direct access. In terms of the substance of the GCF, this flexibility means
that all governments are presented with an opportunity and none with an obligation.
In terms of generating a tangible paradigm shift in the delivery of climate finance, the 8 page
document is the foundation for a Fund that is greater than the sum of individual countries'
negotiating positions. It represents both the crucial political balance and also a Fund that is
substantively and technically different from business-as-usual with new, innovative components
in the form of objectives, governance arrangements, and operational modalities. While individual
governments may benefit from changes to the text, others may not, and the balance and
flexibility of the GCF constructed by the TC may be lost. It therefore is in the collective interest
of all governments to adopt this document in its current form.
However, the TC itself did not adopt the instrument due to the lack of consensus among
members of TC and there might be further discussion on the content of the governing instrument
before adopting it. This could lead to loosing of political momentum and the delays in
operalization of the GCF.

Adaptation Committee
The activities related to climate change on international and national levels were predominantly
focused on mitigation in the past decades. The importance of adaption was highlighted first in
Bali Action Plan in 2007 and it was also reflected in Cancun Agreements where the decision to
establish Adaptation Committee was taken (para 20) "to promote the implementation of
enhanced action on adaptation in a coherent manner under the convention through . providing
technical support and guidance to parties, strengthening, consolidating and enhancing the sharing
of relevant information, knowledge, experience and good practices, promoting synergies and
providing information and recommendations.". There is a draft decision prepared, however it still
contains various divergencies on the issues such as composition oth AC, how many members,
from which constituencies, whether the AC should comprise also advisory members were
discussed, frequency of the meetings of the AC, mode of work (sub-committees or experts from
NWP); when to review the AC (after 4 years and then periodically every 3 years or only after 4
years); activities of the AC for the first year: procedural and substantive. The work plan of the AC
should be adopted by COP18 in 2012. Parties in Durban are expected to find the compromises
on the above issues and finalize text of the decision in the way it caould be adopted by the COP.

Climate Technology Centre and NetworkAccording to the Cancun Agreement, Climate
Technology Centre and Network should be established as a part of the technology mechanism
(paras . It should be fully functional in 2012, so the Durban conference has to decide on the ToRs
for CTCN, procedures how to selection of the host organization, selection criteria and governing
issues. The UNFCCC Secretariat will help parties with organizing selection procedure, but
decisions have to be taken by parties through the COP.
According to Cancun Agreement, Climate Technology Centre and Network should be established
as a part of the technology mechanism. It should be fully functional in 2012, so the Durban
conference has to decide on the ToRs for CTCN, procedures how to select the host organization,
selection criteria and governing issues. The UNFCCC Secretariat will help parties with
organizing selection procedure, but decisions have to be taken by parties through the COP. Draft
decision was discussed, and procurement draft to be prepared by UNFCCC Secretariat. Main
undecided issues remaining to be solved in Durban are:
Governance: Should CTCN have its own independent governance structure or will be
govern by Technology Executive Committee
Selection procedure: timeline, who will do actual evaluation and selection - TEC or
special panel of 6 experts
Architecture: Only one seat or regional and country offices; relation to the network and
governments, linkages to financial and adaptation mechanisms
Other issues: Selection criteria; financing of the CTCN; reporting, roles and
responsibilities; ToRs




Capacity building framework
Two papers are ready to be the basis of discussions on CB in Durban: (a) compilation of
submissions in a draft decision; and (b) summary of the facilitator of in-depth discussion on CB
works in institutions and initiatives under the Convention.
(o) Capacity building: Discussions in the informal group addressed the need for more
coherence of capacity building under the different UNFCCC processes and emphasized
the cross-cutting nature of capacity building. Parties discussed gaps in the delivery of
capacity building as either integrated elements of projects and programmes or stand-alone
activities. Parties discussed where, and how, capacity building is integrated in the
mandates and work programmes of the LDC Expert Group (LEG) and the Consultative
Group of Experts (CGE). The paper is rather consolidated with the only few issues to be
decided (whether to establish a new enhanced mechanisms to assist SBI or SBI should
review its work on CB; to whom to address the request to undertake CB activities: only to
existing bodies or to the newly established as well). The issue of financing the CB
activities is also linked to finance, adaptation and technology discussion.
(|) Capacity-building work in institutions and initiatives under the Convention: summary of
the in-depth discussion on this topic is captured in the summary of the facilitator.
Background document prepared by secretariat was presented and commented on by
parties. Linkages with other bodies such as Consultative Group of Experts on National
Communications from Parties not included in Annex I to the Convention (CGE), the
Least Developed Countries Expert Group (LEG), GEF. Parties are urged to present
textual proposals before the next meeting as a basis to move forward in the negotiations.


Practical Information
The conference will start on Monday 28 November with welcoming ceremony. After the
ceremony, the opening session of the COP 17 will take place, followed by the opening session of
the CMP 7. In the afternoon two parallel opening sessions for subsidiary bodies are planned.
The work of ad hoc working groups will start on Tuesday morning with the opening session of
AWG KP 16-4 followed by AWG LCA 14-4 in the afternoon.
After than the work will be carried out mostly in contact and informal groups with one plenary
sessions of COP and CMP planned for Wednesday 30 November (morning and afternoon).
The SBs are supposed to complete their work by Saturday of the first week, AWGs will continue
as needed.
Ceremonial opening of high-level segment is planned for Tuesday afternoon of the second week
(6 December) followed by national statements of high level representatives of parties in front of
joint COP and CMP session.
Closing sessions are scheduled for Friday afternoon (9 December at 15:00)
Given that six bodies will be meeting during the sessional period, meeting time will be very
limited, especially for contact groups. To maximize the time available for negotiations, the
presiding officers, in consultation with the Parties, may propose timesaving measures and
approaches to expedite work. Such proposals will be based on these consultations, and on
relevant submissions and statements made during plenary meetings, and take into account any
previous negotiations and/or conclusions.
































ANNEX



To the Background paper
17 Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention th
on Climate Change
Durban, South Africa
28 November - 9 December 2011
I. The AWG-KP 16 (third part)
The work of the Ad hoc Working group on Further Commitments for Annex I Parties
under the Kyoto Protocol (AWG KP) had continued its work on the revised proposal by the
Chair which forms the basis for negotiating the text for Durban. The proposal has five chapters
and each was discussed in separate informal group.

Chapter I:



Chapter II:

Chapter III:

Chapter IV:





Chapter V:

Amendments to the Kyoto protocol pursuant to its Article 3, paragraph 9
(2nd commitment period)

Land-use, land-use change and forestry

Emission trading and the project-based mechanisms

Greenhouse gases, sectors and source categories, common metrics to
calculate the carbon dioxide equivalence of anthropogenic emissions by
sources and removals by sinks, and other methodological issues (Basket of
issues)

Consideration of information of potential environmental, economic and
social consequences, including spillover effects, of tools, policies,
measures and methodologies available to Annex I Parties (potential
consequences)

The document can be found on: http://unfccc.int/resource/docs/2011/awg16/eng/crp02r01.pdf

While the work on the chapters IV and V progressed relatively successfully, the chapter I
seemed to be most difficult. This is not surprising given the highly political character of the
second commitment period (2
nd
CP). The three countries, Canada, Japan, and Russia which
already declared that they will not commit to the second commitment period under the Kyoto
Protocol reiterated their intention not to do so also in Panama. Without them and without the US
(who did not ratify the Protocol), the potential second commitment period seems to be covering
only around 16% of the global greenhouse gas emissions and many developed countries are
starting to look at it as at transitional arrangements before some kind of global agreement is
reached. However, the 2
nd
CP is an unavoidable political condition of developing countries to
continue discussions on global agreement. Thus, for many the 2
nd
commitment period is
becoming sort of transition from current international regime dividing parties to developed
parties with reduction commitments and developing countries without reduction commitments to
new global treaty covering all major emitters respecting the principle of common but
differentiated responsibility and respective capabilities.
Low level of ambition of developed countries to reduce their emissions threatens the
objective of not to let the global temperature rise by more than 2C by the end of the century
compared to pre-industrial times. With the current pledges, the world is on the path to 3.5C to
4C.

Overall assessment of the Panama progress is highly positive and it is believed that in
Durban the AWG KP might come to an end of its mandate.

In the following text more detailed analyses of individual chapters of the revised proposal by the
Chair is presented.



Chapter I: Amendments to the Kyoto protocol pursuant to its Article 3, paragraph 9 (2
nd

commitment period)

The text of Chapter I consists of the draft text of the decision itself and its annex. The draft
decision offers two options how to reach the continuation of the Kyoto protocol: option 1 simply
says that the CMP adopts the amendments to the Kyoto protocol as contained in the annex to the
decision while option 2 is based on conditionality with regard to the adoption of a protocol under
the Ad hoc Working Group on long-term Cooperative Action under the Convention (AWG LCA)
track. In other words, the CMP will adopt the amendments to the Kyoto Protocol which shall
take effect only after some legal document is adopted under the LCA track. The issues discussed
under the chapters II to V would be decided by separate decisions also to be adopted by CMP7.

Annex to the draft decision contains substantial parts for 2
nd
commitment period to be
implemented: Part A is the table with quantified emission limitation or reduction commitments
(QELRCs) and the length of the 2
nd
CP. From three current proposals of the table of annex B,
first and last options are almost identical with the existing Annex B, listing countries with the
quantified emission limitation or reduction commitments for the period 2008 - 2012 and
providing columns for commitments for the next commitment period. The duration of the 2
nd
CP
is proposed to be either five years (from 2013 to 2017) or seven years (from 2013 to 2020).
Option 2 specifies the commitments for developed countries which a party to the KP in the form
of quantified domestic emission reduction and in the form of total reductions required, based on
historical responsibility and the needs of developing countries. All QELRCs are to be expressed
as a percentage of the base year or period. There are no numbers for the next commitment period
yet.

Part B of the annex contains proposal for textual amendments of the Kyoto protocol, mostly on
Article 3 (commitments). These relate the legal expression of commitments, length of the second
commitment period, and aggregated level of reduction (by all Annex B countries). Other
proposed changes are for Article 4 (paragraphs 2 and 3), Article 6 (paragraph 5), Article 9, 15,
17, 18, and 21. New articles are proposed related to potential new market mechanism.

Decisions needed to be taken in Durban:

Annex I Parties have to commit to the second commitment period

Numbers - need to transform current or more ambitious pledges of Annex I countries to
concrete figures expressed as a percentage of the base year or period (option 1 and 3) or
reduction commitments or to domestic emission reduction and total reduction required
based on historic responsibility (option 2)

Length of the second commitment period - five or seven years

Status of current countries with their economies in transition and the Turkey



Chapter II: Land-use, land-use change and forestry

The Chapter II provides draft decision to amend current LULUCF rules (decision 16/CMP.1).
The aim is to accommodate proposals from parties for changes based on the lessons learned from
the first commitment period and to adjust the rules for potential 2
nd
commitment period.

The main issues to be decided in Durban under the LULUCF are:

New definition of wetland drainage and rewetting is included, and there might be
changes in the definition of forests, however, textual proposals are not included yet.

What activities should be accounted for fulfilling the reduction commitments - in the 1
st

CP, parties may chose whether to account only for afforestation, reforestation and
deforestation or to cover also other activities: revegatation, forest management, cropland
management, grazing land management. According to the proposal for 2
nd
CP ALL parties
would be committed to the same activities, the voluntary element disappears.

Accounting rules for forest management - there are five options proposed: 1.
Reference levels; 2. Baselines; 3. Net-net accounting relative to the 1
st
CP; 4. Cap; 5. No
changes to the 1
st
CP.

Natural disturbances - whether and how to account for emissions caused by natural
disturbances. There is an agreement on a revised text on force majeure, now known as
"disturbances," with a few issues outstanding (conditions for possible exclusion of
emissions from natural disturbance).
Harvested wood products - they were not accounted for in the 1
st
CP. The proposed text
contains three options how to account for emissions from harvested processed wood:
based on default decay functions; based on default half-lives; and based on instant
oxidation.

"Flexible land-use" - possibility for parties to decide whether they account for
emissions from the conversion to a non-forest land of a forest by human-induced planting



Chapter III: Emission trading and the project-based mechanisms

The work on flexible mechanisms did not progress much due to the lack of political decisions,
mostly on existence of the second commitment period and on some highly political issues such
as whether to include nuclear activities or carry-over of assigned amount units (AAUs) unused in
the 1
st
commitment period. The only significant change was the removal of the proposal to apply
discount factor on CERs from certain type of CDM activities.

The progress was small and there are still many issues to be decided on political level in Durban.
These are mainly:

Conditions for continuation of the use of credits from mechanisms (only parties who
ratified second commitment period or to all parties to the Kyoto Protocol)

Activities relating to nuclear facilities - eligibility for inclusion into CDM or JI (yes or
no)

Carry-over of units from the first commitment period - there are three options on carry-
over amount: 1. limits to be decided; 2. no restriction; and 3. More elaborated text on
limitations (quantitative limits, limitation on domestic use, and ban on trade units). The
Democratic Republic of the Congo, on behalf of the African Group proposed that carry-
over from the first to the second commitment period should be limited to 1% of each
party's first commitment period AAUs, and that parties should be able to sell the amounts
carried over, with 50% of the revenue to be transferred to the Adaptation Fund.

Share of proceeds - currently, share of proceeds are applied only on the CER. There are
now proposals to extend the share of proceeds also to other two mechanisms under the
KP: on Joint Implementation and on International Emission Trading; and to increase
percentage of share of proceeds form CDM

New market-based mechanisms - parties have to decide whether to establish new
market-based mechanisms for the second commitment period or not
Chapter IV: Greenhouse gases, sectors and source categories, common metrics to
calculate the carbon dioxide equivalence of anthropogenic emissions
by sources and removals by sinks, and other methodological issues
(Basket of issues)

This chapter is most elaborate from all chapters. The text contains two sets of options (A and B)
covering the same issues (see below). Parties may decide to agree on option A removing the
brackets from nitrogen triflouride or to negotiate more issues still undecided under the option B.

2006 IPCC Guidelines for national GHG Inventories - waiting for the outcome of the
LULUCF

Inclusion of the new gases - either only nitrogen triflouride, or also fluorinated ethers,
perfluoropolyethers, and and trifluoromethyl sulphur pentafluoride

Global warming potential - which values should be used, those in the Second
Assessment report by IPCC or new ones from the Fourth Assessment report





Chapter V: Consideration of information of potential environmental, economic and
social consequences, including spillover effects, of tools, policies, measures
and methodologies available to Annex I Parties (potential consequences)

The text on response measures under the AWG KP is almost ready for adoption, concentrating on
understanding of potential consequences and observed impacts through various means such as
regular and systemic provision of information. How to report ant to whome still remains
undecided:

Reporting on the potential consequences and observed impacts - should there be
permanent forum established as a forum to report and evaluate impacts and consequences
or should the existing channels, such as national communications be used
II. The AWG LCA 14 (third part)

The third part of the 14
th
session of AWG LCA had continued its work on building blocks of Bali
action plan, in order to implement Cancun agreement. The work had been carried out in one
contact group and individual items were discussed in informal groups. This chapter provides
overview of the specific outcomes from the groups identifying issues forwarded to further
discussion (and possible decision) in Durban.

3.1. Shared vision
(Paragraphs 5 and 6 of the Cancun Agreement: 5. Agrees, in the context of the long-term goal and the ultimate
objective of the Convention and the Bali Action Plan, to work towards identifying a global goal for substantially
reducing global emissions by 2050, and to consider it at its seventeenth session;
6. Also agrees that Parties should cooperate in achieving the peaking of global and national greenhouse gas
emissions as soon as possible, recognizing that the time frame for peaking will be longer in developing countries,
and bearing in mind that social and economic development and poverty eradication are the first and overriding
priorities of developing countries and that a low-carbon development strategy is indispensable to sustainable
development. In this context, further agrees to work towards identifying a timeframe for global peaking of
greenhouse gas emissions based on the best available scientific knowledge and equitable access to sustainable
development, and to consider it at its seventeenth session)
The informal group on shared vision ended up with the non-paper in some form of the draft
decision with 17 sub-headings. Apart from those discussed in this group in Bonn few more were
added, covering now Global goal for substantially reducing global greenhouse gas emissions by
2050; Time frame for global peaking of greenhouse gas emissions; Equity; Historical
responsibility; Establishment of global goals for finance, technology, adaptation, and for
capacity-building; Trade; Response measures; Intellectual property issues in relation to
technology; Low-carbon and climate-resilient society; Human rights; Rights of mother earth;
Right to survive; An international climate court of justice; and Warfare.
There are two main items under the Shared vision to be agreed in Durban:
Global goal for global emissions reduction by 2050 - proposal are to set the global goal
on 50% or 85% or 90% from 1990 levels by 2050, with the possibility to update the
global goal based on the review to be carried out in 2013 or 2015 (the year of the review
still to be decided under the agenda item Review). Another proposal sets the global goal
to more than 100% by 2040.
Goal for developed countries by 2020 - to reach the global goal, there is a text requiring
developed countries to reduce their emissions by 30%, or 40% or 45% by 2020. Aligned
to the proposal of 100% reduction, there is a proposal for developed countries to reduce
their emissions by more than 50% by 2017.
Time frame for global peaking - there are several years proposed for global peaking:
immediately, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2017, and 2020
Compared to current level of pledges by developed countries (which is 17 to 25%), even
the lowest proposal 30% will be very difficult to negotiate. The issue also heavily
depends on the progress of discussion under the AWG KP Chapter I (Commitments of
Annex I Parties) where there is currently no significant change in positions and it will
need political decision on very high level.
http://unfccc.int/files/meetings/ad_hoc_working_groups/lca/application/pdf/20111006_sv_1930.pdf

3.2. Mitigation
3.2.1. Mitigation by the developed countries (paragraph 36 to 47 of the Cancun
Agreement )


Under this agenda item, Parties discussed texts as they left them from Bonn. Three sub items
were discussed: (a) level of ambition of developed countries reduction pledges; (b) international
assessment and review; and (c) biennial reports.
(a) Level of ambition: (paras 36 - 38 of CA) As the issue of the pledges awaits political
decision in Durban what the reduction commitments would be the discussions in
Panama focused on supporting issues such as how to increase level of ambition,
accounting framework, biennial reports. The developed countries would have liked to
discuss this issue together with the efforts of major emitters from developing
countries however this was strongly opposed by some DCs. As the US, Canada,
Russia and Japan will not be part of the second commitment period under the Kyoto
Protocol the existence of the new strong mitigation regime under the Convention is
more and more of great importance.
The outcome from the session on this item is in the form of co-facilitator`s summary:
http://unfccc.int/files/meetings/ad_hoc_working_groups/lca/application/pdf/co-
facilitators_summary_14_oct_for_web.pdf
(b) Biennial reports: (paras 40 - 43 of CA) Possible elements of the guidelines for
biennial reporting by developed countries contained in the non-paper by facilitator
were discussed. The non-paper has a form of the draft decision and covers six
chapters: objectives; GHG trends; reduction targets; progress in achieving targets;
projections; and provisional of financial, technological and capacity building support
to DCs. The text is rather developed even though under each chapter there are some
unresolved issues.
http://unfccc.int/files/meetings/ad_hoc_working_groups/lca/application/pdf/non-paper_3.2.1_v8_for_web2.pdf
(c) International assessment and review (IAR): (para 44 of CA) IAR should provide
better information from countries on their progress in fulfilling their respective
reduction commitments. While there is a general agreement on the need of IAR,
views differ on objectives, scope, frequency, inputs, processes, outputs.
http://unfccc.int/files/meetings/ad_hoc_working_groups/lca/application/pdf/non-paper_3.2.1_2_v9_for_counter.pdf



3.2.2. Mitigation by the developing countries (paragraphs 48 to 67 of the Cancun
Agreement)


Discussion focused on (a) paragraphs 48 to 51 of Cancun Agreement (CA) where several issues
have been discussed: deviation in emissions compared to BAU; support needed for NAMAs;
diversity of mitigation actions; (b) registry; (c) biennial reports by DCs; (d) international
consultation and analysis (ICA). However, all texts are in the form of summary or non-papers
prepared by co-facilitators.
(a) Discussions on paragraphs 48 - 51 of CA: Deviation from BAU - there is no
common view on what the deviation means, whether it relates to the ambitions or
diversity of mitigation actions. Developing countries think that the concept of
ambition did not apply to them and there is no need to regularly update the list of
NAMAs and to submit new or updated information on mitigation actions. Diversity of
mitigation actions - how and where to inform on updated NAMAs is unclear,
whether informing should be on voluntary basis, should it be in the UNFCCC
document of only in the registry. The use of a common template for NAMAs was
proposed by one Party and opposed by some reasoning that this may undermine
understanding of diversity in actions and national appropriateness. Provision of
support for NAMAs was discussed, without any textual results. According to some
Parties, a decision on financing to support preparation and implementation of
NAMAs is necessary, including support for institutional arrangements at the national
level
http://unfccc.int/files/meetings/ad_hoc_working_groups/lca/application/pdf/20111006_322_0830
..pdf
(b) Registry (paras 53 - 59 of CA): Main functions (recording of NAMAs seeking
international support and facilitating matching NAMAs and support) of the registry
were agreed. Domestically implemented NAMAs should also be recorded separately.
Format of the reporting NAMAs was discussed with divergent views among
developed countries (more formalized approach) and developing countries (more
flexibility). Further work to be conducted by SBI.
http://unfccc.int/files/meetings/ad_hoc_working_groups/lca/application/pdf/20111005_regisrty_
2200.pdf


(c) Biennial update reports (para 60 of CA): Possible elements of guidelines for biennial
reports from developing countries were discussed. The non-paper by co-facilitators is
prepared containing six chapters: Introduction (including objectives and scope);
National GHG inventories (methodologies and reporting); Mitigation actions;
Finance, technology and capacity-building needs and support received; Submission;
and Updating the guidelines. Capacity-building to assist DC in preparation biennial
reports was seen as critical issue by many delegations.
http://unfccc.int/files/meetings/ad_hoc_working_groups/lca/application/pdf/20111005_bur_2200
.pdf
(d) International consultation and analysis (ICA) (para 63 of CA): Objectives, principles,
process and scope of ICA, outcome, frequency and flexibility were discussed. It was
agreed that the objective of ICA is improved transparency of mitigation actions and
effects. There is a need for different frequencies of ICA for different countries.
Process should be lead by an expert team nominated by parties or a by single pool of
50 experts to be constituted for both ICA and IAR. Capacity building and learning-
by-doing are important aspects of ICA but there are capacity constraints at present
and building capacity takes time. There is a need for expedited funding for reporting
in order to get inputs for ICA ready to be used for 2013 - 2015 review (GEF6 has
money from 01.07.2014). Biennial reporting on LULUCF are especially challenging.
Developing countries insist that ICA is not supposed to analyze countries
performance. Possible elements of ICA decision in Durban: timing and frequency;
scope; content of analysis; output; format for international consultations.
http://unfccc.int/files/meetings/ad_hoc_working_groups/lca/application/pdf/20111006_ica_1130.
pdf


3.2.3. REDD+ (Reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation and the
role of conservation, sustainable management of forests and enhancement of forest
carbon stocks in developing countries) (paras 68 to 78 of CA)


The discussion focused mostly on financing issues. Parties have identified several sources of
financing: public sources; special RED+ window under the Green Climate Fund; existing
multilateral and bilateral channels; market-based mechanisms; combination of funds and market
based mechanisms; and any other new funding source. According to some Parties, public sources
should play more important in financing REDD+ in the first phase with gradual shift to other
sources in following phases. Further progress on the issue depends on technicalities to be dealt
with under the SBSTA (definitions, reference levels of emissions and forests, MRV.).
The issue was discussed in informal group, short text in the form on non-paper with many
placeholders for the text from SBSTA work was produced as a basis for further discussion in
Durban.
http://unfccc.int/files/meetings/ad_hoc_working_groups/lca/application/pdf/20111006_323_2000
.pdf


3.2.4. Sectoral approaches and sector specific actions
Under this agenda item, general frameworks and two sectors were discussed: (a) agriculture; and
(b) international aviation and maritime transport (bunkers).
On the general framework, a joint submission (FCCC/AWGLCA/2011/CRP.22) by a number of
developing countries emphasized the importance of food security; the need to avoid barriers and
distortions in international trade; and the importance of economic and social development in the
context of sectoral approaches.
On agriculture, parties considered language and worked to identify shared views on aspects of
market mechanisms (should they or should they not be applied); possible discrimination or
restriction of the international trade; unilateral measures (phytosanitary, technical.); food
security; economic development and poverty eradication. Parties agreed to work towards further
streamlining it based on submissions, with input from the Panama Facilitator's guidance paper
and the Bonn Facilitator's note
On international aviation and shipping, parties reflected on options for text. Traditionally,
discussion focused on the role of International Maritime Organization (IMO) and International
Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) those being specialized organizations for maritime transport
and civil aviation. Some developed countries welcomed progress made by the IMO at the 62nd
session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (where a historic agreement on the
energy efficiency of new ships no matter where they are built was reached. The regulations will
enter into force in 2013 and stipulate gradually increasing efficiency goals which, in 2025 when
fully phased in, mean that new ships are to be 30 per cent more energy efficient than the ships
built today. In addition, agreement was also reached on standards of how ships must develop and
maintain an energy savings plan on board. A mechanism has been developed to support
developing countries in their efforts to comply with the new requirements.). Other parties
doubted the extent to which the measures will be applied globally due to the majority rather than
consensus decision.
There is a consolidated text proposed by parties as a basis for Durban. Many parties called for
turning this to negotiation text however, it still contains more than 9 options on different
subjects.
http://unfccc.int/files/meetings/ad_hoc_working_groups/lca/application/pdf/20111007_sectapproaches_1200.pdf
3.2.5. Market and non-market mechanisms (Various approaches, including
opportunities for using markets to enhance the cost-effectiveness of, and to promote,
mitigation actions)
The text on this item is quite elaborated in the parties` compilation of 18 pages. It contains eight
chapters: preamble; principles and objectives for various approaches; evaluating existing
approaches and lessons learned; conditionalities; framework for various approaches; new
approaches; work programme; and readiness. However, there are many options in the text and
there are no clear views what new approaches should be introduced in post-2012 period (project-
based, sector-based, others).
The non-market based approaches focused on voluntary approaches, participation and access.
There is a proposal to consider the establishment of mechanisms, at COP18 that enhance the
cost-effectiveness of, and promote mitigation actions such as: subsidies; taxes; regulation and
environmental law; consumption and production; education and capacity-building; net reduction
and avoidance of greenhouse gas emissions; warfare impact of greenhouse gas emissions;
technology; precautionary measures. Parties will review and streamline the compilation
document before Durban, and that it will be used as the basis of discussion for a draft decision.
http://unfccc.int/files/meetings/ad_hoc_working_groups/lca/application/pdf/20111007_325_1530
.pdf


3.2.6. Response measures
The discussion on response measures (RM) is summarized in the note of facilitator. The main
lines of discussion are: the response measures should be part of the outcome of Durban;
unilateral actions might be considered as a response measures in some cases; issue of
information on observed RM; need to establish a continuous forum for RM; ex-ante impacts and
specific actions to avoid and minimize negative economic and social consequences on
developing country Parties need to be considered; discussion on RM under the LCA should set a
political parameter to the issue; links to the discussion on RM under other bodies of the
Convention (SBI, SBSTA). Some parties question the mandate of the group when the issues of
trade were discussed.
http://unfccc.int/files/meetings/ad_hoc_working_groups/lca/application/pdf/lca_facilitators_note
_agenda_item_3.2.6_7_oct_7.30pm.pdf
3.3. Adaptation
Under this agenda item, the discussion focused on the operationalization of, composition of, and
modalities and procedures for, the new Adaptation Committee, highlighting links to other
institutions, national adaptation plans and the Green Climate Fund. On composition, issues such
as how many members, from which constituencies, whether the AC should comprise also
advisory members were discussed, frequency of the meetings of the AC, mode of work
(subcommittees or experts from NWP); when to review the AC (after 4 years and then
periodically every 3 years or only after 4 years); activities of the AC for the first year: procedural
and substantive. The work plan of the AC should be adopted by COP18 in 2012. The negotiating
text is in the form of draft decision.
http://unfccc.int/files/meetings/ad_hoc_working_groups/lca/application/pdf/20111007_adaptation_1000.pdf


3.4. Finance
There are two texts produced under the agenda item finance: (a) Standing committee (SC); and
(b) Long-term Finance.
(a) Standing Committee: While parties were waiting for the last meeting of the Transitional
Committee on GCF (held on 16 - 18 October 2011 in Cape Town) discussion on finance
focused mostly on the roles and functions, composition, and working modalities of the
Standing Committee. Its role as defined in paragraph 112 of the Cancun Agreements is
"to assist the Conference of the Parties in exercising its functions with respect to the
financial mechanisms of the Convention.". The main issues of divergence are:
Status: should the SC be a permanent subsidiary body or not, scope of work and
responsibilities
Composition of SC: how many members 16 or 24, from which constituencies,
advisory members?
How to work: frequency of the meetings, mode of work: subcommittees, or
experts from NWP, linkages to other work.
Activities of the SC for the first year: procedural and substantive, for adoption by
COP18
http://unfccc.int/files/meetings/ad_hoc_working_groups/lca/application/pdf/20111007_financestc
ommittee_1300_2.pdf


(b) Long-Term Finance: the draft co-facilitators consolidated text is full of options and
different views from parties. Some parties were not willing to discuss long-term finance
at this point of time while others wanted to progress with this matter to get clearer idea
where the funds for GCF would come from.
http://unfccc.int/files/meetings/ad_hoc_working_groups/lca/application/pdf/20111007_financeltf_1300.pdf
The discussion on finance in Durban will very likely focus on Standing Committee and the
adoption of the report of the Transitional committee. TC has prepared draft governing instrument
for the Green Climate Fund, however the TC was not able to agree on final text. So the TC has
just took note of it and it is now the role of the COP17 to adopt the governing instrument. As
there is no agreement in the TC, further discussion can be expected. Report of the TC to the
COP17 can be found on the following web page:
http://unfccc.int/files/cancun_agreements/green_climate_fund/application/pdf/tc4-3.pdf


3.5. Technology
According to Cancun Agreement, Climate Technology Centre and Network should be established
as a part of the technology mechanism. It should be fully functional in 2012, so the Durban
conference has to decide on the ToRs for CTCN, procedures how to select the host organization,
selection criteria and governing issues. The UNFCCC Secretariat will help parties with
organizing selection procedure, but decisions have to be taken by parties through the COP. Draft
decision was discussed, and procurement draft to be prepared by UNFCCC Secretariat. Main
undecided issues remaining to be solved in Durban are:
Governance: Should CTCN have its own independent governance structure or will be
govern by Technology Executive Committee
Selection procedure: timeline, who will do actual evaluation and selection - TEC or
special panel of 6 experts
Architecture: Only one seat or regional and country offices; relation to the network and
governments, linkages to financial and adaptation mechanisms
Other issues: Selection criteria; financing of the CTCN; reporting, roles and
responsibilities; ToR
http://unfccc.int/files/meetings/ad_hoc_working_groups/lca/application/pdf/20111007_tch_1300.
pdf


3.6. Capacity building


Two papers are ready to be the basis of discussions on CB in Durban: (a) compilation of
submissions in a draft decision; and (b) summary of the facilitator of in-depth discussion on CB
works in institutions and initiatives under the Convention.
(a) Capacity building: Discussions in the informal group addressed the need for more
coherence of capacity building under the different UNFCCC processes and emphasized
the cross-cutting nature of capacity building. Parties discussed gaps in the delivery of
capacity building as either integrated elements of projects and programmes or stand-alone
activities. Parties discussed where, and how, capacity building is integrated in the
mandates and work programmes of the LDC Expert Group (LEG) and the Consultative
Group of Experts (CGE). The paper is rather consolidated with the only few issues to be
decided (whether to establish a new enhanced mechanisms to assist SBI or SBI should
review its work on CB; to whom to address the request to undertake CB activities: only to
existing bodies or to the newly established as well). The issue of financing the CB
activities is also linked to finance, adaptation and technology discussion.
http://unfccc.int/files/meetings/ad_hoc_working_groups/lca/application/pdf/20111007_cb_1130.
pdf
(b) Capacity-building work in institutions and initiatives under the Convention: summary of
the in-depth discussion on this topic is captured in the summary of the facilitator.
Background document prepared by secretariat was presented and commented on by
parties. Linkages with other bodies such as Consultative Group of Experts on National
Communications from Parties not included in Annex I to the Convention (CGE), the
Least Developed Countries Expert Group (LEG), GEF. Parties are urged to present
textual proposals before the next meeting as a basis to move forward in the negotiations.
http://unfccc.int/files/meetings/ad_hoc_working_groups/lca/application/pdf/cb_facilitator_summ
ary_031011_v.5.pdf


4. Review: further definition of its scope and development of its modalities
Parties continue discussion on the facilitators1 note from Bonn session. Views differ on the
scope, definitions, principles, inputs; process and the way forward. On scope of the review,
dilemma was between focusing on the adequacy of the long-term global goal, or to address
implementation of the Convention and overall progress towards achieving the global goal.
Others suggested that the review should include consideration of whether the Convention's
structure should be modified. On definitions, some parties consider the definition of the scope
inadequate and asked for more, others consider the definition in the Cancun agreement sufficient.
On key principles, debates were between the need for a party-driven process or principle of
common but differentiated responsibilities, equity and transparency. On inputs, possible sources
of information were identified: the IPCC's AR4, IPCC working group contributions to the Fifth
Assessment Report (AR5), the proposed biennial reports and countries' climate policies and
actions. Others suggested starting the process before 2013 and gathering inputs through a
clearinghouse mechanism. On modalities, opinions were from using existing mechanisms (SBI,
SBSTA) to undertake the review and opposed the establishment of a new mechanism.
http://unfccc.int/files/meetings/ad_hoc_working_groups/lca/application/pdf/20111007_review_0
900.pdf


5. Continued discussion of legal options with the aim of completing an agreed
outcome:
The facilitator prepared a paper with a "menu of legal options," setting out a range of possible
options for a Durban outcome, including:
a legally binding instrument;
COP decisions, with various sub-options:
o a mandate to conclude an legally binding instrument with a clear roadmap;
o a declaration regarding the future instrument, leaving the legal form open;
o continuing discussions to identify the appropriate form of the different elements
of the agreed outcome;
o affirming the importance of an legally binding instrument;
o and continuing to address all the BAP pillars.
The character of the paper is very informal and was not even published as an in-session material.

6. Other matters
Under Other matters, the issues of (a) EITs and (b) Turkey were considered.
(a) EIT: During informal consultations, parties discussed a draft COP 17 decision presented
by Annex I countries with economies in transition, addressing support for low-emission
economic growth. The main request is that EITS shall not be bound by legal
commitments under post-2012 climate change arrangements to provide new and
additional financial resources, technology transfer and institutional capacity-building in
support of developing countries, although they may wish to consider to do so on a
voluntary basis; and on the other hand to receive capacity building, financial, technical
and technology transfer assistance in order to assist them in the development and
implementation of their national low-emission development strategy and action plans.
http://unfccc.int/resource/docs/2011/awglca14/eng/misc08.pdf#page=130
(FCCC/AWGLCA/2011/MISC.8, pages 130-131)
(b) Turkey: In informal consultations, parties exchanged views on Turkey's draft text for a
decision in Durban. The draft decision proposed that in regard to mitigation, adaptation,
technology development and transfer, capacity building and finance, any agreement,
decision or instrument adopted by the Parties shall provide Turkey the flexibility and
support given to those developing country parties whose economic and social
development indicators are similar to Turkey; that Turkey shall not be bound by legal
commitments to provide new and additional financial resources and/or support, including
technology development and transfer and capacity building under any agreement,
decision or instrument adopted by the Parties; that adequate financial resources provided
through operating entities of the Financial Mechanism of the Convention, funds under the
Convention, market mechanisms and other delivery channels of finance including inter
alia bilateral and multilateral financial institutions and funds; technology development
and transfer support through technology mechanism and capacity building assistance
shall be provided to Turkey under the Convention and any agreement, decision or
instrument adopted by the Parties in order for Turkey to address climate change. During
the second informal meeting Turkey provided more streamlined text accommodating
some of the concerns expressed.
http://unfccc.int/files/meetings/ad_hoc_working_groups/lca/application/pdf/draft_decision_turke
y.pdf
III. 34
th
session of SBSTA




1.1.1. Nairobi work programme on impacts, vulnerability and adaptation to
climate change: The SBSTA 34 was supposed to finish the review of second phase of
implementation of Nairobi work programme (according to the decision 2/CP.11, para 6
(e) and to decide on future specific activities under this programme. Review was based
on submission by Parties FCCC/SBSTA/2011/MISC.3) and information document
prepared by the Secretariat (FCCC/SBSTA/2011/INF.2). The review has been concluded
at SBSTA 34 so now the considerations on further work may start. Until the end of the
second phase (by end of 2011), secretariat should, subject to the availability of resources
to:
conduct a survey of national focal points to identify priority needs;
compile information on ecosystem-based approaches to adaptation;
prepare technical paper on water and climate change impacts to adaptation; and
organize the joint SBI/SBSTA in-session workshop to consider outcomes of NWP
most relevant to SBI

SBSTA 35 should consider further work and define the duration and activities for the next
phase (to draft decision for adoption by COP17). Preliminary proposals for the duration are
2 or 3 years, activities are to be decided based on submissions from parties and
organizations. The activities to be taken into account are listed in the Annex to the
conclusions. Parties and relevant organizations are invited to submit to secretariat by 19
September 2011, the proposals for upcoming activities. When submitting their proposals,
parties and organizations should take into considerations Annex to the decisions, where the
preamble says inter alia ".enhanced action on adaptation . should follow a country
driven, gender-sensitive, participatory and fully transparent approach."
Document FCCC/SBSTA/2011/L.13



1.1.2. Methodological guidance for activities relating to reducing emissions from
deforestation and forest degradation and the role of conservation, sustainable
management of forest and enhancement of forest carbon stocks in developing
countries: The objective is to prepare a draft COP decision on modalities for activities in
REDD+ to reduce tropical deforestation by at least 50% by 2020 compared to current
levels and stop the forest cover loss by 2030. The REDD+ activities should also preserve
ecosystems, biodiversity and social co-benefits. Specific issues for SBSTA 34 were
information systems on safeguards, forest reference levels and forest reference emission
levels, reference to the relevant IPCC guidelines on forest-related greenhouse gas
emissions by sources and removals by sinks, forest carbon stocks and forest area changes.
Some discussion was going on whether the SBSTA work should solely focus on Annex 2 of
the Cancun agreement (1/CP.16 paragraph 75) or it may be broaden by other issues parties
consider as relevant. By its conclusions SBSTA 34 decided to continue these considerations
with the aim to conclude its work in Durban on SBSTA 35. The SBSTA also invited parties
and accredited observers to submit to the secretariat, by 19 September 2011, their views on
issues in the annex to the conclusions, such as: characteristics and design of safeguards;
guidance for scope, construction and characteristics of reference levels; modalities for
MRV as referred to in Annex II of the 1/CP.16; guidance on REDD+ activities as in
paragraph 70 of the 1/CP.16. Submissions will form the base for further work. Subject to
availability of financial resources, meeting of technical experts should be organized prior to
SBSTA 35.

Document FCCC/SBSTA/2011/L.14



1.1.3. Development and transfer of technologies: The pre-sessional workshop on
technology needs assessment (TNAs) held on 1 - 2 June 2011 in Bonn and organized by
the UNFCCC Secretariat in collaboration with GEF, UNDP, UNEP and Climate
Technology Initiative (CTI) formed the basis for the conclusions on this item. The SBSTA
34 also recalled its conclusions from 33
rd
session to organize, subject to availability of
resources, two training workshops in French and Spanish, on preparing technology transfer
projects for non-Annex I parties.

Document FCCC/SBSTA/2011/L.10



1.1.4. Research and systematic observation: Research and systematic observation
plays the fundamental role for developing and validating climate models, and even more
important role for adaptation activities. The pre-sessional workshop on research was
organized by the secretariat, under the guidance of the Chair of the SBSTA, from 2 to 3
June 2011. More information on the workshop can be found here:
http://unfccc.int/methods_and_science/research_and_systematic_observation/items/6032.
php. The workshop strengthened the research dialogue between parties and research
programmes and organizations, enhanced communication between science and policy
communities and understanding of new scientific findings. Subject to availability of
financial resources, further workshops should be organized. The SBSTA also invited
parties to provide, by 19 September 2011, their views on the research dialogue, including
ongoing activities, associated modalities and ways to enhance the dialogue. Submissions
will be further considered on SBSTA 35. Matters related to systematic observation,
including issues related to the timing of the contributions of the Global Climate
Observing System are deferred to SBSTA 36.

Document FCCC/SBSTA/2011/L.4



1.1.5. Forum on the impact of implementation of response measures as at the thirty
fourth and thirty fifth sessions of the subsidiary bodies, with the objective of
developing a work programme under the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and
Technological Advice and the Subsidiary Body for Implementation to address these
impacts, with a view to adopting, at the seventeenth session of the Conference of the
Parties, modalities for the operationalization of the work programme and a possible
forum on response measures: The item was included into the agenda of both subsidiary
bodies based on the paragraph 93 of the 1/CP.16 requiring chairs of SBs to convene the
forum at its 34th and 35th sessions. The joint forum of SBI and SBSTA has been therefore
established. The forum has met several times during the second week of Bonn talks. First
parties presented their views on impacts of response measures and the scope and modalities
of the work. Issues of international trade, oil exports, impacts on tourism, were mentioned.
Many parties asked for streamlining the response measures issues form other agendas
preferentially under the forum, some other parties opposed streamlining arguing that RM
have their place in all bodies of the Convention. Work will continue in Durban with the aim
to adopt modalities of work of the forum. Submissions are invited from parties and
observers by 19 September 2011 to be further considered at 354
th
session of SBs.

Document FCCC/SBSTA/2011/L.16, FCCC/SBI/2011/L.18



1.1.6. Matters relating to Article 2, paragraph 3, of the Kyoto Protocol: In Cancun,
both the SBSTA and the SBI have decided on a joint workshop on this item to be held prior
to the 35
th
session of SBs. Parties have submitted their views on what should be addressed
at the workshop (sharing information, minimizing, adverse effects, research and
assessment, enhancing support to DCs, enhancing reporting and verification). The issue
will be further considered at the 35
th
session of SBSTA.

Document FCCC/SBSTA/2011/L.16, FCCC/SBI/2011/L.12
1.1.7. Methodological issues under the Convention:
(a) Emissions from fuel used for international aviation and maritime transport:
No progress in the issue, reports from International Civil Aviation Organization
(ICAO) and the International Maritime Organization (IMO) on their ongoing work
Document FCCC/SBSTA/2011/L.2


(b) Revision of the UNFCCC reporting guidelines on annual inventories for Parties
included in Annex I to the Convention
The document FCCC/SBSTA/2011/INF.4 Draft annotated revised UNFCCC Annex I
reporting guidelines has been issued by secretariat at 30 May 2011, however, the
SBSTA was not able to consider the document and invited the secretariat to organize
fourth workshop on guidelines in the second half of 2011. Based on the outcomes of
the workshop, new version of the document should be prepared for consideration at
SBSTA 35 with a view to prepare draft decision for adoption by COP17.
Document FCCC/SBSTA/2011/L.3


(c) Greenhouse gas data interface
The SBSTA 34 appreciated the GHG data interface and requested the secretariat to
include modules to allow in the modules of the data interface, where applicable, the
possibility of presenting GHG emissions/removals in physical units, in addition to
carbon dioxide equivalent. The issue will be further considered in one-years time at
SBSTA 36 in 2012.
Document FCCC/SBSTA/2011/L.7



1.1.8. Methodological issues under the Kyoto Protocol:


(a) Implications of the establishment of new hydrochlorofluorocarbon-22 (HCFC-22)
facilities seeking to obtain certified emission reductions for the destruction of
hydrofluorocarbon-23 (HFC-23);
The matter is considered with the aim to provide guidance to the CDM Executive
Board on the treatment of new HCFC-22 facilities for the purpose of CDM projects.
Technical paper was prepared by the Secretariat issued on 31 may 2011
(FCCC/TP/2011/2). The item will be considered at the 35
th
session.
Document FCCC/SBSTA/2011/L.6


(b) Materiality standard under the clean development mechanism;
The decision 3/CMP.6 requested the SBSTA to consider the issue of materiality, with
a view to recommending a draft decision on this matter for adoption by the CMP at its
seventh session. Parties have submitted their views and the secretariat had prepared
technical paper issued on 31 May 20011 (FCCC/TP/2011/4). The item will be
considered at the 35
th
session.
Document FCCC/SBSTA/2011/L.11



(c) Common metrics to calculate the CO2 equivalence of greenhouse gases
The issue of common metric to calculate the carbon dioxide equivalence of
anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions by sources and removals by sinks has been
in the agenda since SBSTA 30 (2009). Alternative common metrics and shortcomings
in the use of GWPs are still being assessed by the IPCC in the context of its work on
its Fifth Assessment Report. The secretariat was requested to organize subject to the
availability of resources, a workshop on common metrics, to be held in the first half
of 2012, with a focus on uncertainties, new and refined areas or metrics, policy goals,
and the relationship between policy frameworks and metrics. The issue will be further
considered at the 36th session of SBSTA in 2012.
Document FCCC/SBSTA/2011/L.8


(d) Scientific, technical and socio-economic aspects of mitigation of climate change
The item will be considered at the 35th session, taking into account the best available
scientific information on mitigation, in particular information from the IPCC. The
Chair of the SBSTA will consult with Parties on the extent to which the matter should
be further considered at that session.



Document FCCC/SBSTA/2011/L.9



1.1.9. Cooperation with other international organizations: No progress with the
item, statements by the secretariats of the Convention on Biological Diversity and the
United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification on their activities and efforts to
address climate change and on their contribution to the work of the Convention
Document FCCC/SBSTA/2011/L.5

IV. 34
th
session of SBI



The SBI started late as there were lengthy informal discussions on the adoption of the
agenda both before opening and after opening the sessions. As a result sub-item on information
contained in non-Annex I national communications is held in abeyance and placed on SBI 35's
provisional agenda; and sub-items on revision of guidelines on the reporting of national
communications, including the biennial reports for Annex I parties, and development of
guidelines for biennial reports as part of non-Annex I national communications, respectively,
together with the relevant footnotes, would be deleted from the agenda. The item on a forum on
the impact of the implementation of response measures, the SBI proceeded in the same manner
as the SBSTA, and convened a forum at this and would convene another one in Durban.
Subsequently all contact groups were established and a number of conclusions were adopted. As
a way forward on many of the items it was decided to convene different workshops and to
request submissions by Parties and organizations.
1. National communications and GHG inventory data from parties included in
Annex I to the Convention: The conclusions on the status of submission and review of
fifth national communications are in the document FCCC/SBI/2011/L.2. Sixth national
communications should be submitted to the secretariat by 1 January 2014.
Consideration of compilation and synthesis of fifth national communications will
continue at SBI 35.
Documents FCCC/SBI/2011/L.2, L.3



2. National communications from parties not included in Annex I to the Convention:
(a) Consultative group of experts: The work programme of the consultative Group of
Experts on Non-Annex I National Communications (CGE) is endorsed, and the term
and the mandate of the CGE and the need for the continuation of the group shall be
reviewed by the COP 17.
Document FCCC/SBI/2011/L.8



(c) Further implementation of Article 12, paragraph 5, of the Convention: On the
Convention Article 12(5) (frequency of the submission of NC) the SBI agreed to
continue consideration of the issue at SBI 35.
(d) Provision of financial and technical support: SBSTA invited GEF to continue to provid
information on Non Annex I NC preparations, and Non Annex I parties were invited to
make submissions, by 19 September 2011, on the detailed costs incurred by non-Annex I
Parties, including in-kind contributions, for the preparation of their most recent
national communications and on the financial resources.
Document FCCC/SBI/2011/L.9


3. Financial mechanism of the Convention: The synthesis report on the National
Economic, Environment and Development Study (NEEDS) for climate change was
discussed, as well as complementary work undertaken by UNDP EEG, and the funding
needs for global climate observations and further support to strengthen observation
networks and capabilities in developing countries, especially least developed country
Parties and small island developing States. Parties are invited to submit to the
secretariat, by 19 September 2011, information on support provided to developing
country Parties and activities undertaken to strengthen existing and, where needed,
establish national and regional systematic observation and monitoring networks for
compilation and for consideration by the SBI 35.
Document FCCC/SBI/2011/L.17



4. Article 6 of the Convention: (education, training and public awareness), was decided
to organize workshop in LDCs by SBs next year. The New Delhi work programme will
be reviewed - in strengthening the bottom up approach, and active participation of
women, youth, and media, incorporating gender aspects, strengthening adaptation
issues in education and communication campaigns. Developing countries will be
supported to elaborate national strategies and plans on art. 6. There will be a special
event in Durban.
Document FCCC/SBI/2011/L.6



5. Matters relating to Article 4, paragraphs 8 and 9, of the Convention: No progress
on the text of the draft decision (as in Annex IV of the FCCC/SBI/2010/10), the matters
will be further considered on SBI 35 with a view to the results of Cancun. The work
programme of the LEG for 2011-2012 was endorsed. The Instanbul Programme of
Action for LDCs is going to be linked to the work of LEG.
Documents FCCC/SBI/2011/L.14, L.4
6. The National adaptation plans: (Remark: not only for LDCs, but as well for all
developing countries). It was decided to organize expert meeting on process of LDCs to
develop and implement NAPs and how to receive support for both developing and
LDCs. Submissions are invited by 15 August on the process and guidelines.
Document FCCC/SBI/2011/L.16



7. Approaches to address loss and damage associated with climate change impacts in
DCs that are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change to
enhance adaptive capacity: Parties engaged in a technical workshop to share views on
current work being undertaken across the multilateral system on this issue. Within the
SBI, parties agreed to hold another technical workshop to share views on how a work
plan under the Convention could function and what financial and technical support
may be needed. International organizations were invited to submit views on this by 15
August.
Document FCCC/2011/SBI/L.20



8. Matters relating to Article 3, paragraph 14 of the Kyoto Protocol: The SBI and the
SBSTA requested the secretariat to organize the joint workshop, before their 35th
sessions. Issues that will be addressed at the workshop were identified, including: (a)
Sharing information to enhance understanding of adverse effects, including the adverse
effects of climate change, effects on international trade, and social, environmental and
economic impacts; (b) Minimizing the adverse effects through a process to implement
Article 3, paragraph 14, and Article 2, paragraph 3, of the Kyoto Protocol. The SBI and
the SBSTA agreed to continue to discuss these matters related, including consideration
of the workshop report in a joint contact group to be established at their 35th sessions.
Document FCCC/SBI/2011/L.12



9. Forum on the impact of implementation of response measures as at the thirty
fourth and thirty fifth sessions of the subsidiary bodies, with the objective of
developing a work programme under the Subsidiary Body for Scientific and
Technological Advice and the Subsidiary Body for Implementation to address
these impacts, with a view to adopting, at the seventeenth session of the
Conference of the Parties, modalities for the operationalization of the work
programme and a possible forum on response measures: The item was included into
the agenda of both subsidiary bodies based on the paragraph 93 of the 1/CP.16 requiring
chairs of SBs to convene the forum at its 34th and 35th sessions. The joint forum of
SBI and SBSTA has been therefore established. The forum has met several times during
the second week of Bonn talks. First parties presented their views on impacts of
response measures and the scope and modalities of the work. Issues of international
trade, oil exports, impacts on tourism, were mentioned. Many parties asked for
streamlining the response measures issues form other agendas preferentially under the
forum, some other parties opposed streamlining arguing that RM have their place in all
bodies of the Convention. Work will continue in Durban with the aim to adopt
modalities of work of the forum. Submissions are invited from parties and observers by
19 September 2011 to be further considered at 354
th
session of SBs.
Document FCCC/SBI/2011/L.18



10. Development and transfer of technologies: 36 non Annex I Parties were assisted in
developing of Technology Needs Assessements (TNAs) and many requested update.
Document FCCC/SBI/2011/L.10



11. Capacity building under the Convention and under the Kyoto Protocol: Under the
Convention capacity building, Parties were unable to agree on the second
comprehensive review of the capacity building framework, and agreed to continue
consideration of the issue at SBI 35. Under the KP, no agreement had been reached, to
continue consideration of the issue at SBI 35.


12. Amendments to the Kyoto Protocol of procedures and mechanisms relating to
compliance: No agreement on this, matter to continue being considered at SBI 35.


13. Procedures, mechanisms and institutional arrangements for appeals against the
decision of the Executive Board of the Clean Development Mechanism (EB CDM):
The divergent views remain, in particular on the scope of the appeals procedure. Initial
draft text has been proposed, however, there is many options and bracketed text. Draft
will be further considered at SBI 35 with a view to submit it to CMP17 for adoption.
Document FCCC/SBI/2011/L.11



14. Arrangements for intergovernmental meetings: 19th COP should come from Eastern
European Group (possibly Hungary). Future sessional periods were decided as follows:
For 2014: 4 - 15 June; and 3 - 14 December
For 2015: 3 - 14 June; and 2 - 13 December
For 2016: 18 - 29 May; and 30 November - 11 December
On the Observer organizations in the process, the need to engage broad range of
stakeholders was recognized, and agreed that the existing means of engagement could be
further enhanced (the issue on participation of observers in contact and informal groups
was deleted from the final version). Upcoming UNFCCC special event on observer
participation at COP 17 is planned. Possible elements for provisional agendas of
COP17/CMP7 were presented by the Executive Secretary for parties to consider in an
addendum to the document 6.
Document FCCC/SBI/2011/L.19, FCCC/SBI/6/Add.1



15. Administrative, financial and institutional matters: The SBI took note of the
financial statement and the status of contributions, and approved the programme budget for the
biennium 2012 - 2013 in the total sum of 48 511 181 EUR, and adopted indicative scale of
contributions of individual parties.
Document FCCC/SBI/2011/L.21.Add.1