This document provides summaries of recent publications from the Fridtjof Nansen Institute (FNI) on topics related to climate change, law of the sea, biodiversity, Arctic politics, European energy policy, and Chinese environmental policy. The summaries describe books and reports on issues such as climate change adaptation and development, Arctic coastal state jurisdiction, access and benefit-sharing of genetic resources, decentralized conservation management in Nepal, and China's political economy of shale gas development.
This document provides summaries of recent publications from the Fridtjof Nansen Institute (FNI) across several topic areas:
1. It summarizes a chapter on the evolving importance of transparency in non-state certification programs for fisheries and forests.
2. It summarizes a study finding that New Public Management reforms reduced the adaptive capacity of urban planning and the electricity sector to climate change by prioritizing private actors and economic efficiency over robustness.
3. It summarizes articles on differences in how international protected area regimes influenced policy in Norway and Sweden, technology transfer in India, and approaches for realizing the Aichi Biodiversity Target on access and benefit sharing.
Climate change and resource development scenarios for the Nechako watershed -...Carling Matthews
The document summarizes a workshop that envisioned four future scenarios for the Nechako watershed in British Columbia based on varying levels of climate change and natural resource development. Thirty-two stakeholders from diverse backgrounds attended the workshop and helped develop descriptions of the watershed in 2050 under scenarios of low/high climate change and low/high resource development. For each scenario, participants identified potential impacts on natural and human systems as well as adaptation strategies. The workshop aimed to facilitate knowledge-sharing and long-term planning to help the region prepare for climate impacts and manage resource development.
Climate change and resource development scenarios for the Nechako watershed -...Carling Matthews
This document summarizes a workshop report on developing climate change and resource development scenarios for the Nechako watershed in British Columbia. Thirty-two stakeholders from various sectors attended the workshop to create four scenarios for the watershed in 2050 based on combinations of high/low climate change and resource development. The scenarios envisioned impacts on natural, social, and economic systems. The report findings will help facilitate knowledge-sharing, long-term planning, and climate action in the region.
This document proposes a stepwise approach to conducting a water-energy-food nexus assessment. The assessment aims to understand interactions between water, energy and food systems in a given context and evaluate the performance of interventions. The assessment involves analyzing the current context, applying specific tools to quantify impacts, and assessing interventions' resource use efficiency and productivity versus context status. Key stakeholders should be engaged throughout to build consensus on strategic issues across sectors and scales. The assessment helps inform nexus-related strategies, policies, planning and institutional responses.
Key Messages and Outcomes from the Good Governance discussions at the 6th Wor...OECD Governance
This report summarises key messages and outcomes from the Good Governance discussions at the 6th World Water Forum, Marseille 2012. It provides brief overviews of each sessions as well as recommendations and commitments formulated during the Closing session of the “Good Governance” Group to support the implementation of the agreed targets up to the 7th World Water Forum, to be held in 2015 in Korea.
For more information see www.oecd.org/gov/water
Blue economy-_sharing_success_stories_to_inspire_change-2015blue_economy_sha...nabila berroual
Oceans are vital, not only to a wide array of biodiversity and
ecosystems, but also to the food chains, livelihoods and climate
regulation for a human population heading towards nine billion people.
That is why this report shares stories that illustrate how economic
indicators and development strategies can better reflect the true value
of such wide spread benefits and potentially even build on them.
UNEP Handbook: Sustainable Consumption and Production for Poverty Alleviation David Vicent
UNEP Excellent papers about how to balance production and consuption specially in Poverty areas, as a basis for sustainable development and community based tourism programmes.
This document summarizes interviews conducted with 26 stakeholders involved in international climate finance. Three key pre-conditions for effective climate finance were identified: 1) Mainstreaming climate change into development planning, budgeting and cooperation; 2) Establishing national transparency and accountability systems; and 3) Building capacity and stakeholder engagement. While recipients, providers, and supporters recognized these pre-conditions, views varied on issues like the use of country systems and the role of national climate funds. Overall, the interviews revealed both shared understandings and differences in priorities among stakeholders regarding how to deliver international climate finance most effectively.
This document provides summaries of recent publications from the Fridtjof Nansen Institute (FNI) across several topic areas:
1. It summarizes a chapter on the evolving importance of transparency in non-state certification programs for fisheries and forests.
2. It summarizes a study finding that New Public Management reforms reduced the adaptive capacity of urban planning and the electricity sector to climate change by prioritizing private actors and economic efficiency over robustness.
3. It summarizes articles on differences in how international protected area regimes influenced policy in Norway and Sweden, technology transfer in India, and approaches for realizing the Aichi Biodiversity Target on access and benefit sharing.
Climate change and resource development scenarios for the Nechako watershed -...Carling Matthews
The document summarizes a workshop that envisioned four future scenarios for the Nechako watershed in British Columbia based on varying levels of climate change and natural resource development. Thirty-two stakeholders from diverse backgrounds attended the workshop and helped develop descriptions of the watershed in 2050 under scenarios of low/high climate change and low/high resource development. For each scenario, participants identified potential impacts on natural and human systems as well as adaptation strategies. The workshop aimed to facilitate knowledge-sharing and long-term planning to help the region prepare for climate impacts and manage resource development.
Climate change and resource development scenarios for the Nechako watershed -...Carling Matthews
This document summarizes a workshop report on developing climate change and resource development scenarios for the Nechako watershed in British Columbia. Thirty-two stakeholders from various sectors attended the workshop to create four scenarios for the watershed in 2050 based on combinations of high/low climate change and resource development. The scenarios envisioned impacts on natural, social, and economic systems. The report findings will help facilitate knowledge-sharing, long-term planning, and climate action in the region.
This document proposes a stepwise approach to conducting a water-energy-food nexus assessment. The assessment aims to understand interactions between water, energy and food systems in a given context and evaluate the performance of interventions. The assessment involves analyzing the current context, applying specific tools to quantify impacts, and assessing interventions' resource use efficiency and productivity versus context status. Key stakeholders should be engaged throughout to build consensus on strategic issues across sectors and scales. The assessment helps inform nexus-related strategies, policies, planning and institutional responses.
Key Messages and Outcomes from the Good Governance discussions at the 6th Wor...OECD Governance
This report summarises key messages and outcomes from the Good Governance discussions at the 6th World Water Forum, Marseille 2012. It provides brief overviews of each sessions as well as recommendations and commitments formulated during the Closing session of the “Good Governance” Group to support the implementation of the agreed targets up to the 7th World Water Forum, to be held in 2015 in Korea.
For more information see www.oecd.org/gov/water
Blue economy-_sharing_success_stories_to_inspire_change-2015blue_economy_sha...nabila berroual
Oceans are vital, not only to a wide array of biodiversity and
ecosystems, but also to the food chains, livelihoods and climate
regulation for a human population heading towards nine billion people.
That is why this report shares stories that illustrate how economic
indicators and development strategies can better reflect the true value
of such wide spread benefits and potentially even build on them.
UNEP Handbook: Sustainable Consumption and Production for Poverty Alleviation David Vicent
UNEP Excellent papers about how to balance production and consuption specially in Poverty areas, as a basis for sustainable development and community based tourism programmes.
This document summarizes interviews conducted with 26 stakeholders involved in international climate finance. Three key pre-conditions for effective climate finance were identified: 1) Mainstreaming climate change into development planning, budgeting and cooperation; 2) Establishing national transparency and accountability systems; and 3) Building capacity and stakeholder engagement. While recipients, providers, and supporters recognized these pre-conditions, views varied on issues like the use of country systems and the role of national climate funds. Overall, the interviews revealed both shared understandings and differences in priorities among stakeholders regarding how to deliver international climate finance most effectively.
The document provides a summary of the activities and contributions of the GWP Technical Committee Chair, Mohamed AIT KADI, in 2010-2011. It discusses the recruitment of new members, development of a knowledge chain concept, initiatives to develop a 2010-2012 roadmap, participation in conferences and panels, priority thematic areas, and planned publications for 2011-2012. It also provides an overview of the Integrated Drought Management Programme, a joint programme between GWP and WMO.
Western Balkan Countries Assessment of Capacities for Low-carbon and Climate ...UNDP Eurasia
The survey assessed capacities for low-carbon and climate resilient development in Western Balkan countries. It found that while some institutional capacities are in place, further improvements are needed. Specifically:
1) Coordination of climate change policies needs strengthening, as national coordination mechanisms are not fully functional in most countries.
2) Capacities for low-carbon development and reporting on climate actions need enhancing, as few countries have submitted plans like Nationally Appropriate Mitigation Actions.
3) Financial and human resources for climate actions are lacking, posing a key barrier to implementation. Monitoring and evaluation systems also need strengthening.
The survey concludes regional cooperation could help address gaps, but performance of existing mechanisms needs improving based on
This document analyzes trends in green investments using two approaches - the global public goods approach and the global value chain approach. The global public goods approach emphasizes shared responsibility for the environment and uses protected areas to conserve biodiversity. The global value chain approach integrates environmental protection into business operations by viewing nature as a production factor. The document reviews reports from the Asian Development Bank, KfW, Coca-Cola, and Unilever to discover that the global value chain approach is more common. This has implications for organizations like WWF to fill gaps in funding for global public goods.
This document summarizes the outcomes of a program that used participatory scenario development (PSD) workshops to build capacity on climate change issues in Tajikistan. The workshops engaged 124 stakeholders across 5 cities to identify climate impacts, adaptation needs, and priorities. Participants saw communities as having low adaptive capacity due to challenges like limited basic services, agriculture difficulties, and natural hazards exacerbated by climate change. They suggested a range of adaptation actions focused on infrastructure, ecosystems, capacity building, and protecting vulnerable groups. Key recommendations included developing a national climate strategy, coordinating agencies, investing in local governments, and ensuring synergies between climate adaptation and development goals. Infrastructure improvements, ecosystem-based measures, and continued capacity building were seen as important for
Norway is one of the leading producers of farmed Atlantic salmon, accounting for over 60% of global production. While salmon farming is an important industry for Norway, rapid growth has led to environmental sustainability challenges. The document discusses three emerging technologies - recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), open containment offshore systems, and closed containment coastal cages - that have potential to address these challenges. It also presents a model for assessing the environmental impact of different salmon farming methods and identifies opportunities and barriers to advancing more sustainable technologies, such as adapting regulations, dedicated financing, independent research, and influencing consumer behavior.
This document outlines a research, development and innovation strategy for Queensland water modelling from 2021-2024. It identifies four priority regions and four priority topics to focus efforts and investment. The priority topics are building trust and confidence, landscape rehabilitation and resilience, climate change and variability, and model improvement and integration. For each topic, priority actions are listed with examples of potential projects. The strategy aims to build on the work of the previous 2018-2020 strategy and address recommendations from a critical review of climate change and water modelling in Queensland.
Technical Committee Chair's report by Dr Mohamed Ait-Kadi - CP meeting Day 1Global Water Partnership
The chair of the Technical Committee provided a report on the committee's activities in 2010-2011. Key points included:
1) Three new members were recruited and a "knowledge chain" concept was developed to better engage partners.
2) Priority thematic areas of equity/IWRM, climate change and water/food security, transboundary cooperation, and urban water management were identified.
3) Several publications and workshops were held addressing these themes, bringing together practitioners and policymakers from regions around the world.
This document provides an executive summary and contents section of a case study report on the negotiation, ratification, and implementation of multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs) in Pacific Island countries. It was written by researchers from the United Nations University (UNU) and South Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) to analyze how MEAs are addressed at the national level in Pacific Island states and identify opportunities for improved coordination and synergies. The report contains information on the MEAs relevant to Pacific Island parties, the challenges they face in MEA processes, and perspectives on strengthening environmental governance in the future.
Ocean renewable energy development in southeast asiaAraz Taeihagh
The Southeast Asian region (SEA) is surrounded by ocean space, from which there is a vast potential to harness
energy. Wave, tidal energy, and ocean thermal energy conversion could be tapped, to provide alternative sources
of clean and dependable energy in the region. This article contributes to the growing academic literature on
ocean renewable energy (ORE) in SEA by improving understanding of the opportunities and challenges of ORE
development in the region, beyond its technical aspects. It conducts a critical analysis of the socio-political aspects
of ORE development at a regional scale, which have been less studied in the existing literature. Aside from
providing a sustainable energy source, the development of the ORE sector could provide socio-economic benefits
to SEA countries through employment opportunities, inter-industry learning, inbound investments and
improving economic resilience. However, these benefits can only be maximised if the costs of deployment,
maintenance and repair are reduced, the impact to the marine environment is taken into consideration and issues
of public acceptance are addressed. Beyond a cost–benefit analysis, this study critically assesses the unintended
risks and consequences of ORE technologies and activities in the region and recommends different policy strategies
to mitigate them. It concludes that for the region to reap the benefits of ORE, a coordinated approach
among different stakeholders (technology developers, policymakers, and end-users) is needed to minimise the
risks and unintended consequences.
Keynote presentation at HydroMedIT, Volos Nov 2018. Exploration of rationale for, and science approach required, for ecosystem based fisheries management
Facilitating regional governance arrangements in the Wider Caribbean RegionIwl Pcu
This document summarizes how the Caribbean Large Marine Ecosystem Project (CLME Project) facilitated regional governance arrangements in the Wider Caribbean Region. It discusses how the project (1) evaluated existing regional cooperation arrangements in its Transboundary Diagnostic Analysis; (2) took these arrangements into account in its design; and (3) engaged with the over 25 relevant regional organizations. The project used Ostrom's Institutional Analysis Framework and developed a multi-level regional governance framework to explore the roles and relationships between organizations. Ultimately, the project's Strategic Action Program was designed around strengthening regional governance without taking on a governance role itself.
Facilitating regional governance arrangements in the Wider Caribbean RegionIwl Pcu
This document summarizes how the Caribbean Large Marine Ecosystem Project (CLME Project) facilitated regional governance arrangements in the Wider Caribbean Region. It discusses how the project (1) evaluated existing regional cooperation arrangements in its Transboundary Diagnostic Analysis; (2) took these arrangements into account in its design; and (3) engaged with the over 25 relevant regional organizations. The project used Ostrom's Institutional Analysis Framework and developed a multi-level regional governance framework to structure its approach. Ultimately, the project's Strategic Action Program was designed around strengthening regional cooperation through this governance framework rather than taking on a regional governance role itself.
Report of the expert workshop on 11 12 september 2008Dr Lendy Spires
- The document summarizes key insights from an expert workshop on policy options for addressing rapid changes in the Arctic marine environment.
- Participants agreed that current research and monitoring efforts are inadequate and lack coordination. International cooperation is needed.
- Existing Arctic governance is fragmented and does not adequately address challenges like increasing shipping, resource extraction, and effects on indigenous communities.
- Options for improved governance include strengthening existing frameworks like the Arctic Council or adopting a new comprehensive international agreement.
Mediterranean Sea: The GEF Strategic Partnership for the Mediterranean LME (L...Iwl Pcu
Alex Lascaratos
GEF/PDF-B Project Manager
Presentation during the focused learning discussion SAP Implementation at the 4th GEF Biennial International Waters Conference.
5th International Disaster and Risk Conference IDRC 2014 Integrative Risk Management - The role of science, technology & practice 24-28 August 2014 in Davos, Switzerland
This document provides guidance for using the Management Effectiveness Tracking Tool (METT) to assess protected area sites. The METT was developed by the World Bank and WWF to evaluate progress toward improving management effectiveness of protected areas.
The guidance discusses the purpose and structure of the METT. It is intended to be a simple, rapid assessment tool completed by protected area managers. The METT is based on the World Commission on Protected Areas framework and assesses six elements of management effectiveness: context, planning, inputs, processes, outputs, and outcomes.
The guidance outlines how to complete the two sections of the METT - the datasheets and assessment form. The datasheets collect site information and identify threats. The
This document outlines key aspects of participatory scenario development (PSD) workshops for assessing capacities and raising awareness about climate change in Tajikistan. It defines scenarios as plausible descriptions of how the future may develop based on current trends and signals. PSD workshops actively engage stakeholders in developing scenarios in order to leverage their practical knowledge, identify new challenges, and ensure diverse perspectives are incorporated. The document provides an overview of the structure and sessions of a sample PSD workshop, including preparing stakeholders to assess needs, gaps, and adaptation options within the context of different scenarios. It also discusses organizing and reporting on the workshop.
The document summarizes the BONUS-MIRACLE project, which received EU funding to identify new governance configurations to reduce nutrient enrichment and flood risks in the Baltic Sea region. The project will involve stakeholders in workshops to identify "win-win" solutions to meet different policy goals. Researchers will provide scientific support through modeling scenarios of impacts on water quality and flows, as well as policy and economic analyses. Case studies will be conducted in four areas dealing with issues like flooding, nutrient levels, and biodiversity conservation. The project is led by Linkoping University and involves partners from Sweden, Germany, Poland, Latvia, Denmark.
Fact-Based Regulation for Environmental Protection in Shale Gas DevelopmentMarcellus Drilling News
Study released in Feb 2012 by the Energy Institute at the University of Texas which looks at the science of hydraulic fracturing and a potential link between fracking and groundwater contamination. The study's conclusion: there is no link. Fracking itself does not contaminate groundwater. There are legitimate concerns about drilling, but those issues exist in conventional drilling--they are not specific to fracking.
The wealth of scientific data to support FOLU Net Sinks 2030CIFOR-ICRAF
This document contains summaries of the work packages for a project on forests and climate. It discusses generating data to support transparency frameworks and developing refined emission factors for key ecosystems like peatlands. It also outlines mapping REDD+ finance mechanisms in Indonesia and analyzing how safeguards and rights-based approaches can be implemented. The final work package aims to integrate findings across work packages to propose interventions and increase stakeholder engagement through a diagnostic framework and policy scenarios.
The document provides a summary of the activities and contributions of the GWP Technical Committee Chair, Mohamed AIT KADI, in 2010-2011. It discusses the recruitment of new members, development of a knowledge chain concept, initiatives to develop a 2010-2012 roadmap, participation in conferences and panels, priority thematic areas, and planned publications for 2011-2012. It also provides an overview of the Integrated Drought Management Programme, a joint programme between GWP and WMO.
Western Balkan Countries Assessment of Capacities for Low-carbon and Climate ...UNDP Eurasia
The survey assessed capacities for low-carbon and climate resilient development in Western Balkan countries. It found that while some institutional capacities are in place, further improvements are needed. Specifically:
1) Coordination of climate change policies needs strengthening, as national coordination mechanisms are not fully functional in most countries.
2) Capacities for low-carbon development and reporting on climate actions need enhancing, as few countries have submitted plans like Nationally Appropriate Mitigation Actions.
3) Financial and human resources for climate actions are lacking, posing a key barrier to implementation. Monitoring and evaluation systems also need strengthening.
The survey concludes regional cooperation could help address gaps, but performance of existing mechanisms needs improving based on
This document analyzes trends in green investments using two approaches - the global public goods approach and the global value chain approach. The global public goods approach emphasizes shared responsibility for the environment and uses protected areas to conserve biodiversity. The global value chain approach integrates environmental protection into business operations by viewing nature as a production factor. The document reviews reports from the Asian Development Bank, KfW, Coca-Cola, and Unilever to discover that the global value chain approach is more common. This has implications for organizations like WWF to fill gaps in funding for global public goods.
This document summarizes the outcomes of a program that used participatory scenario development (PSD) workshops to build capacity on climate change issues in Tajikistan. The workshops engaged 124 stakeholders across 5 cities to identify climate impacts, adaptation needs, and priorities. Participants saw communities as having low adaptive capacity due to challenges like limited basic services, agriculture difficulties, and natural hazards exacerbated by climate change. They suggested a range of adaptation actions focused on infrastructure, ecosystems, capacity building, and protecting vulnerable groups. Key recommendations included developing a national climate strategy, coordinating agencies, investing in local governments, and ensuring synergies between climate adaptation and development goals. Infrastructure improvements, ecosystem-based measures, and continued capacity building were seen as important for
Norway is one of the leading producers of farmed Atlantic salmon, accounting for over 60% of global production. While salmon farming is an important industry for Norway, rapid growth has led to environmental sustainability challenges. The document discusses three emerging technologies - recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), open containment offshore systems, and closed containment coastal cages - that have potential to address these challenges. It also presents a model for assessing the environmental impact of different salmon farming methods and identifies opportunities and barriers to advancing more sustainable technologies, such as adapting regulations, dedicated financing, independent research, and influencing consumer behavior.
This document outlines a research, development and innovation strategy for Queensland water modelling from 2021-2024. It identifies four priority regions and four priority topics to focus efforts and investment. The priority topics are building trust and confidence, landscape rehabilitation and resilience, climate change and variability, and model improvement and integration. For each topic, priority actions are listed with examples of potential projects. The strategy aims to build on the work of the previous 2018-2020 strategy and address recommendations from a critical review of climate change and water modelling in Queensland.
Technical Committee Chair's report by Dr Mohamed Ait-Kadi - CP meeting Day 1Global Water Partnership
The chair of the Technical Committee provided a report on the committee's activities in 2010-2011. Key points included:
1) Three new members were recruited and a "knowledge chain" concept was developed to better engage partners.
2) Priority thematic areas of equity/IWRM, climate change and water/food security, transboundary cooperation, and urban water management were identified.
3) Several publications and workshops were held addressing these themes, bringing together practitioners and policymakers from regions around the world.
This document provides an executive summary and contents section of a case study report on the negotiation, ratification, and implementation of multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs) in Pacific Island countries. It was written by researchers from the United Nations University (UNU) and South Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) to analyze how MEAs are addressed at the national level in Pacific Island states and identify opportunities for improved coordination and synergies. The report contains information on the MEAs relevant to Pacific Island parties, the challenges they face in MEA processes, and perspectives on strengthening environmental governance in the future.
Ocean renewable energy development in southeast asiaAraz Taeihagh
The Southeast Asian region (SEA) is surrounded by ocean space, from which there is a vast potential to harness
energy. Wave, tidal energy, and ocean thermal energy conversion could be tapped, to provide alternative sources
of clean and dependable energy in the region. This article contributes to the growing academic literature on
ocean renewable energy (ORE) in SEA by improving understanding of the opportunities and challenges of ORE
development in the region, beyond its technical aspects. It conducts a critical analysis of the socio-political aspects
of ORE development at a regional scale, which have been less studied in the existing literature. Aside from
providing a sustainable energy source, the development of the ORE sector could provide socio-economic benefits
to SEA countries through employment opportunities, inter-industry learning, inbound investments and
improving economic resilience. However, these benefits can only be maximised if the costs of deployment,
maintenance and repair are reduced, the impact to the marine environment is taken into consideration and issues
of public acceptance are addressed. Beyond a cost–benefit analysis, this study critically assesses the unintended
risks and consequences of ORE technologies and activities in the region and recommends different policy strategies
to mitigate them. It concludes that for the region to reap the benefits of ORE, a coordinated approach
among different stakeholders (technology developers, policymakers, and end-users) is needed to minimise the
risks and unintended consequences.
Keynote presentation at HydroMedIT, Volos Nov 2018. Exploration of rationale for, and science approach required, for ecosystem based fisheries management
Facilitating regional governance arrangements in the Wider Caribbean RegionIwl Pcu
This document summarizes how the Caribbean Large Marine Ecosystem Project (CLME Project) facilitated regional governance arrangements in the Wider Caribbean Region. It discusses how the project (1) evaluated existing regional cooperation arrangements in its Transboundary Diagnostic Analysis; (2) took these arrangements into account in its design; and (3) engaged with the over 25 relevant regional organizations. The project used Ostrom's Institutional Analysis Framework and developed a multi-level regional governance framework to explore the roles and relationships between organizations. Ultimately, the project's Strategic Action Program was designed around strengthening regional governance without taking on a governance role itself.
Facilitating regional governance arrangements in the Wider Caribbean RegionIwl Pcu
This document summarizes how the Caribbean Large Marine Ecosystem Project (CLME Project) facilitated regional governance arrangements in the Wider Caribbean Region. It discusses how the project (1) evaluated existing regional cooperation arrangements in its Transboundary Diagnostic Analysis; (2) took these arrangements into account in its design; and (3) engaged with the over 25 relevant regional organizations. The project used Ostrom's Institutional Analysis Framework and developed a multi-level regional governance framework to structure its approach. Ultimately, the project's Strategic Action Program was designed around strengthening regional cooperation through this governance framework rather than taking on a regional governance role itself.
Report of the expert workshop on 11 12 september 2008Dr Lendy Spires
- The document summarizes key insights from an expert workshop on policy options for addressing rapid changes in the Arctic marine environment.
- Participants agreed that current research and monitoring efforts are inadequate and lack coordination. International cooperation is needed.
- Existing Arctic governance is fragmented and does not adequately address challenges like increasing shipping, resource extraction, and effects on indigenous communities.
- Options for improved governance include strengthening existing frameworks like the Arctic Council or adopting a new comprehensive international agreement.
Mediterranean Sea: The GEF Strategic Partnership for the Mediterranean LME (L...Iwl Pcu
Alex Lascaratos
GEF/PDF-B Project Manager
Presentation during the focused learning discussion SAP Implementation at the 4th GEF Biennial International Waters Conference.
5th International Disaster and Risk Conference IDRC 2014 Integrative Risk Management - The role of science, technology & practice 24-28 August 2014 in Davos, Switzerland
This document provides guidance for using the Management Effectiveness Tracking Tool (METT) to assess protected area sites. The METT was developed by the World Bank and WWF to evaluate progress toward improving management effectiveness of protected areas.
The guidance discusses the purpose and structure of the METT. It is intended to be a simple, rapid assessment tool completed by protected area managers. The METT is based on the World Commission on Protected Areas framework and assesses six elements of management effectiveness: context, planning, inputs, processes, outputs, and outcomes.
The guidance outlines how to complete the two sections of the METT - the datasheets and assessment form. The datasheets collect site information and identify threats. The
This document outlines key aspects of participatory scenario development (PSD) workshops for assessing capacities and raising awareness about climate change in Tajikistan. It defines scenarios as plausible descriptions of how the future may develop based on current trends and signals. PSD workshops actively engage stakeholders in developing scenarios in order to leverage their practical knowledge, identify new challenges, and ensure diverse perspectives are incorporated. The document provides an overview of the structure and sessions of a sample PSD workshop, including preparing stakeholders to assess needs, gaps, and adaptation options within the context of different scenarios. It also discusses organizing and reporting on the workshop.
The document summarizes the BONUS-MIRACLE project, which received EU funding to identify new governance configurations to reduce nutrient enrichment and flood risks in the Baltic Sea region. The project will involve stakeholders in workshops to identify "win-win" solutions to meet different policy goals. Researchers will provide scientific support through modeling scenarios of impacts on water quality and flows, as well as policy and economic analyses. Case studies will be conducted in four areas dealing with issues like flooding, nutrient levels, and biodiversity conservation. The project is led by Linkoping University and involves partners from Sweden, Germany, Poland, Latvia, Denmark.
Fact-Based Regulation for Environmental Protection in Shale Gas DevelopmentMarcellus Drilling News
Study released in Feb 2012 by the Energy Institute at the University of Texas which looks at the science of hydraulic fracturing and a potential link between fracking and groundwater contamination. The study's conclusion: there is no link. Fracking itself does not contaminate groundwater. There are legitimate concerns about drilling, but those issues exist in conventional drilling--they are not specific to fracking.
The wealth of scientific data to support FOLU Net Sinks 2030CIFOR-ICRAF
This document contains summaries of the work packages for a project on forests and climate. It discusses generating data to support transparency frameworks and developing refined emission factors for key ecosystems like peatlands. It also outlines mapping REDD+ finance mechanisms in Indonesia and analyzing how safeguards and rights-based approaches can be implemented. The final work package aims to integrate findings across work packages to propose interventions and increase stakeholder engagement through a diagnostic framework and policy scenarios.
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Recent publications from the Fridtjof Nansen Institute
1. Recent publications from the Fridtjof Nansen Institute (FNI)
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CLIMATE CHANGE
=================================================
Tor Håkon Inderberg, Siri Eriksen, Karen O'Brien and Linda Sygna (eds)
Climate Change Adaptation and Development: Changing Paradigms and Practices
London, Routledge, 2015, 295 p.
Climate change poses multiple challenges to development. It affects lives and livelihoods,
infrastructure and institutions, as well as beliefs, cultures and identities. There is a growing
recognition that the social dimensions of vulnerability and adaptation now need to move to the
forefront of development policies and practices. This book presents case studies showing that
climate change is as much a problem of development as for development, with many of the risks
closely linked to past, present and future development pathways. Development policies and
practices can play a key role in addressing climate change, but it is critical to question to what extent
such actions and interventions reproduce, rather than address, the social and political structures and
development pathways driving vulnerability. The chapters emphasise that adaptation is about much
more than a set of projects or interventions to reduce specific impacts of climate change; it is about
living with change while also transforming the processes that contribute to vulnerability in the first
place. This book will help students in the field of climate change and development to make sense of
adaptation as a social process, and it will provide practitioners, policymakers and researchers
working at the interface between climate change and development with useful insights for
approaching adaptation as part of a larger transformation to sustainability.
> More information about the book: http://www.routledge.com/books/details/9781138025981/
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LAW OF THE SEA AND MARINE AFFAIRS
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Anders Grønstad Friisk
Arctic Coastal State Jurisdiction in an Era of Climate Change. Vessel-Source Oil Pollution and
International Shipping in Norwegian and Russian Arctic Waters.
FNI Report 12/2014. Lysaker, FNI, 2014, 54 p.
The main objective of this report is to discuss whether the contemporary international legal
framework grants the coastal States of Norway and Russia adequate jurisdiction to prevent, reduce
and control vessel-source oil pollution from foreign commercial ships navigating off the coast of
Northern Norway and in the Northern Sea Route. It gives an introduction to the characteristics of the
Arctic marine environment, climate change and Arctic navigation, as well as a theoretical overview
over the contemporary international legal framework on coastal State jurisdiction under UNCLOS and
MARPOL 73/78. The report devotes special attention to the interpretation and application of Art. 234
UNCLOS concerning its geographical and temporal scope in Norwegian and Russian ‘ice-covered
areas’. A separate part is devoted to the latest drafts of the emerging Polar Code, currently being
negotiated under the auspices of the International Maritime Organization, and discusses whether it
will affect the existing jurisdictional powers under the current legal regime.
2. > Download the report here: http://www.fni.no/doc&pdf/FNI-R1214.pdf
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BIODIVERSITY AND GENETIC RESOURCES
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Tone Winge
Linking access and benefit-sharing for crop genetic resources to climate change adaptation
Plant Genetic Resources, Online 15.12.2014. DOI: 10.1017/S1479262114001038, 17 p.
This article links the concept of access and benefit-sharing as it pertains to crop genetic resources to
climate change adaptation and argues that systems for access and benefit-sharing can, and should,
be designed to contribute to climate change adaptation for agriculture. The access and benefit-
sharing provisions of the two international agreements that together provide the international legal
framework for access and benefit-sharing – the Convention on Biological Diversity (with its Nagoya
Protocol) and the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture – are
presented and analysed. How these agreements are implemented is central to adaptation, as the
effects of climate change threaten crop genetic resources and future adaptive capacity, and, if
properly maintained and utilized, crop genetic resources will be essential to climate change
adaptation across the globe. This article, therefore, argues that an important adaptation strategy
linked to such implementation is to direct benefit-sharing for crop genetic resources towards
adaptation efforts and to ensure facilitated and efficient access to crop genetic resources for
adaptation purposes. Some options for how this can be pursued at both the international and
national level are offered.
> Access the article here: http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/S1479262114001038
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Kristin Rosendal and Steinar Andresen
Realizing Access and Benefit Sharing from Use of Genetic Resources Between Diverging
International Regimes: The Scope for Leadership
International Environmental Agreements, Online 09.12.2014. DOI: 10.1007/s10784-014-9271-4,
2014, 18 p.
This article examines how access and benefit sharing (ABS) in international transactions with genetic
resources can be achieved and how Norway contributes to their realization. Regarding the first
question, progress on the ground has been slow, but important principles have been agreed within
the convention on biological diversity (CBD) and its Nagoya Protocol (NP). Although domestic
legislation is adopted, key user countries remain reluctant. They argue that the ABS regime needs to
be supplemented with sector approaches within forums such as the Food and Agriculture
Organization. In principle, this may sound logical, but sector approaches may risk undermining the
ABS regime of the CBD/NP. The principle of access is more user-oriented and benefit sharing is
weaker in the relevant FAO negotiations. Against this background, the future practical significance of
the ABS regime remains uncertain. Norway has played an important leadership role in ABS within the
CBD/NP framework. This stems in part from ‘fortunate circumstances’, as Norway has relatively few
stakes in this issue area, but also includes strong normative elements: The Norwegian position has
also been solidified by good coordination and strong institutional capacity among the actors
involved. However, there are indications of a growing split in the Norwegian position along sector
lines. We do not yet have sufficient empirical evidence that this is the case; but if it is, achieving an
effective ABS regime may be even more difficult.
3. > Access the article here: http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10784-014-9271-4
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Andreas Røise Myhrvold
Power to Protect? Participation in Decentralized Conservation Management. The Case of
Kangchenjunga Conservation Area, Nepal
FNI Report 16/2014. Lysaker, FNI, 2014, 98 p.
This report is based on a case study of participation in and decentralized management of
Kangchenjunga Conservation Area (KCA) in north-eastern Nepal.
The report provides a broad theoretical framework for analysing management practices in KCA and
the potential consequences for balancing conservation objectives and local development aspirations,
with a focus on participation in and decentralization of PA management, common pool resource
theory and a three-dimensional approach to power analysis.
The key findings are that KCA can be considered the most decentralized PA in Nepal, but that it does
not constitute a fully decentralized PA, as substantial powers and rights are retained by the
government conservation authority and the previous implementing institution. Moreover, although
broad popular participation has been achieved in KCA, participation in the area does not amount to
the highest forms or ladders of participation presented in theory-based contributions on the subject.
This is linked to the degree of devolution of power in the decentralized management framework.
Finally, the report discusses the links between the decentralized management framework and the
balancing of conservation and development in the area under study. It identifies several possible
challenges for reconciling conservation and development, and argues that it is still too early to assess
whether the system will prove sustainable in conservational, managerial and financial terms.
> Download the report here: http://www.fni.no/doc&pdf/FNI-R1614.pdf
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ARCTIC AND RUSSIAN POLITICS
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Leiv Lunde
High North - Increasing Tension?: A Nordic Perspective
In D.S. Hamilton, A. Simonyi and D.L. Cagan (eds), Advancing U.S.-Nordic-Baltic Security Cooperation.
Washington DC (USA), Center for Transatlantic Relations, 2014, pp. 189-198.
> Download the chapter here: http://transatlantic.sais-jhu.edu/publications/books/Advancing_U.S.-
Nordic-Baltic_Security_Cooperation/Chapter_16_Leiv_Lunde.pdf
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EUROPEAN ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL POLITICS
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Elin Lerum Boasson and Jørgen Wettestad
Policy invention and entrepreneurship: Bankrolling the burying of carbon in the EU
Global Environmental Change, Vol 29, 2014, pp. 404-412.
4. This article presents the case of a policy invention where various kinds of entrepreneurship and a
window of opportunity played important roles. In 2008 the EU adopted a new Carbon Capture and
Storage (CCS) policy with an inventive funding instrument at its core: the NER 300 fund, based on
revenues from the auctioning of emissions trading allowances. Thus far, the literature on policy
entrepreneurs has focused more on success factors that enable particular persons to be especially
influential than on the defining characteristics of entrepreneurship. We contribute to the literature
on entrepreneurship and windows of opportunity by distinguishing two entrepreneurial techniques –
framing and procedural engineering – and two categories of commitment – ‘tortoise’ and carpe
diem. We conclude that ‘tortoises’ who contributed to creating the broad and general climate policy
window paved the way for issue-specific carpe diemers who promoted the more specific NER 300
policy invention. Furthermore, we distinguish and discuss four different entrepreneurship
mechanisms that may influence policy invention processes.
> Access the article here: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.gloenvcha.2014.09.010
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Jørgen Wettestad
Do New EU Agencies Mean Decreased National Powers? The Case of Chemicals and Norway.
FNI Report 14/2014. Lysaker, FNI, 2014, 17 p.
An important aspect of changing EU governance is the expanding role of regulatory agencies. These
agencies have been held to reduce the role of member states in policy-making, shifting powers to the
EU level and the intricate technical processes there. For Norway as an EEA country, there are
additional, specific formal barriers, like lack of voting rights and being barred from certain lead
positions. EU enlargement and the further diversification of member-state interests have been
assumed to complicate matters for Norway even further. However, closer scrutiny of the role of
Norway in the chemicals agency ECHA challenges this gloomy picture. Compared to pre-ECHA days,
where Norway had to hope that the EU Commission would to pick up domestic priorities and act on
them, ECHA and the new phase of EU chemicals governance has given Norway room for directly
proposing and steering through new legislation. As examined here, the case of mercury regulation is
the jewel in the crown for these new possibilities so far.
Download the report here: http://www.fni.no/doc&pdf/FNI-R1414.pdf
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Jon Birger Skjærseth
Implementing EU Climate and Energy Policies in Poland: From Europeanization to Polonization?
FNI Report 8/2014. Lysaker, FNI, 2014, 57 p.
This report examines Poland’s implementation of the EU climate and energy policy package to attain
2020 goals: the extent to which and how these policies have been implemented to date, why and
with what consequences for Poland’s positions on new EU climate policies. Because unanimity is
required on new long-term climate and energy policy goals, the relationship between the EU and
Poland is crucial. Indigenous coal accounts for nearly 90% of the country’s electricity production and
50% of its total CO2 emissions. The first observation is that there have been significant
implementation problems concerning the ETS, RES and CCS Directives. The EU package cannot be
said to have been a ‘game changer’ – Poland has mainly opposed and absorbed the package to make
it fit with existing policies and energy mix. Second, implementation challenges arise from EU
adaptation pressure and ‘misfit’ with national policies, negotiating position and energy mix. Domestic
politics has also proved important: The consistency in governmental prioritization of coal, opposition
5. to climate policy by state-owned energy groups and privileged access to decision making for these
groups. Moreover, lack of willingness, ability and opportunities at the national level to transform the
linking of various policies and issues that promoted EU level agreement has made Poland increasingly
resistant to long-term EU policies. This is partly reflected in the new 2030 climate and energy policy
framework adopted by the European Council in October 2014. Still, there are some signs of changes
that may drive Poland towards a ‘greener’ pathway in the future.
> Download the report here: http://www.fni.no/doc&pdf/FNI-R0814.pdf
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CHINESE ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL POLITICS
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Emil Gjeset
Between Fragmentation and Harmony. The Political Economy of Shale Gas in China.
FNI Report 15/2014. Lysaker, FNI, 2014, 53 p.
The aim of this paper is to explore the evolution of government priorities, strategies and policies
towards the Chinese shale gas industry in the context of general theories on policy making in China’s
energy sector. The report begins with a review of the body of theory related to policy processes in
the Chinese energy sector, which describes China’s energy sector as consisting of a fragmented set of
institutions, where changes are incremental and policy making is disjointed. Flowing from this body
of work, the paper draws on Chinese official documents and interviews with industry insiders to
expose an inconsistency between the official strategy for development, market structure and
entrenched interests in maintaining the current system. It argues that the increasing urgency of
limiting coal consumption while expanding domestic natural gas production has created political
impetus behind utilizing shale gas resources. Moreover, a consensus has emerged among the most
important regulatory institutions in favor of a development strategy assimilating the US experience,
consisting of direct government support through subsidies and R&D programs, and market
deregulation and restructuring in favor of private and foreign access. However, there is a long way to
go before this initiative can become reality. First of all, due to material constraints, including complex
geological characteristics and water scarcity, shale gas extraction on the Chinese continental shelf
has been more technologically intensive, time consuming and expensive than the case in other more
favorable areas. Second, the chosen strategy faces many institutional constraints, including a heavily
regulated pricing structure, a monopolized natural gas industry, lacking environmental regulation
and a failure to incentivize foreign cooperation. The report concludes that despite coordination of
priorities and strategy among energy regulators, they have so far been unable to overcome these
institutional constraints, in part due to the strong dominance of the Chinese national oil and gas
companies and their entrenched interest in the status quo. Hence, this study argues that the
emerging shale gas industry generally supports the assumption that Chinese energy politics are
fragmented, but that the most important disjunct exists between the regulators and the NOCs,
rather than within the bureaucracy in charge of managing shale gas.
> Download the report here: http://www.fni.no/doc&pdf/FNI-R1514.pdf
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