Monday, November 25, 2013
Postscript - The Warsaw Consensus
Since our return to Minnesota COP19 has officially ended, with consensus on some key issues that will continue to pave the way toward a comprehensive international climate change agreement in Paris in 2015. A summary of the advances made in Warsaw can be found here:
http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/afp/131124/key-points-the-warsaw-consensus
COP 19 - The final day
The negotiations are the major focus at COP 19 and it has been frustrating to hear some call this COP a failure. It must be understood that figuring out a proposal for virtually every country in the world to agree
upon is a complex task, especially with a major divide between the developed
and the developing countries. Once again this year, the Friday night deadline came and went, while
negotiations continued.
As the SES delegation's time at COP 19
comes to a close, these negotiations will continue. During the days and weeks to come, the
various countries will continue to work on a legally binding agreement, addressing
financing and the loss and damage mechanism. The negotiations aren’t the only
thing we are taking away from our experience here in Warsaw. We participated in
many side events during the second week, focusing on what small groups can do
to combat climate change. Small groups have implemented their ideas in
their own communities, and some of the ideas may be implemented in other parts of the world as well. I know the SES delegation
will be able to share what we have learned through this experience with the wider
community. We will be a small group of committed students that will work to
make a difference in our community, which eventually will impact the world.
Saturday, November 23, 2013
Farewell to COP19!
Unfortunately, today was last day at COP19 for Kelly, Gillian, Mr. Johnson, and myself. There weren’t very many
side events to go to since many people were more focused on the negotiations
taking place. We had the opportunity to attend one press conference later in
the day and I have to say I found it very surprising. The panel consisted of
three young speakers that all expressed their strong opinion that this Warsaw COP has been a
failure, even though they didn’t know the outcome of the negotiations yet.
They also spoke about the walk out of 800 people that occurred on Thursday. A group of 800 people attending the COP all came together, wore similar t-shirts, and walked out of the COP. This was meant to convey their feelings of frustration toward the slow process of the COP and their overall disappointment with the COP19. It was also supposed to show how they were leaving the COP and focusing more on their local governments and change. Many were surprised by this walk out because it is now the largest “protest” the COP19 has experienced with its own NGO participants. After speaking about this event, they talked about how they considered this COP failure because of the lowering of ambitions for carbon dioxide emission reductions, specifically in Japan and Canada.
The one thing that bothered me about these speakers was that they had very black and white views regarding the conference. Instead of talking about or even considering the reasons the countries lowered their goals, the panelists deemed it a failure. Maybe it’s just because I am not a fan of such uncompromising thinking, but I found this extremely irritating. They also were very harsh towards the coal companies that emit a lot of CO2 and questioned their presence at the conference. However, many feel that it is important that they attend the conference so the companies can learn different ways to improve their methods, reduce their emissions, and even transition to different energy sources. I personally agree with this and understand that although these companies are emitting (which obviously isn’t good), they do it because there isn’t a feasible alternative in their eyes.
Although I enjoyed this press conference because I found it interesting to hear about other people’s views about what was going on, I came out a bit confused. However, through this experience I was also able to gather my own thoughts about the conference and come to the realization that much of what needs to happen doesn’t solely rely on the global decisions, but on what local communities are doing to reduce emissions and the pressure that is put on governments to implement positive action. Anything is possible when small groups of people are committed and push for change.
They also spoke about the walk out of 800 people that occurred on Thursday. A group of 800 people attending the COP all came together, wore similar t-shirts, and walked out of the COP. This was meant to convey their feelings of frustration toward the slow process of the COP and their overall disappointment with the COP19. It was also supposed to show how they were leaving the COP and focusing more on their local governments and change. Many were surprised by this walk out because it is now the largest “protest” the COP19 has experienced with its own NGO participants. After speaking about this event, they talked about how they considered this COP failure because of the lowering of ambitions for carbon dioxide emission reductions, specifically in Japan and Canada.
The one thing that bothered me about these speakers was that they had very black and white views regarding the conference. Instead of talking about or even considering the reasons the countries lowered their goals, the panelists deemed it a failure. Maybe it’s just because I am not a fan of such uncompromising thinking, but I found this extremely irritating. They also were very harsh towards the coal companies that emit a lot of CO2 and questioned their presence at the conference. However, many feel that it is important that they attend the conference so the companies can learn different ways to improve their methods, reduce their emissions, and even transition to different energy sources. I personally agree with this and understand that although these companies are emitting (which obviously isn’t good), they do it because there isn’t a feasible alternative in their eyes.
Although I enjoyed this press conference because I found it interesting to hear about other people’s views about what was going on, I came out a bit confused. However, through this experience I was also able to gather my own thoughts about the conference and come to the realization that much of what needs to happen doesn’t solely rely on the global decisions, but on what local communities are doing to reduce emissions and the pressure that is put on governments to implement positive action. Anything is possible when small groups of people are committed and push for change.
Friday, November 22, 2013
REDD+ in Indonesia
Because Nicole made a connection with Mr. Heru Prasetyo of Indonesia during the first week of COP 19, the SES delegation was invited to a high level dinner on Thursday night, celebrating the successes of REDD+ in Indonesia and discussing the transition of the program from preparedness to implementation.
The UN REDD+ Program is the United Nations Collaborative Program on Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation in Developing Countries. The high level dinner, sponsored by the Indonesian government and highlighting a new national implementation program for REDD+ in the country, was an amazing opportunity for us and we were very appreciative of the invitation. It was the first and only opportunity the seven SES student delegates had to attend a COP related program together, so we were all very excited to be able to have a chance to be with each other at such a high-level event.
The event included inspiring and informative speeches from Mr. Donald Ramotar the President of Guyana, Ms. Tine Sundtoft, Norwegian Minister of Climate and the Environment, Mr. Achim Steiner, Executive Director of UNEP, and Mr. Heru Prasetyo, Deputy Director of the Indonesian President's Delivery Unit for Development Monitoring and Oversight, among others. They spoke on behalf of their country or organization about their involvement with REDD+ in Indonesia and offered congratulations for what had been accomplished.
One presenter who has stood out during conference sessions for me has been Mr. Achim Steiner. His message at the dinner was one that connected with all of us. He spoke about the importance of looking at forest resources in a new way. Looking at a forest differently causes a shift in perception, perhaps allowing people to see forests, "not as an alternative to development, but perhaps an alternate development." There are difficult decisons that need to be made concerning forests and their role in climate change action, and he commended people with the courage to lead in facing these difficult issues. Steiner spoke about the value of leadership, and his appreciation for the people willing to lead the REDD+ initiative in Indonesia.
He reminded the audience that having a vision for something before it is tangible is hard and that those who don't always look like they're leading, whether that be in hallway discussions at the conference or working for five years behind the scenes to create the REDD+ program now being celebrated, are sometimes really the unspoken leaders and believers.
Norway was a focal point of the dinner because of their partnership with Indonesia and major financial contribution of one billion dollars to the the Indonesian REDD+ effort. Norway was commended for their country's contribution to the global community in addressing climate change. More countries should step up like Norway, and make tangible efforts to aid the international community in the managment of climate change impacts. There should be a shift toward funding climate change mitigation and adaptation from all nations with the means to do so. It will take a lot of work, but it in the long term is better than the alternative.
The event included inspiring and informative speeches from Mr. Donald Ramotar the President of Guyana, Ms. Tine Sundtoft, Norwegian Minister of Climate and the Environment, Mr. Achim Steiner, Executive Director of UNEP, and Mr. Heru Prasetyo, Deputy Director of the Indonesian President's Delivery Unit for Development Monitoring and Oversight, among others. They spoke on behalf of their country or organization about their involvement with REDD+ in Indonesia and offered congratulations for what had been accomplished.
One presenter who has stood out during conference sessions for me has been Mr. Achim Steiner. His message at the dinner was one that connected with all of us. He spoke about the importance of looking at forest resources in a new way. Looking at a forest differently causes a shift in perception, perhaps allowing people to see forests, "not as an alternative to development, but perhaps an alternate development." There are difficult decisons that need to be made concerning forests and their role in climate change action, and he commended people with the courage to lead in facing these difficult issues. Steiner spoke about the value of leadership, and his appreciation for the people willing to lead the REDD+ initiative in Indonesia.
He reminded the audience that having a vision for something before it is tangible is hard and that those who don't always look like they're leading, whether that be in hallway discussions at the conference or working for five years behind the scenes to create the REDD+ program now being celebrated, are sometimes really the unspoken leaders and believers.
Norway was a focal point of the dinner because of their partnership with Indonesia and major financial contribution of one billion dollars to the the Indonesian REDD+ effort. Norway was commended for their country's contribution to the global community in addressing climate change. More countries should step up like Norway, and make tangible efforts to aid the international community in the managment of climate change impacts. There should be a shift toward funding climate change mitigation and adaptation from all nations with the means to do so. It will take a lot of work, but it in the long term is better than the alternative.
Thursday, November 21, 2013
Momentum for Change
Momentum for Change, an initiative
of the UNFCCC Secretariat, recognizes positive activities and
demonstrating results. These activities are innovative and
transformative solutions addressing climate change as well as economic,
social, and
environmental challenges. These "Lighthouse Activities" are divided into
three pillars: urban poor, women for results, and financing for climate
change. During this second week of the conference, there are five events
highlighting different areas of this initiative.
After observing two of these events along with my own research, I
really thought I understood what the initiative was all about.
The event started out with this amazing line up of speakers; Mr. Ban Ki
Moon, Ms. Christiana Figueres, and Ms. Kelly Rigg among others. It wasn't just who
these people are, but what they were saying. They spoke of the
17 Lighthouse Activities winners. These activities do so many different
things to change the lives of so many all around the world. During the
event one had to take a moment to be in awe of what is happening and who was around them.
 |
| Christiana Figueres s |
Wednesday evening's event titled, “Momentum for Change: Lighthouse Showcase” put this conference in perspective for me. I understood completely what our purpose here at the conference was. These programs or activities take everything that’s happening here at COP19 to reality. They are taking all these visions and dreams to action, to that next step of changing the world. They’re showing us how to take action while government leaders are in negotiations. They truly are changing lives for the better through their own initiative. They’re not waiting around but leading, teaching and most importantly, inspiring.
Tonight I realized the true meaning of
these initiatives; after all the frustration of negotiations not making anywhere near enough progress, COP19
brings us hope and inspires us to do all that we can to make this world
better. The activities this initiative highlighted show how wise Margaret Mead was when she said, "Never doubt that a small group of
thoughtful, committed citizen can change the world; it is the only thing
that every has."
Day 2, Week 2 - The High Level Opening Ceremony
On our group's second day at the
conference, I had the amazing opportunity to observe and attend the official
Opening of the High Level Segment where negotiations and decisions are made during
the rest of this week. Mr. Donald Tusk, Prime Minister of Poland, Mr. Ban Ki-Moon, Secretary-General of the United Nations, Mr. Marcin Korolec, President of COP 19/CMP 9, Mr. John Ashe, President of the United Nations General Assembly, and Ms. Christiana Figueres, Executive Secretary of the UNFCCC all spoke at the event.
The main
purpose of this opening ceremony was to direct negotiators to the goal of this
conference in Warsaw and remind everyone of the responsibility we each hold to
create a cleaner and better environment in the world. The prime minister of
Poland was the first speaker and deeply resonated with me. Although he was
speaking in Polish, a language I do not understand at all, I could sense the
emotion and conviction through his voice and facial expressions, broadcasted on
large monitors on both sides of the stage on which he was speaking. Each person in attendance received a headphone set that translated the speaker’s words into various
languages so each individual could understand what was being said. He started out
his speech by comparing the earth to a house and stated that there is a “great
universal need for caring for our universal house: the earth”. Thinking of it
this way made me realize how crucial it is to take action and do it now;
although it seems everyone’s interests are different, no one wants to lose
their home. Mr. Tusk also brought up the fact that Copenhagen COP15 had failed
to come up with an anticipated global agreement and we didn’t want another
failure now.
This sense of urgency was echoed throughout each of the speakers. Iceland and the rapid melting rate of its glaciers was introduced by Mr. Ban Ki-Moon, showing how extreme the impacts of climate change are currently and where they are heading. He specifically emphasized this sense of urgency by mentioning the importance of our legacy. He urged the audience to think in terms of their love for their neighbor and their neighbor’s neighbor, as well as their children and their children’s children; how will the decisions and efforts at the COP affect them? Mr. Marcin Korolec made sure the audience knew that “the clock is ticking” for the earth as well as for the negotiators as the deadline for an international agreement at the 2015 COP21 Conference in Paris approaches. Not only did he speak to us on needing to implement our ideas faster so that there will be less of a rush in 2015, but also because the world is becoming increasingly frustrated with the pace at which decisions are, or aren’t, being made. This is because they recognize the urgency for action and are now creating awareness in the world outside of the UN Climate Change Conference. Now is the time to take action- today! Korolec related his own message with the idea of legacy by ending his statements with, “do not do it for yourself, do it for the children in the present and yet to come”. Ms. Figueres concluded the Opening speeches by also emphasizing the need for action. She pointed out the nations that have been severely affected by climate change effects and their compelling call. She reminded us that we are responsible for a response to that call and identifying the decisions and actions that must be taken. One sentence was particularly powerful: “The cost of inaction has never been higher”.
While listening to these strong and inspirational speakers in my small seat hundreds of feet away from the podium, I could feel myself getting a bit anxious even though I have no part in the official negotiations. What I do have a part in though is taking back these experiences and making my own community aware of the risks of climate change and how we can best solve them. By attending this conference I took on some of that responsibility. As the Prime Minister of Poland said when comparing climate change consensus to soccer, “every player competes with his colleagues on the yard, but in fact the players only win the game as a team”. May we all take these wise words to heart and realize that we must discuss with one another the different ways in which we can address climate change in order to learn from each other, but the entire community must also work together if it is to achieve the greater goal of reducing emissions and eliminating the affects of climate change.
This sense of urgency was echoed throughout each of the speakers. Iceland and the rapid melting rate of its glaciers was introduced by Mr. Ban Ki-Moon, showing how extreme the impacts of climate change are currently and where they are heading. He specifically emphasized this sense of urgency by mentioning the importance of our legacy. He urged the audience to think in terms of their love for their neighbor and their neighbor’s neighbor, as well as their children and their children’s children; how will the decisions and efforts at the COP affect them? Mr. Marcin Korolec made sure the audience knew that “the clock is ticking” for the earth as well as for the negotiators as the deadline for an international agreement at the 2015 COP21 Conference in Paris approaches. Not only did he speak to us on needing to implement our ideas faster so that there will be less of a rush in 2015, but also because the world is becoming increasingly frustrated with the pace at which decisions are, or aren’t, being made. This is because they recognize the urgency for action and are now creating awareness in the world outside of the UN Climate Change Conference. Now is the time to take action- today! Korolec related his own message with the idea of legacy by ending his statements with, “do not do it for yourself, do it for the children in the present and yet to come”. Ms. Figueres concluded the Opening speeches by also emphasizing the need for action. She pointed out the nations that have been severely affected by climate change effects and their compelling call. She reminded us that we are responsible for a response to that call and identifying the decisions and actions that must be taken. One sentence was particularly powerful: “The cost of inaction has never been higher”.
While listening to these strong and inspirational speakers in my small seat hundreds of feet away from the podium, I could feel myself getting a bit anxious even though I have no part in the official negotiations. What I do have a part in though is taking back these experiences and making my own community aware of the risks of climate change and how we can best solve them. By attending this conference I took on some of that responsibility. As the Prime Minister of Poland said when comparing climate change consensus to soccer, “every player competes with his colleagues on the yard, but in fact the players only win the game as a team”. May we all take these wise words to heart and realize that we must discuss with one another the different ways in which we can address climate change in order to learn from each other, but the entire community must also work together if it is to achieve the greater goal of reducing emissions and eliminating the affects of climate change.
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
A high-level opportunity
Yesterday I had the opportunity to sit in on a side event of a lifetime. Getting to the room early and squeezing my way to the front for a nice seat, I found myself sitting between a professor from the University of Manchester in the United Kingdom and a Duke law student. "How many high school students are doing this in class today? One." I thought, as I realized the magnitude of the opportunity I had as a high school student sitting in a room of professionals, scholars, executives, and world leaders. I felt an extreme sense of appreciation to have been given the opportunity to be in attendance; appreciation not only for the people sitting on the panel and the things that they do and for the people who planned the side-event, but also for the teachers that have taught me about these issues and the teachers who brought me here.
The topics discussed during this session were described as using "systems as a catalyst for climate action to promote sustainable low-carbon development". Each person on the panel was from a different organization, place in the world, and involved in jobs and projects of such a wide range that I could only begin to comprehend them all with the help of the nice man sitting next to me. Everything from ozone neutral fruit in Costa Rica, to the implementation of new low energy light bulbs, to financial decisions made by the World Bank, and back again. The intricate weaving of topics and systems done by panel moderator Achim Steiner, Executive Director of UNEP, was truly skillful and really showed the relationships and how it was all connected
Due to prior obligations, Ban Ki-Moon, Secretary-General of the United Nations, arrived for the second half of the session, and the room took on a feeling of higher prestige when he arrived. He spoke about the United Nations guidelines and framework by which they can operate, and called a meeting that would be held in September of 2014 for high-level officials and world leaders to discuss climate change mitigation, adaptation, and finance.
Mr. Ban Ki-Moon, United Nations Secretary-General
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
Cheers to Week Two, Youth, and the Future!
On Monday Kelly, Jennifer, and I had the opportunity to begin our week at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference. After an introductory tour of the stadium conference center, we found a place to sit down, discuss the week's agenda, and plan our schedule for the day. After reviewing our overwhelmingly exciting and seemingly endless list of options, a side event entitled "Green and Decent Jobs for Youth - Building Synergies between Climate and Employment Policies" caught our attention. This side event was the perfect introduction to the conference for me, because it was exciting, explained possible solutions to a problem we face everyday, and left an overall hopeful feeling in the air.
The panel of 5 included the host Anabella Rosemberg, with the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC), and Dave Foster, Executive Director of the Blue-Green Alliance, from the United States, two young people representing the youth perspective, and a member of the European Union Trade Union Corporation. They discussed the concept of economic transfer to greener work places by those who are currently unemployed. These job opportunities would give them decent pay and the all the benefits that come from better quality jobs. It all seemed so simple; give unemployed youth jobs that integrate greener technology and ensure economic growth in a low carbon economy. Programs like European Youth Guarantee and Green Skills Partnerships are leading the way in providing youth employment in jobs that use sustainable practices. If employers worldwide were able to follow the lead of these organizations and other programs with similar missions to link a sustainable agenda with youth employment, not only could we create a greener future for future generations, but also a better standard of living for the people here today.
Greener jobs for youth will educate these otherwise unemployed young people to further understand climate change, while supporting and giving opportunities to youth who would otherwise not be able to find decent service jobs. This inspiring side event only grew my excitement for the rest of the events and meetings I will attend this week, and the diverse knowledge I will gain about a diverse topic that gives purpose to this entire conference.
The panel of 5 included the host Anabella Rosemberg, with the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC), and Dave Foster, Executive Director of the Blue-Green Alliance, from the United States, two young people representing the youth perspective, and a member of the European Union Trade Union Corporation. They discussed the concept of economic transfer to greener work places by those who are currently unemployed. These job opportunities would give them decent pay and the all the benefits that come from better quality jobs. It all seemed so simple; give unemployed youth jobs that integrate greener technology and ensure economic growth in a low carbon economy. Programs like European Youth Guarantee and Green Skills Partnerships are leading the way in providing youth employment in jobs that use sustainable practices. If employers worldwide were able to follow the lead of these organizations and other programs with similar missions to link a sustainable agenda with youth employment, not only could we create a greener future for future generations, but also a better standard of living for the people here today.
Greener jobs for youth will educate these otherwise unemployed young people to further understand climate change, while supporting and giving opportunities to youth who would otherwise not be able to find decent service jobs. This inspiring side event only grew my excitement for the rest of the events and meetings I will attend this week, and the diverse knowledge I will gain about a diverse topic that gives purpose to this entire conference.
Monday, November 18, 2013
Weekend excursion
This weekend there was a light schedule of COP activities so our delegation took advantage of the opportunity the schedule provided by going on an adventure to Krakow, Poland. For most of our time in Poland we are divided into two groups with a set of activities and responsibilities for each, so the weekend was a nice time for the two groups to get together and bond.
Our excursion began with a three hour train ride through the Polish countryside. After we arrived at our destination, we meandered our way through the rustic streets of Krakow where we were all taken aback by the beauty. The rest of the day consisted of exploring the city and taking in the European culture.
The next day, we had the opportunity to tour the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration and extermination camps operated by Nazi Germany during World War II. Emotions ranged from fear to sadness and anger, and yet we all seemed to be interested in broadening our knowledge and understanding of this horrific time in history. At the end of the tour and a sobering day I think everyone was able to take away an aspect of the experience that will stay with them forever.
Our excursion began with a three hour train ride through the Polish countryside. After we arrived at our destination, we meandered our way through the rustic streets of Krakow where we were all taken aback by the beauty. The rest of the day consisted of exploring the city and taking in the European culture.
The next day, we had the opportunity to tour the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration and extermination camps operated by Nazi Germany during World War II. Emotions ranged from fear to sadness and anger, and yet we all seemed to be interested in broadening our knowledge and understanding of this horrific time in history. At the end of the tour and a sobering day I think everyone was able to take away an aspect of the experience that will stay with them forever.
Sunday, November 17, 2013
For the Future & Beyond
One aspect of climate change that is hard for people to grasp is how to counteract the process. A major point that has become clear during our delegation's first week at COP 19 is that there truly is not just a single answer to the perplexing problem of a changing climate. This is not simply a matter of renewable energy or mitigation or adaptation. There is not one overarching answer to be found that will magically solve everything. We must realize that we will need to use an array of strategies to combat climate change, because every strategy that is available to us has positives and negatives, advantages and drawbacks.
Attending COP 19 this past week, I have realized that we must not only use all the strategies of mitigation and adaptation at our disposal, but also integrate the strengths of previous, current, and future generations. It is necessary for the youth of today to gain a technical understanding of the problems embedded in climate change and, with the help of older generations, come together to build a better understanding and strategy plan for years to come.
Past generations may have contributed more to the climate change problem than the youth of today, but there is no point in moping over the past. We must remember what has been done and move forward with a better adapted society, living and acting based on the knowledge of today while continuing to develop technologies that will make the future better. George Santayana once said, "Those who forget history, are doomed to repeat it." Let's take the advice of this great philosopher and realize, while we have done the earth wrong, we can all have a part in making it better. For the future and beyond.
Attending COP 19 this past week, I have realized that we must not only use all the strategies of mitigation and adaptation at our disposal, but also integrate the strengths of previous, current, and future generations. It is necessary for the youth of today to gain a technical understanding of the problems embedded in climate change and, with the help of older generations, come together to build a better understanding and strategy plan for years to come.
Past generations may have contributed more to the climate change problem than the youth of today, but there is no point in moping over the past. We must remember what has been done and move forward with a better adapted society, living and acting based on the knowledge of today while continuing to develop technologies that will make the future better. George Santayana once said, "Those who forget history, are doomed to repeat it." Let's take the advice of this great philosopher and realize, while we have done the earth wrong, we can all have a part in making it better. For the future and beyond.
Saturday, November 16, 2013
An encounter with wisdom
After going to session after session this week we saw a lot of speakers that we liked and others that we didn't. One speaker that really resonated with many of us was Mr. Heru Prasetyo of Indonesia. He is the Co-Chair of the REDD+ Task Force. He has a way of speaking that makes difficult concepts easy to understand and keeps his speeches interesting throughout. He is a very wise man.
REDD is a United Nations program that focuses on reducing carbon emissions from deforestation and forest degradation. Recently a plus was added making it REDD+ to reflect the expanded focus of the program to include conservation, sustainable management of forests, and the enhancement of forest carbon stocks.
Because our group showed a lot of interest in talking to Mr. Prasetyo, when Mr. Johnson saw him next he asked if a meeting with our group would be possible. He said yes, and that Mr. Satya Tripathi, the REDD+ Director for Indonesia, would also be accompanying him. We immediately started thinking of questions to ask Mr. Prasetyo and researching all that we could about him. We were to meet him at 3:00 pm in the Conference Center Food Court. When he got there he was very friendly and insisted on buying us something to eat. After we all had our food we started our conversation.
He first started out asking about our school because he was very intrigued that we went to an environmental high school. He asked us about our curriculum and also about the environment of Minnesota.
Mr. Prasetyo began by telling us that it all starts with us and what we do. We are the youth and even though it is difficult to think of our impact on the world, it is necessary. Mr. Tripathi told us about when he was a boy and first started to shave. He would leave the water running the entire time to wash his razor off. His mother told him that he should only turn on the water when he needed it and turn it off when he wasn't using it. He didn't believe that he was wasting water so his mother measured the amount of water he used keeping the water running and also the amount when he turned it on and off. When he turned the water on and off he used significantly less water than when he left it running. Because of this lesson, he has been turning the water off when he shaves ever since, and by his calculations, saved about 250,000 liters of water over his lifetime. He told us that we don't have to stop doing things, we just have to do them in a more environmentally friendly way.
I asked Mr. Prasetyo what his job was beyond his role as Co-Chair of the REDD+ Task Force. He got his degree in Industrial engineering and wanted to go into government work. His father told him there was no money in that type of work and that he would have to be corrupt to work with the government, but he wanted to help the people of Indonesia. He followed his father's advice and got a masters degree in business, later taking a job in the private sector, moving to an international consulting firm, and eventually rising to Managing Director of the company. He retired, and after taking some time off went to the public sector to fulfill his original goal of helping the people of Indonesia. He currently works as a deputy director for the President of Indonesia and part of his job is to oversee the development of a REDD National Implementation Plan for Indonesia.
When we asked Mr. Prasetyo about why REDD did not seem to be working as it was planned, he used an analogy between books becoming movies and progress in programs like REDD+ as they get put into action. He talked about how books that are turned into movies, like The Hobbit, have to either lose parts or have parts added for them to fit into a movie format. REDD and similar programs are like that as well because they start as a written plan but when they actually start to be implemented, people have to get rid of things and add things so that the program can work in the real world.
It was an amazing opportunity and I am grateful to Mr. Heru Prasetyo and Mr. Satya Tripathi for giving of their time to talk to us.
REDD is a United Nations program that focuses on reducing carbon emissions from deforestation and forest degradation. Recently a plus was added making it REDD+ to reflect the expanded focus of the program to include conservation, sustainable management of forests, and the enhancement of forest carbon stocks.
Because our group showed a lot of interest in talking to Mr. Prasetyo, when Mr. Johnson saw him next he asked if a meeting with our group would be possible. He said yes, and that Mr. Satya Tripathi, the REDD+ Director for Indonesia, would also be accompanying him. We immediately started thinking of questions to ask Mr. Prasetyo and researching all that we could about him. We were to meet him at 3:00 pm in the Conference Center Food Court. When he got there he was very friendly and insisted on buying us something to eat. After we all had our food we started our conversation.
Our group with Mr. Pasetyo (right) and Mr. Tripathi (second from right)
He first started out asking about our school because he was very intrigued that we went to an environmental high school. He asked us about our curriculum and also about the environment of Minnesota.
Mr. Prasetyo began by telling us that it all starts with us and what we do. We are the youth and even though it is difficult to think of our impact on the world, it is necessary. Mr. Tripathi told us about when he was a boy and first started to shave. He would leave the water running the entire time to wash his razor off. His mother told him that he should only turn on the water when he needed it and turn it off when he wasn't using it. He didn't believe that he was wasting water so his mother measured the amount of water he used keeping the water running and also the amount when he turned it on and off. When he turned the water on and off he used significantly less water than when he left it running. Because of this lesson, he has been turning the water off when he shaves ever since, and by his calculations, saved about 250,000 liters of water over his lifetime. He told us that we don't have to stop doing things, we just have to do them in a more environmentally friendly way.
I asked Mr. Prasetyo what his job was beyond his role as Co-Chair of the REDD+ Task Force. He got his degree in Industrial engineering and wanted to go into government work. His father told him there was no money in that type of work and that he would have to be corrupt to work with the government, but he wanted to help the people of Indonesia. He followed his father's advice and got a masters degree in business, later taking a job in the private sector, moving to an international consulting firm, and eventually rising to Managing Director of the company. He retired, and after taking some time off went to the public sector to fulfill his original goal of helping the people of Indonesia. He currently works as a deputy director for the President of Indonesia and part of his job is to oversee the development of a REDD National Implementation Plan for Indonesia.
When we asked Mr. Prasetyo about why REDD did not seem to be working as it was planned, he used an analogy between books becoming movies and progress in programs like REDD+ as they get put into action. He talked about how books that are turned into movies, like The Hobbit, have to either lose parts or have parts added for them to fit into a movie format. REDD and similar programs are like that as well because they start as a written plan but when they actually start to be implemented, people have to get rid of things and add things so that the program can work in the real world.
It was an amazing opportunity and I am grateful to Mr. Heru Prasetyo and Mr. Satya Tripathi for giving of their time to talk to us.
Friday, November 15, 2013
A briefing from the COP 19 President
Today the COP 19/CMP 9 President, Polish Minster of Environment Marcin Korolec, took time out of his busy schedule to hold a briefing for Observer Organizations. After being introduced by the
Chair of the meeting, Mr. Korolec gave his briefing on the ambitions of COP 19 and how they will lead to successful negotiations at the future COPs, specifically COP 21 in Paris in 2015.
There has been a lot of focus on the 2015 COP 21 conference in Paris because the Kyoto Protocol, the original legally binding international agreement to reduce carbon emissions, commitment period expired in 2012. It was supposed to be replaced with a new, legally binding agreement to reduce emissions at COP 15 in Copenhagen in 2009. For a variety of reasons the creation of a new, legally binding treaty failed and nothing with binding emissions reductions replaced the Kyoto Protocol. However, at COP 17 in Durban, South Africa, it was agreed that a new, legally binding treaty would ready by 2015, hence the high expectations from parties and observers alike.
It is because of this that Poland has insisted on transparency and inclusiveness at the COP 19 conference, in the hopes that it will lead to agreements from the Parties on structure and implementation essential to getting consensus on a new treaty in Paris at COP 21. The level of openness has been extended to us in Civil Society as well, allowing for us to sit in on informal consultations and other meetings not normally available to us.
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Once the President of the COP made his introductory remarks summarizing the goals of this COP, he opened the floor to questions from the observers, on all areas of the conference. While all of the questions were very insightful to many issues, there were definitely some that I found more interesting.
Many people at COP 19 have felt that the juxtaposition of the World Coal Association Conference in Warsaw next week is inappropriate considering the goals of this COP. However Mr. Korolec said that efforts to reduce CO2 emissions would not benefit from a good guy versus bad guy mentality. Coal has played an important part in Poland's development and is still used in the production of most of their energy. After their economy was stimulated, as a result of energy from coal, their GDP increased by 200%, which has allowed them to put financial resources toward the reduction of their own emissions.
There is also much frustration in the delegates here over lack of action after the devastating typhoon in the Philippines. It was felt by many Parties and NGOs that this should stir action in the negotiations but so far in the conference it does not seem to have added any urgency to the processes. The COP president reminded the NGOs that the UNFCCC is a Party process and, while many feel this way, not all Parties are ready for action or share the urgency for action. It is both the beauty and the curse of the UNFCCC process.
Several NGOs brought up the fact that, despite the promise of transparency, many sessions that had been previously listed as open were closed to Civil Society. The President deferred to the chair of the SBI, who did not know why so many sessions were closed to Civil Society against direct instructions to be open, but promised to investigate the situation.
While it is obvious that transparency at the conference is still something that needs to be worked on, there is definitely an effort being made. Especially by the President of the COP, which is a welcome change and a fascinating process to watch.
Chair of the meeting, Mr. Korolec gave his briefing on the ambitions of COP 19 and how they will lead to successful negotiations at the future COPs, specifically COP 21 in Paris in 2015.
There has been a lot of focus on the 2015 COP 21 conference in Paris because the Kyoto Protocol, the original legally binding international agreement to reduce carbon emissions, commitment period expired in 2012. It was supposed to be replaced with a new, legally binding agreement to reduce emissions at COP 15 in Copenhagen in 2009. For a variety of reasons the creation of a new, legally binding treaty failed and nothing with binding emissions reductions replaced the Kyoto Protocol. However, at COP 17 in Durban, South Africa, it was agreed that a new, legally binding treaty would ready by 2015, hence the high expectations from parties and observers alike.
It is because of this that Poland has insisted on transparency and inclusiveness at the COP 19 conference, in the hopes that it will lead to agreements from the Parties on structure and implementation essential to getting consensus on a new treaty in Paris at COP 21. The level of openness has been extended to us in Civil Society as well, allowing for us to sit in on informal consultations and other meetings not normally available to us.
.JPG)
Once the President of the COP made his introductory remarks summarizing the goals of this COP, he opened the floor to questions from the observers, on all areas of the conference. While all of the questions were very insightful to many issues, there were definitely some that I found more interesting.
Many people at COP 19 have felt that the juxtaposition of the World Coal Association Conference in Warsaw next week is inappropriate considering the goals of this COP. However Mr. Korolec said that efforts to reduce CO2 emissions would not benefit from a good guy versus bad guy mentality. Coal has played an important part in Poland's development and is still used in the production of most of their energy. After their economy was stimulated, as a result of energy from coal, their GDP increased by 200%, which has allowed them to put financial resources toward the reduction of their own emissions.
There is also much frustration in the delegates here over lack of action after the devastating typhoon in the Philippines. It was felt by many Parties and NGOs that this should stir action in the negotiations but so far in the conference it does not seem to have added any urgency to the processes. The COP president reminded the NGOs that the UNFCCC is a Party process and, while many feel this way, not all Parties are ready for action or share the urgency for action. It is both the beauty and the curse of the UNFCCC process.
Several NGOs brought up the fact that, despite the promise of transparency, many sessions that had been previously listed as open were closed to Civil Society. The President deferred to the chair of the SBI, who did not know why so many sessions were closed to Civil Society against direct instructions to be open, but promised to investigate the situation.
While it is obvious that transparency at the conference is still something that needs to be worked on, there is definitely an effort being made. Especially by the President of the COP, which is a welcome change and a fascinating process to watch.
Thursday, November 14, 2013
COP19 - The time for implementation is now
COP19 must be a COP of implementation, but with implementation comes the challenge of financing the projects to be implemented. So far developing countries are taking more responsibility than the developed countries of the world in taking the actions called for in the Kyoto Protocol. In reality this situation should be reversed, considering the fact that the developing countries are the countries with less money and fewer resources.
The recent global recession has made it difficult for developed countries to keep their financial commitments to fight climate change. But despite these facts, developed countries are still finding money for other "problems" such as wars and keeping other aspects of their economies running. Developed countries currently are ignoring their pledged support for the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) process. This calls for developed countries who cannot meet their carbon emissions targets through mitigation to supply money to developing countries who can then implement clean development projects in their own countries. Even though the developed countries that signed the Kyoto Protocol are obligated to mitigate their own emissions and/or supply needed money for the CDM process, they too often choose to do neither, with no consequences besides the continued lack of clean development in developing countries and the demise of our planet.
There needs to be clarification of HOW these funds will be collected and distributed because money for climate change mitigation and adaptation is rapidly drying up. Also, there must be consequences for countries who pledge money and do not follow through with either their own mitigation efforts or the funding of CDMs in developing countries. Developed countries need to start to feel a sense of urgency in the matter of a morphing climate and not ignore the problem all together.
We are all equal, and EVERYONE has the same responsibilities and the same problems. There is no time to put off the bettering of our planet that developed countries have had such a big part in worsening. The time is now, and time is money. The longer we wait, the more money will be needed to fix the problem humans have put upon themselves.
The recent global recession has made it difficult for developed countries to keep their financial commitments to fight climate change. But despite these facts, developed countries are still finding money for other "problems" such as wars and keeping other aspects of their economies running. Developed countries currently are ignoring their pledged support for the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) process. This calls for developed countries who cannot meet their carbon emissions targets through mitigation to supply money to developing countries who can then implement clean development projects in their own countries. Even though the developed countries that signed the Kyoto Protocol are obligated to mitigate their own emissions and/or supply needed money for the CDM process, they too often choose to do neither, with no consequences besides the continued lack of clean development in developing countries and the demise of our planet.
There needs to be clarification of HOW these funds will be collected and distributed because money for climate change mitigation and adaptation is rapidly drying up. Also, there must be consequences for countries who pledge money and do not follow through with either their own mitigation efforts or the funding of CDMs in developing countries. Developed countries need to start to feel a sense of urgency in the matter of a morphing climate and not ignore the problem all together.
We are all equal, and EVERYONE has the same responsibilities and the same problems. There is no time to put off the bettering of our planet that developed countries have had such a big part in worsening. The time is now, and time is money. The longer we wait, the more money will be needed to fix the problem humans have put upon themselves.
Wednesday, November 13, 2013
Peeking Behind the Curtain
From a distance it can seem like the UNFCCC is just a giant organization that magically churns out decisions that, no matter what, not everyone agrees with. Even up close at the conference it can seem like that if you don't look in the right places. But there is actually a lot work that goes into the proposals before they even go before the full assembly of the Parties.
Today I had the opportunity to sit in and watch the process up close. I attended an informal consultation of the Subsidiary Body of Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA). The group at the meeting was going over opinions and requests from delegates of various countries regarding a draft proposal on Systematic Observation. Walking in I was probably about as lost as you are right now, as I had no idea what I was getting into. I just saw it on the schedule, thought it sounded interesting and said to myself, 'Why not?'
The easiest thing to figure out was what was meant by Systematic Observations. They were talking about the need for continued research and observation of the climate, and financing of said research, in order to make informed decisions on climate change.
The informal consultation is where delegates from countries that have an opinion or interest voice their opinion on the draft of a proposal. This proposal was written by the chair of the meeting, who will take the countries remarks on the draft into consideration before creating a revised proposal to be presented and hopefully approved later in the conference. It was interesting to listen to all the requests and positions of different countries and how they were affected by climate change. It was enlightening to listen to countries like Mali and others. It was obvious that there is a need for on-going research, even if gaps in research may not seem like the most pressing issue when compared to things like adaptation and mitigation. Yet I felt frustration towards our own country, whose delegation said that because they had not received the draft until recently, the US had not had time to go through all the official government channels, and therefore they could not comment on it's content. Canada echoed the same remarks. Developing countries could make the time to fully read and respond to the report; even the European Union (EU) was able to comment. This is a modest example, but the pattern of developed countries not doing what many Parties and their delegations feel to be their share is a frustration that is echoed through out the conference.
However my excitement to simply watch the process outweighed any of my own frustrations with the process. The woman sitting next to me was from another Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) and she explained to me that at most conferences, members of civil society, like us, are not normally allowed into meetings of this level. Apparently my experience is fairly unique to the COP 19 Conference and I feel privileged to have been allowed to watch.
Today I had the opportunity to sit in and watch the process up close. I attended an informal consultation of the Subsidiary Body of Scientific and Technological Advice (SBSTA). The group at the meeting was going over opinions and requests from delegates of various countries regarding a draft proposal on Systematic Observation. Walking in I was probably about as lost as you are right now, as I had no idea what I was getting into. I just saw it on the schedule, thought it sounded interesting and said to myself, 'Why not?'
The easiest thing to figure out was what was meant by Systematic Observations. They were talking about the need for continued research and observation of the climate, and financing of said research, in order to make informed decisions on climate change.
The informal consultation is where delegates from countries that have an opinion or interest voice their opinion on the draft of a proposal. This proposal was written by the chair of the meeting, who will take the countries remarks on the draft into consideration before creating a revised proposal to be presented and hopefully approved later in the conference. It was interesting to listen to all the requests and positions of different countries and how they were affected by climate change. It was enlightening to listen to countries like Mali and others. It was obvious that there is a need for on-going research, even if gaps in research may not seem like the most pressing issue when compared to things like adaptation and mitigation. Yet I felt frustration towards our own country, whose delegation said that because they had not received the draft until recently, the US had not had time to go through all the official government channels, and therefore they could not comment on it's content. Canada echoed the same remarks. Developing countries could make the time to fully read and respond to the report; even the European Union (EU) was able to comment. This is a modest example, but the pattern of developed countries not doing what many Parties and their delegations feel to be their share is a frustration that is echoed through out the conference.
However my excitement to simply watch the process outweighed any of my own frustrations with the process. The woman sitting next to me was from another Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) and she explained to me that at most conferences, members of civil society, like us, are not normally allowed into meetings of this level. Apparently my experience is fairly unique to the COP 19 Conference and I feel privileged to have been allowed to watch.
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
Polish Independence Day!
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| (Jennifer, Gillian, & Kelly) |
Pozdrowienia!
Happy Independence Day, Poland!
Monday was the first day Kelly, Jennifer, Mr. Johnson (Gold) and I got to spend the day exploring what Warsaw has to offer. We began the day walking by the Wisla River (Vistula) and made our way to Old Town. We were instructed by the United Nations to avoid parts of the town that would have demonstrations and two parades to celebrate Polish Independence Day. One was the official parade, and the second was a riot parade that was described to us as being held by "conservative Polish Nationalists". After walking through the city during the morning we had stopped on a corner across from what appeared to be 3 groups of Polish soldiers to check the tourist book and see where our adventure should head, when a man stopped us and asked if we spoke English! He was definitely excited to tell us all about the holiday and the festivities that were about to commence. We headed in the direction the man pointed out to us and found ourselves in a large collection of people in a square lined with 6 or so cannons. We decided that this would be a good time to stop for a cup of coffee. After refreshments we wandered back to the square just in time for Polish soldiers on horseback to lead a vehicle carrying the Polish President (who would soon be speaking) with the back window down smiling to the crowd. The crowd quieted as the Polish National Anthem was played and speeches were made. As Kelly, Mr. Johnson, Jennifer and I stood in the crowd to see what would come next *BOOM!!* -- the cannons went off one after another. We stood back, overlooking cathedrals, a cross, and the Polish military, stunned by the thought that, here we were, accidentally caught up in a once in a lifetime cultural experience.
1st Day at the Conference
Monday was the opening day of the conference we came to Poland to attend, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Conference of the Parties, or "COP". The two week event is an international conference on climate change, and this year is the 19th year the conference has been held. Countries, known as "Parties", send their own delegates but there are also non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and intergovernmental organizations (IGOs).
After imagining what it would be like to go to the COP19 conference, we finally got to go and experience it for ourselves. It was quite a culture shock with so many different cultures mingling together in one place. In the morning everyone gathered, either in the main hall or in an overflow room equipped with big screens, for the Opening Ceremony of the conference.
In the Opening Ceremony the elected leaders and the main issues that would be covered at the conference were introduced. The Opening Ceremony started with Mr. Abdullah Bin Hamad Al-Attiyah, the COP18 president, saying his farewells and noting the achievements made in Doha, Qatar at the COP 18 Conference. He then introduced the COP19 president, Mr. Maran Korolec of Poland, who touched on the importance of everybody working together to reach the goals set by the Convention to address climate change. Ms. Christiana Figueres, the Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, spoke next and told everyone the scary truth about the air we breath. We are currently breathing 400ppm of CO2 in our air for the first time in human history. She also spoke about the link between climate change and the tsunami that hit the Philippians and other surrounding countries in recent days and about the importance of addressing the financing aspect of climate change as part of any international agreement The mayor of Warsaw, Ms. Hanna Gronkiewicz-Waltz, then took the podium and talked about how Warsaw is working everyday to become a more environmentally friendly city.
The final speaker was Mr. Rajendra Kumar Pachauri, the chair of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). His powerpoint presentation described how continuing climate change will affect our future, including the warming of the oceans, melting glaciers, rising sea levels, ocean acidification and record concentrations of CO2, methane, and nitrous oxide, much of which can be attributed to human activity. He showed predictions of a 2.6 to a 8.5 degree rise in atmospheric temperature in the future, a rise that will present a severe challenge for adaptation. In order to avoid these issues we have to act now or it will be harder to fix in the future. The Opening Ceremony ended with country representatives and members of civil society voicing their opinions on the issues that should be covered during the conference.
After the Opening Ceremony we were able to explore the stadium and figure out where everything is located. We found food, the meeting rooms, and the exhibits of the NGOs (non-governmental organizations).
Overall it was a very overwhelming but exciting day.
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| National Stadium (Stadion Narodowy): Where COP19 is being held |
In the Opening Ceremony the elected leaders and the main issues that would be covered at the conference were introduced. The Opening Ceremony started with Mr. Abdullah Bin Hamad Al-Attiyah, the COP18 president, saying his farewells and noting the achievements made in Doha, Qatar at the COP 18 Conference. He then introduced the COP19 president, Mr. Maran Korolec of Poland, who touched on the importance of everybody working together to reach the goals set by the Convention to address climate change. Ms. Christiana Figueres, the Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, spoke next and told everyone the scary truth about the air we breath. We are currently breathing 400ppm of CO2 in our air for the first time in human history. She also spoke about the link between climate change and the tsunami that hit the Philippians and other surrounding countries in recent days and about the importance of addressing the financing aspect of climate change as part of any international agreement The mayor of Warsaw, Ms. Hanna Gronkiewicz-Waltz, then took the podium and talked about how Warsaw is working everyday to become a more environmentally friendly city.
The final speaker was Mr. Rajendra Kumar Pachauri, the chair of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). His powerpoint presentation described how continuing climate change will affect our future, including the warming of the oceans, melting glaciers, rising sea levels, ocean acidification and record concentrations of CO2, methane, and nitrous oxide, much of which can be attributed to human activity. He showed predictions of a 2.6 to a 8.5 degree rise in atmospheric temperature in the future, a rise that will present a severe challenge for adaptation. In order to avoid these issues we have to act now or it will be harder to fix in the future. The Opening Ceremony ended with country representatives and members of civil society voicing their opinions on the issues that should be covered during the conference.
After the Opening Ceremony we were able to explore the stadium and figure out where everything is located. We found food, the meeting rooms, and the exhibits of the NGOs (non-governmental organizations).
Overall it was a very overwhelming but exciting day.
Monday, November 11, 2013
First Day in Poland
We all have our own expectations and thoughts about the upcoming COP19. Some of us are excited to meet people with the same thoughts and feelings about climate change, others are anticipating being a sponge and soaking up all the information they can, and some can’t wait to be a part of something much bigger then SES and themselves. It is amazing to think that someday it will be our generation that runs these conferences. It is also hard to believe we will be the ones changing the world for the better or worse. By going to this conference I feel our generation has the chance to be a part of something changing the world for the good. This is going to help us learn how to point others in this direction too. We all are unsure of the adventures ahead but what we do know is that we will not be the same people when we return.
With our first day in Poland came our first impressions of this new country! It was great to see all of the smiling faces as we began our decent into Warsaw. Some of us were excited to be in a country overseas and some of us more experienced travelers were happy to be visiting a whole new place. I think the conference became real when we went and registered. We received a badge that will allow us to enter the conference. Even though it is a little piece of paper with our faces attached to a lanyard, to all of us it signified much more; the opportunity to be present among the most intellectual people in the world addressing the climate change issue. Overall, our first impressions were that we are now a part of something MUCH bigger than we ever expected.
Wednesday, November 6, 2013
SES delegation to COP 19
The SES COP 19 delegation leaves soon for the United Nations International Climate Change Conference being held in Warsaw, Poland November 11th-22nd. The COP, or Conference of the Parties, will bring together representatives from more than 190 countries as well as members of Civil Society from around the world to address the dilemmas embedded in the climate change issue. SESEF student delegates will participate as official observers of the events of the conference and will be sharing their experiences and observations here daily.
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