Interview with Fred Onduri, Freshly Elected Chair of CTCN Advisory Board: Discussing a Decade of Climate Technology Progression
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Climate Technology Centre & Network (CTCN) are working together to enhance climate resilience and sustainability in developing countries. This partnership is leveraging various technologies and initiatives to address some of the world's most pressing challenges.
One key area of focus is building decarbonisation and resilience support. Through energy-efficient building materials, retrofitting solutions, and smart urban infrastructure, countries are receiving technical assistance to reduce energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and improve the resilience of buildings against climate impacts. Collaboration with UNEP and other agencies ensures the transfer of best practices and innovations.
Renewable energy mini-grids, particularly community-based solar systems, are another crucial component. In contexts like rural Nigeria, these decentralized renewable energy solutions have empowered communities to plan, finance, and implement their own projects, addressing electricity poverty and promoting clean energy access. Web-based applications for analyzing demand, supply, and business models for mini-grids are provided, enabling communities to make informed decisions and attract investors.
The CTCN also plays a significant role in conducting technology needs assessments and transfer. This process involves identifying and prioritizing climate technologies for adaptation and mitigation. With UNEP support, countries are implementing these assessments, leading to the adoption of relevant technologies such as advanced irrigation systems, early warning systems, and energy-efficient appliances. Multi-stakeholder processes ensure that chosen technologies address local needs and promote sustainable development.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) for climate action is another area of focus. The UNFCCC, CTCN, UNEP, and partners collaborate to advance the use of AI in climate action, supporting the development of more effective early warning systems and technology-driven adaptation strategies.
These examples demonstrate how UNEP and CTCN initiatives are using technology to drive climate resilience and sustainable development in developing countries. E-mobility projects in the Solomon Islands, drought risk modelling in Saint Kitts and Nevis, and Slamdam structures to protect crops from flooding in Burundi are just a few examples of the impact these initiatives have had.
However, challenges remain. Finding partners who can take technology pilots to the next level is another challenge faced by the CTCN. A rigid mindset and attitude that resists change is another obstacle. Accessing financing needed to implement certain technologies is also a challenge.
Despite these challenges, the CTCN's work is crucial in the fight against climate change. Initiatives for preparing transport to run on renewable energy in the Solomon Islands, energy efficiency projects in Papua New Guinea, and the new geothermal policy in Uganda are just a few examples of the ongoing efforts to combat climate change and transition towards more sustainable practices.
As the CTCN celebrates its 10-year anniversary, it is clear that its role in bridging the gap between existing technologies and their application in developing countries is more important than ever. By continuing to collaborate and innovate, the UNEP and CTCN are helping to create a more sustainable and resilient future for all.
Science plays a pivotal role in the collaboration between UNEP and CTCN, as they leverage various technologies and initiatives to address climate change and enhance sustainability in developing countries. For instance, renewable energy mini-grids, such as community-based solar systems, are empowering rural communities while promoting clean energy access. Moreover, initiatives like e-mobility projects in the Solomon Islands and energy efficiency projects in Papua New Guinea indicate the ongoing efforts to combat climate change and transition towards more sustainable practices, demonstrating the importance of environmental science and technology in shaping a resilient future for all.
