Countries’ climate targets and forests. Green recovery and the financial system. Just transition, renewable energy jobs and the fossil fuel phase-out. Business leadership on climate action. How COVID-19 is refocusing sustainable finance. Citizens investing in their cities’ sustainable future. Effects of extreme weather on solar PV projects. Critical Raw Materials for a clean planet. Decarbonization and electrification of transport. Find out about these and more online events of the week!
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8 June, World Oceans Day 🌊
8 June, 10:30 – 11:00 AM CEST and 4:00 – 5:30 PM CEST
“Business leadership on climate action and building resilience” (by World Business Council for Sustainable Development)
As the global economy seeks to emerge and recover from the devastating impacts of COVID-19 and the economic crisis, businesses are focused on saving business operations and services as well as the well-being and safety of employees. However, business leaders are also seeking to ensure that climate action is at the core of long-term economic planning. Business is collaborating with governments to build stronger, resilient economies that ensures the long-term health and well-being of citizens, job creation, tackling climate change once and for all, and building a more resilient and inclusive society. This session will see leaders from business, investors and policymakers reflect on emerging developments and provide insights for how business can contribute towards building resilient societies through climate action and advocacy.
8 June, 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM CEST
“Social Innovation and the Energiewende: lessons and outlooks from Germany” (by ICLEI)
Meaningful energy transition requires extensive technical effort, as well as social and institutional change. Where does Germany currently stand with its own energy transition process, known as the “Energiewende”? Are social innovations part of the transformation process? How have German cities built their strategies for a sustainable energy future? And, what is the role of rural areas in the German energy transition? Join the webinar to hear diverse perspectives on the Energiewende, and what stakeholders from across Europe can learn from Germany’s experience.
8 June, 1:00 – 2:30 PM CEST
“Launch of The State of the World Fisheries and Aquaculture” (by Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations – FAO)
The State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture Report (SOFIA) is one of the most downloaded and read FAO’s publications. Since 1994, this publications has hit the charts biennially, providing the most comprehensive and accurate data on fisheries and aquaculture, and influencing fisheries management around the globe.
8 June, 1:00 – 3:00 PM CEST
“Adapt to Thrive: transformational change for nature and business” (by United Nations Environment Assembly)
This townhall of the UN Environment Assembly will feature a panel including Global Environment Outlook for Business authors, policymakers and stakeholders; and will address four questions: Business transformation may be inevitable, but how can business adapt to thrive? How can stimulus packages ensure investment in resilient, inclusive and irreversible green economies? What is key to business in the post-COVID-19 response and recovery? What is the enabling environment for business transformation towards a Nature Positive Economy?
8 June, 2:30 – 4:00 PM CEST
“What solutions to fight plastic pollution in the ocean?” (by IDDRI)
Plastic pollution of the ocean is now reaching an alarming level, threatening species and ecosystems, affecting the well-being of populations and costing billions of euros every year, in particular through its impact on sectors such as tourism and fishing. How can we effectively combine political actions and private initiatives to fight the pollution? How to ensure synergy between measures developed at local, national and even international levels? What gaps need to be filled to enable genuine protection of the marine environment?
8 June, 3:00 – 4:00 PM CEST
“June Momentum for Climate Change – Technology Mechanism ramps up its work to help countries scale up climate action” (by Technology Executive Committee and Climate Technology Centre & Network)
While the world is dealing with Covid-19, advancing the work on climate change remains an important effort, particularly in the context of recovery process from the impacts of the pandemic. This year, the Technology Mechanism continues its work in operationalizing the outcomes of Katowice to implement the Paris Agreement and supporting countries to enhance action on technology development and transfer. In this event you will be provided brief updates on the implementation of Technology Framework in various climate technology areas, including innovation, implementation, enabling environment and capacity building, stakeholder engagement and support. A panel discussion will follow to discuss how the Technology Mechanism work and climate technology in general can contribute to global efforts to “Recover Better”.
8 June, 3:00 – 4:00 PM CEST
“World Ocean Summit Insight Hour” (by The Economist)
The latest film in The Protectors Ocean Series asks five leading thinkers in ocean conservation (including Sir David Attenborough) the question: “If you could invest US$1bn in one ocean solution, what would it be and why?”. The film also brings back previous protectors and asks them about their priorities for investment in the ocean. The film premiere will take place during this live webinar.
8 June, 3:00 – 5:00 PM CEST
“How can aerial measurements aid methane emissions reduction?” (by Florence School of Regulation)
How can policy and regulation foster the development of satellite measurement and other new technological approaches? Could satellites and other aerial measurement methods provide for step-change in methane emissions regulation? This online event focuses on the impact of the satellites and other aerial measurements on regulatory regimes for methane and the role of regulation in further promoting these measurements.
8 June, 4:00 – 5:15 PM CEST
“Human Rights Strategies in Climate Change Litigation” (by Global Network for Human Rights and the Environment – GNHRE)
This event is a part of webinar series on ‘Human Rights Strategies in Climate Change Litigation’ providing a global overview on the issue. Featuring representatives of the United Nations, London School of Economics and Penn Law.
8 June, 5:00 – 6:30 PM CEST
“IRENA Youth Talk — Impact of COVID-19 on the renewable energy sector” (by International Renewable Energy Association)
This event is a part of webinar series aimed at strengthening the IRENA’s engagement with the youth, amplifying their voice and actions in supporting renewables, achieving climate stability, and advancing the sustainable development agenda. In this talk, youth representatives will discuss the impact and consequences of the current COVID-19 pandemic on the renewable energy sector with IRENA’s Director-General Francesco La Camera. Young people will also present successful examples of their contribution to the deployment of renewable energy in their communities.
8 June, 6:00 – 8:00 PM CEST
“Envisioning a People’s COP in November 2020” (by Yale Open Lab – Open Climate Collabathon, Global Challenges Foundation New York and Climate Chain Coalition)
Youth/Fridays for Future, people on the street demand effective global climate action. We see a paradigm shift in global climate action collaboration with national governments now welcoming non-state actors’ climate action in the UNFCCC process/Paris Agreement. Disruptive COVID19 circumstances and postponed government focused COP26 gives us a chance to reimagine the way we organize global climate talks and explore new avenues for coordination and incentivization of multistakeholder climate action. New technologies (e.g. blockchain) enable the global community to deploy new solutions for meaningful and rewarding engagement of all societal stakeholders. The proposed format involves a roundtable style ideation panel and discussion/stakeholder consultation with an Open Climate Dialogue soon after.
8 June, 6:30 – 7:30 PM CEST (12:30 PM EST)
“Just Transitions, Renewable Energy Jobs and the Fossil Fuel Phase-Out” (by Initiative for Sustainable Energy Policy and Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies)
Fossil fuel industries directly employ over 12 million workers and benefit millions more through indirect jobs. One major factor influencing political support for climate policies, particularly in fossil fuel producing countries, is the impact low carbon transitions will have on the existing fossil fuel jobs. Many policymakers, NGOs and think tanks groups are increasingly focusing on both understanding and developing “just transition” strategies that aim to minimize the impact of climate policies on fossil fuel workers and their communities. Drawing on just transition research, this webinar aims to shed light on: 1) the key strategies of just transition that policymakers can focus on to ameliorate opposition from fossil fuel workers and their communities to the much-need low carbon transitions; and 2) the extent to which fossil fuel jobs can be replaced by growing renewable energy jobs.
9 – 11 June
“From local to European: barriers and solutions to tackle Energy Poverty” (by)
After three years of hard and successful efforts in tackling energy poverty, the ASSIST project is approaching its end. It is therefore the right time for the partners of the project to organise a conference to discuss the challenges and the solutions to tackle Energy Poverty at the European and local levels. The conference will bring different actors, including stakeholders and policy decision makers, tackling energy poverty from both local and European levels. The topics covered include:
– How local actions and social innovations are necessary to put vulnerable consumers at the heart of policies addressing energy poverty
– Challenges to tackle energy poverty: views from EU projects
– EU policy to tackle energy poverty and protect vulnerable consumers in Europe: proposal and recommendations
9 June, 9:00 – 11:00 AM CEST
“Connecting People and Nature: Transforming the global food systems” (by United Nations Environment Assembly)
The way we produce, transform, distribute, consume and dispose of food is causing environmental, social and human health problems on a global scale. Agricultural systems are the foundation of our food and will need to provide an affordable and healthy diet to a global population–estimated to reach 10 billion by 2050. This townhall will explore opportunities for transforming agriculture and food systems, employing nature-friendly practices and taking into account food systems, food and nutrition security, and livelihoods. This dialogue will build momentum for a collaborative approach between public and private actors at the fifth meeting of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-5) and, ultimately, will feed into the UN Food Systems Summit – a critical opportunity to set a course to radically transform our food systems.
9 June, 10:00 – 11:30 AM CEST
“Citizen Finance: people investing in their cities’ sustainable future” (by European Covenant of Mayors)
This webinar will look at some innovative ways to finance sustainable energy and climate actions at local level related to citizen finance. Indeed, the 2019 climate mobilisations showed growing interest for climate issues coming from citizens, and this is an encouraging sign that they are ready to take ownership of the Energy Transition. Solutions like energy cooperatives and crowdfunding will be presented and discussed. Join to hear about Citizen Finance from both institutional actors and first-hand practitioners from the ground.
9 June, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM CEST
“Germany’s long goodbye from coal” (by Agora Energiewende)
Lessons learned from the structural transformation of German’s two largest hard coal mining areas (Ruhr area and Saarland) between the 1950s and 2018. Overview on the role of hard coal and lignite in the Germany’s energy sector today. Coal Commission’s recommendations. Assessment of the draft of the “Coal Phase-out Law” and outlook on its implications for the German power sector until 2030.
9 June, 12:00 – 2:00 PM CEST
“Scaling-Up Solar PV Roof Top” (by EU GCC Clean Energy Technology Network)
Rooftop solar is increasingly cost-effective for homeowners, business owners, and their communities. Reductions in technology prices, innovative financing, and growing networks of solar installers and financial partners all helped drive down the prices for PV Rooftop systems. On the other hand, because rooftop solar can be installed in cities and towns, as opposed to remote locations, it offers job possibilities for local engineers and technicians. The webinar will debate the key challenges and opportunities in PV rooftop segment in policies, technology advancement and investors perspective in commercial, industrial and residential space.
Registration link here.
9 June, 12:30 – 1:30 PM CEST
“Meeting well-below 2°C target would increase energy sector jobs” (by RFF-CMCC European Institute on Economics and the Environment and Euro-Mediterranean Center of Climate Change)
Over 12 million people work in the coal, oil and natural gas industries today. However, to keep global warming well below 2°C, a target enshrined in the Paris climate agreement, all three fossil fuels need to dramatically decline and be replaced by low carbon energy sources. While this is technically possible, whether it can be done fast enough is a political question. One major factor influencing political support for climate policies, particularly in fossil fuel producing countries, is the impact they have on fossil fuel jobs…
9 June, 1:00 – 2:30 PM CEST
“Two Roads Diverged: a study of State Aid to Nuclear in France and Germany” (by Florence School of Regulation)
Both France and Germany are currently pursuing very different paths with respect to nuclear energy and, in turn, state aid for the sector. While France is continuing its support, Germany has opted to phase out its nuclear power plants. Nuclear energy and public financing of the sector is often a contentious and sticky issue and, as we will see in the case of Germany, these issues continue beyond the shut down of power plants. Both courses of action can be deemed imperfect, and both have required state aid. In this online session, we will examine how both France and Germany have approached the issue of nuclear energy and state support.
9 June, 2:00 PM – 11 June 7:30 PM CEST
“Global Goals 2020: International Sustainable Development Goals Research Symposium” (by Utrecht University, Monash University, German Development Institute, Southern Voice and University of Sussex)
The event provides a forum for the exchange of cutting-edge research and policy studies on this question. The Symposium brings together a broad group of leading social scientists from universities and prominent think tanks for a first stocktaking of what we know about the actual impact of ‘governance through goals’. The SDG Research Symposium will not address sustainability governance as such but focus on assessing the effects of global goal-setting, with special emphasis on the Sustainable Development Goals as the premier and most comprehensive global goal-setting effort to-date.
9 June, 3:00 – 4:00 PM CEST
“Renewable Power Generation Costs in 2019: Latest Trends and Drivers” (by International Renewable Energy Agency – IRENA)
Following the 2019’s edition of IRENA’s Renewable Power Generation Costs report published on 2 June 2020, IRENA is organising a webinar to share with you the key takeaways from this new body of work, and provide insights into the global cost trends for renewable power as well as drivers of cost declines in 2019. Solar and wind power costs continued to fall in 2019, while auctions and power purchase agreements (PPA) results show there is no sign of slowing in the downward trend…
9 June, 3:00 – 4:00 PM CEST
“The Increasing Effect of Extreme Weather on Solar PV projects” (by SolarPower Europe)
Whether it’s hurricanes in the Caribbean, wildfires in California, flooding in North Carolina or 5cm hailstones in Texas, weather systems are having a greater effect on how we live. As more solar projects are built in locations that experience severe weather conditions, we expect an increase in the insured cost of weather incidents to continue. This webinar will take a look at the damage caused to solar energy projects and explore what can be done to mitigate the effects of severe weather.
9 June, 3:00 – 4:30 PM CEST
“Sustainability After COVID-19: Building resilient supply chains through resource efficiency” (by Green Growth Knowledge Partnership)
How can resource efficiency support business recovery from COVID-19? What support services do SMEs along the supply chain need to implement resource efficiency measures? Do these services exist? How can they be accessed? How can industry and policy maker collaboration ensure that resource efficiency policies are adapted to supply chain needs? How can multinationals support their supply chains to become more resource efficient as they build back better?
9 June, 3:00 – 4:30 PM CEST
“COVID-19 X SDGs – Inequalities and Informal Economy” (by SDG Lab)
This high-level discussion platform is aimed to unpack how COVID-19 is impacting progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and what actors are doing to address immediate needs of their citizens while keeping the 2030 SDG horizon in clear view. This event will focus on the many facets of inequalities in responding to the crisis, through the entry point of the informal economy. Representative of three countries – Jordan, Portugal and South Africa – will speak to their efforts to address inequalities while maintaining focus on the 2030 Agenda.
9 June, 3:00 – 4:00 PM CEST
“Maximising utilisation & performance of renewable energy through smart technology & storage systems” (by ATA Insights)
Discussion with experts about the need for innovative energy network solutions to deliver more efficient, sustainable & resilient power systems.
9 June, 3:00 – 4:00 PM CEST
“Bridging financing gaps for NDCs in agriculture under climate change” (by Global Framework on Water Scarcity in Agriculture – WASAG)
During the webinar, WASAG will share its Framework on Financing Mechanisms. This Framework aims to identify and support new approaches to finance water for agriculture. These approaches will inform the work undertaken in the WASAG working groups to ensure an aligned approach across WASAG projects and activities. The webinar will present the framework and a number of case studies illustrating how it can be utilized.
9 June, 4:00 – 5:00 PM CEST (10:00 AM EST)
“Promoting Innovation in Climate Change Adaptation” (by World Bank Group and Innovate4Climate)
While innovation in climate change mitigation technologies has accelerated sharply over the past two decades, innovation in climate change adaptation technologies has more or less kept its pace, resulting in lost time for the most vulnerable to be able to adapt to and survive climate change. Through the presentation of a new research report, this webinar explores what is holding back innovation in climate change adaptation technology, including gaps in technological capacity and market failures, and also raises further questions on why technological transfers from high income to lower-income countries are not taking place. Register here.
9 June, 4:00 – 5:00 PM CEST
“How Can U.S. Water Efficiency Standards Inform Worldwide CO2 Reduction?” (by Clean Energy Solutions Center and CLASP)
This webinar will cover the energy and climate benefits of water efficiency standards. Efficiency standards for fixtures such as faucets and showerheads have the potential to significantly reduce CO2 emissions through reduced energy use for water heating. In the United States, some states facing groundwater shortages have moved to adopt water efficiency policies, which suggests an underutilized pathway to achieving carbon emissions reductions…
9 June, 4:30 – 5:30 PM CEST
“Gender, Climate and Security: Presenting the Evidence” (by UN Joint Programme for Women, Natural Resources, Climate and Peace and Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security)
This webinar is co-hosted by the UN Joint Programme on Women, Natural Resources, Climate and Peace and the Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security, marking the launch of two new reports: “Gender, Climate and Security: Sustaining Inclusive Peace on the Frontlines of Climate Change” and “Women Building Resilient Cities in the Context of Climate Change: Lessons from Freetown, Sierra Leone.” Authors will discuss the gender dimensions of climate change and its associated security risks, presenting new insights from urban Pakistan, northern Nigeria, and Freetown, Sierra Leone.
9 June, 6:00 – 7:15 PM CEST (12:00 PM EST)
“Managing Forests for Climate Mitigation—from Theory to Practice” (by Resources for the Future)
During the webinar, a panel of expert practitioners will share how they are incorporating climate mitigation into their forest management practices on the ground, in various parts of the US. This event will begin with a short background presentation on the role of forests in climate mitigation, followed by a moderated panel discussion with representatives from nonprofit organizations and investment services, as well as private landowners who have practical experience in active forest management as a means to achieve conservation goals.
9 June, 6:00 – 7:45 PM CEST
“Shaping the Post-Corona World: Responses for Society and Business” (by Circular Economy Transition)
The purpose of this event is to stimulate a dialogue between key international players from politics, science and experts operating in the fields of new economic models, circular business models and behavioural change to explore how the Coronavirus crisis and the forced “slowing down” of societies is impacting personal lives, our societies and economies. The event will try to look to the future and explore whether the Covid-19 pandemic can and will help societies achieve the United Nations SDG goals and the impending climate targets. Discussion about learnings and takeaways from the crisis and insights about what opportunities such a time has to offer for a more resilient future.
9 June, 8:00 – 9:00 PM CEST (2:00 PM EST)
“Grid Services Under Uncertainty” (by Energy Systems Integration Group)
Accounting for uncertainty via operating reserve demand curves. Market power and unit de-commitment in regional markets. Forecasting applications for dynamic reserve allocation. This event is a part of the 2020 Meteorology & Market Design for Grid Services Workshop.
9 June, 8:00 – 9:00 PM CEST (2:00 PM EST)
“Carbon-free systems: Can we really rely on the weather?” (by General Electric Energy Consulting)
The whole idea of “carbon-free” seems impossible when you realize that ~65% of our planet’s electricity comes from burning fossil fuels. However, there are examples around the world of regions integrating record levels of carbon-free wind and solar energy by utilizing numerous forms of flexibility in their system. Join the webinar with field experts who will share their experiences using a holistic systems approach with industry partners to enable new carbon reduction milestones. The discussion will be around the role of weather uncertainty, highlight new technologies like hydrogen, and how fossil generation can actually help accelerate decarbonization.
10 June, 9:30 – 10:30 AM CEST
“European energy decarbonisation: reinforcing the EU’s 2050 climate neutrality goal through a green recovery” (by EURACTIV)
Decarbonising the energy sector in Europe by 2050 is an ambitious, yet achievable objective. It implies a large-scale electrification of the transport and heat sectors, which in turn will allow a much higher penetration of renewable energies in the energy mix. Deep decarbonisation also involves an increase in the overall efficiency of the energy system and a reduction in the share of unabated gases in the energy balance. The new reality brought about by the COVID-19 health crisis has reinforced the need to align the climate goals of the European Green Deal with the much-needed economic recovery efforts to build a more resilient, robust and sustainable EU economy. Will a ‘green recovery’ plan be able to deliver the necessary innovation and jobs that are needed to kick-start the European economy? And what will be the role of the energy sector in this plan? Join this virtual conference to discuss Europe’s optimal decarbonisation roadmap, post-COVID-19. Register here.
10 June, 10:00 – 11:00 AM CEST
“Achieving Net-Zero Emissions in European Industry by 2050” (by AHK Norwegen)
The breakthroughs in technology development and cost reductions needed to reach net-zero emissions in 2050 must be initiated now if Europe is to succeed in its climate efforts. Hydrogen is seen by the EU and Germany as the energy carrier that may be the missing link in realizing the energy transition. Several industry actors are already initiating ambitious pilot projects to replace fossil fuels with hydrogen. Which framework conditions do we need for converting to a hydrogen society? And how can we create a European infrastructure for the transport, usage and storage of hydrogen and CO2?
10 June, 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM CEST
“Infrastructure for Net-zero Heavy Industry in Europe” (by European Climate Foundation, Wuppertal Institute and EIT Climate-KIC)
Where in Europe and its industrial regions will (new) demand for electricity and hydrogen emerge until 2050, depending on different decarbonisation strategies? Which regions in Europe are affected most from the net-zero industrial transition and have the highest needs for adopting and expanding (existing) infrastructures? How much infrastructure and what kind of infrastructure solutions will be needed to cover the future demands of electricity and H2, and to transport remaining CO2 to carbon storages? What should be the next steps for a sustainable infrastructure on the long road towards greenhouse gas neutral industrial and energy systems within the Green Deal?
10 June, 10:00 – 11:30 AM CEST and 4:00 – 5:30 PM CEST
“Human rights in the agriculture sector and food value chains” (by World Business Council for Sustainable Development)
This session jointly hosted by the Global Agribusiness Alliance (GAA), the Food & Nature and the People Programs, will bring together agribusinesses, traders, food companies and retailers to discuss respect for human rights in the agricultural sector and food value chain; understand expectations of business partners (buyers, suppliers, traders, food companies, retailers) along the value chain; learn about best practices and explore collaborative solutions.
10 June, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM CEST
“Smart City Deep Dive – Umeå (Sweden)” (by RUGGEDISED)
The European Smart City Lighthouse Umeå is a very special place. Sitting on the edge of the Arctic Circle, it is a young modern city, with a population of 124,000. Here, the natural world co-exists with the urban environment. Energy efficiency and low carbon solutions are especially important in such places. Through the Digital Deep Dive, hear about smart city solutions that are being developed Umeå. City’s partners will be lifting the lid on their key developments. You’ll find out about the Umeå’s integrated approach to combining their technical solutions, and their smart building concept. This includes the use of smart control equipment to control airflow, room climate and presence-activated lighting.
10 June, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM CEST
“Harmonising health and safety standards –paving the way for a strong European wind energy industry” (by Wind Harmony Project)
This workshop will present the Wind Harmony final recommendations on possible interventions – including potential harmonisation where appropriate – of health and safety topics for wind energy at European level. These recommendations are based on expected health and safety improvements, cost reductions and overall efficiency. The results of the workshop will feed into the European Commission’s future priorities for health and safety in the wind sector. Further details are available in the agenda.
10 June, 1:00 – 3:00 PM CEST
“Youth Voices for Nature: Environmental Governance in the Time of Covid-19” (by UN Environment Assembly)
Voices of youth need to be heard at the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) – a meeting that relates directly to their future. This town hall considers environmental governance in the context of COVID-19 and provides a platform for young people to discuss how to steer economic recovery in a way that puts nature at the heart of decision-making. It will bring together experts from the UN system, member states, civil society groups and the science community to explore how to #buildBackBetter; and to deliver a clear message at UNEA-5 that will lead to environmental action. The video Youth Action will also be presented, featuring key activities and messages from World Environment Day 2020.
10 June, 2:00 – 3:30 PM CEST
“Decentralized, Smarter, Greener: the 2030 European grid” (by SolarPower Europe)
Reaching climate-neutrality will require the addition of larger amounts of variable and decentralised renewable energy capacities: already by 2030, solar will represent 50 to 54% of the total power generation according to SolarPower Europe’s 100% Renewable Energy study. What does it mean for the grids? How can Europe deploy the necessary smart grid technologies? How can the grid evolve to a more decentralised energy system? This webinar will discuss the pathway to a smarter, decentralised and more flexible grid and will launch the SolarPower Europe’s new Grids Working Group.
10 June, 3:00 – 4:00 PM CEST
“COVID-19, Plastic Pollution and the Green Recovery” (by World Economic Forum)
What are the pressing challenges that have emerged for the global movement to combat plastic pollution and waste as a result of COVID-19? What are the biggest setbacks we’re seeing in each sector? How are different players adapting their strategies in light of this new paradigm, and what are some examples of support and collaboration that can help us move forward together? How will things shift as we begin the journey towards recovery from the pandemic, and how do we work proactively now to ensure a green reset that allows a continued focus on mitigating plastic waste and pollution and that protects livelihoods in both the short and long term?
10 June, 4:00 – 5:00 PM CEST
“The NDCs we want – Forests in the Focus” (by WWF REDD+)
Nature-based solutions, including forests, must play a crucial role if we are to keep average global temperature rise below 1.5°C. However, analysis suggests that current Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) do not sufficiently and adequately include nature-based solutions yet – that despite the urgency of the climate crisis, the potential of forests to mitigate and adjust to climate change is largely untapped. Now is the moment to change this, with Parties to the UNFCCC having committed to ratcheting up climate ambition and to submit their enhanced NDCs by COP26. In this learning session WWF will provide background and context on the current international climate policy agenda and present recommendations on enhancing NDCs through nature-based solutions.
10 June, 4:00 – 5:00 PM CEST
“Energy Security in an Insecure World” (by International Energy Agency)
A talk with U.S. Secretary of Energy Dan Brouillette and IEA Executive Director Dr Fatih Birol.
10 June, 5:00 – 6:00 PM CEST
“How is COVID-19 refocusing sustainable finance?” (by Climate Action)
The pandemic will ingrain new social and economic norms as the world adjusts to a new reality and a new era of economic instability. Epidemics and pandemics are both a standalone business risk as well as an amplifier of existing trends and vulnerabilities. The sustainable finance agenda must not lose momentum and green finance should still be at the forefront of a global economy facing years of climate and financial uncertainty. As investors adapt to a period of extreme volatility this webinar will discuss the response of both the asset management and corporate sectors.
10 June, 5:00 – 6:00 PM CEST
“Financing the transition towards an inclusive blue economy” (by International Institute for Environment and Development – IIED)
Marine and coastal resources that support the livelihoods of millions of women and men face growing pressures, including overfishing, habitat degradation, pollution and climate change. Financial instruments can offer a solution to deliver positive socioeconomic and environmental outcomes for resource management. Join this online discussion on how to mobilise public and private finance to enable the transition to a sustainable and inclusive blue economy.
10 June, 5:00 – 6:30 PM CEST
“Climate Justice in the Arctic: an emerging research agenda” (by Centre for Climate Justice at Glasgow Caledonian University)
Climate change in the Arctic region comes with significant challenges to just transitions, climate security (migration, conflict, human trafficking), and mental and physical health. Climate justice, a concept focused on the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, is a growing area of scholarship with increasing relevance to the Arctic as the region continues to undergo rapid physical and socio-economic transformation. This webinar is an opportunity to learn more about the latest social science research in the Arctic from three Arctic institutions – and join the conversation on a new research agenda.
10 June, 5:30 – 6:30 PM CEST (11:30 EST)
“Why Regenerative Agriculture Is Good for Soil Health, but Has Limited Potential to Mitigate Climate Change” (by World Resources Institute)
Regenerative agriculture has become the darling of many policymakers, food companies and farmers. But can it deliver on climate change mitigation? This webinar will explore WRI’s view that these practices can improve soil health and yield some valuable environmental benefits, but are unlikely to achieve large-scale emissions reductions. You’ll dive into agriculture’s connection to climate change, what the literature says about regenerative agriculture’s potential for emissions reduction, and what this means for how to build a sustainable food future – including how to produce more food while protecting natural resources.
10 June, 6:00 – 7:00 PM CEST
“Critical Raw Materials for a clean planet” (by Politecnico di Torino)
This event is a part of webinar series “Challenges for Engineers for a Greener Future”. The series include presentations and discussion on five challenges identified by the US National Academies in their publication ““Environmental Engineering for the 21st Century” (2019), plus two specific challenges related to energy transition and raw materials. During the webinar some of Politecnico di Torino faculty members will provide evidence of the contribution that engineering may give to a sustainable future.
11 June, 9:00 – 10:30 AM CEST
“Adopting Decabornization Policies in the Buildings and Construction Sector” (by Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction)
“Adopting Decabornization Policies in the Buildings and Construction Sector” is the newest report that provides a review of the evidence of the impact of implementing cost-effective policy measures to reduce the carbon footprint of the buildings and construction sector. The report reflects on the most important measures that policymakers at all jurisdiction levels should consider when planning building climate actions that can deliver the most economic impact and emissions savings over the long-term.
11 June, 10:00 – 11:30 AM CEST
“Modernising energy efficency through digitalisation: Opportunities for Fintech to Scale up Finance for Clean Energy” (by International Energy Agency – IEA and OECD)
In this webinar, experts will explain how block chain technology can revolutionise the green bond market, how sensors and digital platforms are making it cheaper and easier to finance smaller scale energy efficiency and renewable energy projects, and how countries are applying these technologies to attract and raise capital from new investors. Register here.
11 June, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM CEST
“Circular Economy and Circular Cities” (by Stockholm Environment Institute Tallinn and Estonian Association for Environmental Management)
The global megatrends are showing rapid urbanization, which means more and more people will be living in urban areas in the future. Cities will be holding an increasingly important role in transitioning to a circular carbon-neutral economy. The webinar will focus on the possibilities of implementing circular economy in cities.
11 June, 12:00 – 12:45 PM CEST (11:00 EEST)
“End of inflexible generation? – Coal unprofitable while flexible gas and storage make profit” (by Wärtsilä)
Electricity market price volatility has increased, creating an opportunity for flexible generation and storage. Flexibility is being rewarded and there is an unprecedented opportunity on the European markets for very flexible plants right now – a trend that predicts well for a faster energy transition. Join to find out more and discover Wärtsilä Energy Transition Lab – a free-to-use data platform developed to help the industry, policy makers and the public to understand European electricity markets and plan for a future with a significantly increased level of renewables.
11 June, 12:00 – 1:00 PM CEST
“Empowering the private sector for climate change action” (by EU GCC Clean Energy Technology Network)
Action from the private sector on climate change is increasingly seen by the global community as critical. Businesses can operate across national and regional boundaries and can act more quickly than governments. Many companies in the EU and GCC are also setting increasingly ambitious goals for co2 reduction and clean energy that often outstrip national targets. This webinar will hear the views from businesses operating in both the EU and GCC on a few key questions such as: What is driving businesses to act on climate change and clean energy? How can governments facilitate and accelerate action? How is the current covid-19 crisis affecting business action on climate change?
Registration link here.
11 June, 2:00 – 3:00 PM CEST
“Energy dispute resolution: Concepts and experience” (by Energy Community Secretariat)
The world of energy dispute resolution is as vast as the field of energy itself: protection of consumers, regulatory aspects, protection of investments, climate and environment, integrating renewables, breaking monopolies to mention just a few. When facing an energy dispute, what is the safest way towards favourable settlement: litigation, arbitration, mediation? Join to find out.
11 June, 3:00 – 3:45 PM CEST
“Scaling-up floating wind to commercialisation” (by WindEurope)
Floating offshore wind is a technology growing rapidly in the market at global scale and it will contribute to reaching Europe’s decarbonisation targets by 2050 providing almost a third of all the installed capacity (between 100-150 GW). National energy policy is a huge driver of this growth but current policies will not take us there. Political changes are needed to move to projects as large as bottom fixed and reach full commercial scale. This online talk will discuss the key actions that are needed in the next 3 years to consolidate Europe’s leadership in floating offshore technologies and develop at least 6 GW by 2030.
11 June, 3:00 – 4:00 PM CEST
“How to assess financial and energy savings of renovations in residential buildings?” (by RenOnBill Project)
In this webinar, RenOnBill will present its online tool that can support financial institutions and energy utilities in assessing the potential of specific energy renovation measures in residential buildings. You will find out about the tool’s functionalities and user experience design, how the tool can support the decision-making process toward renovations. You will also have a chance to contribute to the tool’s development by gaining first-hand insights on the tool’s underlying assumptions, methodologies and calculations from its developers, as well as by providing feedback on the tool’s design.
11 June, 3:00 – 4:00 PM CEST
“Climate-related disclosure for Food, Agriculture and Forest Products Companies” (by World Business Council for Sustainable Development)
Leading food, agriculture and forest products companies in collaboration with WBCSD, provide an in-depth look at climate-related disclosure in the April 2020 report “Disclosure in a time of system transformation: TCFD* disclosure for food, agriculture and forest products companies.” During this webinar we will dig into the findings of this report, share lessons learned, as well as reflections on how companies are implementing the TCFD recommendations and responding to climate-related risks and opportunities.
* TCFD stands for Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures
11 June, 3:00 – 4:00 PM CEST
“Implementing Nationally Determined Contributions” (by UNEP, UNDP, GEF, UNEP DTU)
The implementation of countries’ nationally determined contribution (NDC) to the Paris Agreement is a large undertaking. While each country will implement its NDC in its own way, there are common features of the implementation process that contribute to successful results and streamlined submission of future NDCs. The webinar will walk participants through choices in developing implementation strategies, laid out in five generic steps: 1) Alignment of climate and development objectives; 2) Preparation of NDC implementation; 3) Development of a finance strategy; 4) Monitoring and reporting of NDC progress and achievement; 5) Revising strategies and preparing subsequent NDCs. This webinar is based on the recent publication on Implementing Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
11 June, 3:00 – 4:00 PM CEST
“Households are happy to join together and provide power flexibility for climate action” (by UsersTCP, Leondardo Energy, European Copper Institute and Voltalis)
Residential and small commercial electricity consumers will provide most of the flexibility needed in the power system to achieve the energy transition at lower cost. This flexibility will allow the electricity grid to take on more renewables and need less grid reinforcements. Consumers are happy to participate (>75% opt-in rate) via an aggregator and be rewarded with energy savings reducing their electricity. Because it reduces the overall costs of running the energy system, it means that all consumers benefit from lower energy prices. The business case is now proven as more and more countries worldwide ensure demand side response can participate in wholesale markets as an alternative to generation and the EU has provided support through its recent Clean Energy Package…
11 June, 4:00 – 5:00 PM CEST
“Setting the Scene: The climate resilience challenge and how European Space Agency is responding” (by European Space Agency)
This is the first webinar from education webinar series by the European Space Agency’s Earth Observation for Sustainable Development (EO4SD) Climate Resilience Cluster. The aim is to provide insight about the potential of Earth Observation (EO) to support climate-resilient decision making at the regional and national scale. This webinar will set the scene by summarising the European Space Agency’s current and planned activities in the climate domain, introduce the nature and scope of the ESA E04SD Climate Resilience Cluster, and provide an overview of the scientific and policy context to climate action.
11 June, 4:00 – 5:00 PM CEST
“Climate and Security: Advancing A Gender Lens” (by Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace & Security)
In this critical moment of global crisis, there is an opportunity to “build back better” and create a more inclusive and sustainable post-COVID world. Join Former President of Ireland, leading activists, policymakers, researchers, and development practitioners for a discussion on the gender dimensions of climate change. The panel will highlight the associated security risks, and share recommendations for advancing this agenda in ongoing policy debates and emerging investments. This event also marks the launch of two important new reports: the Joint Programme’s report “Gender, Climate and Security: Sustaining Inclusive Peace on the Frontlines of Climate Change” and GIWPS’ report “Women Building Resilient Cities in the Context of Climate Change: Lessons from Sierra Leone.”
11 June, 8:00 – 9:00 PM CEST (2:00 PM EST)
“Decarbonization and the role of transportation electrification” (by ABB North America)
The electrification of transportation is an exciting area for economic development and consumer interest and goes well beyond standard passenger vehicles to include fleet vehicles, mass transit buses, light rails, ships and even off-road vehicles like forklifts. This is particularly interesting when it comes to the role that decarbonization plays and how it can promote emission reduction, energy efficiency and overall sustainability. As this trend begins to take off and more and more states begin to commit to renewable targets for emission reductions, more demand is being placed on the power system. This can create various challenges for utilities, transit authorities and municipalities if not properly prepared, but can also open up many doors of opportunities. Attend this webinar to learn what causes the need for decarbonization, what technologies are being deployed, and how this will impact as well as tie into the grid. Learn how to make your grid “make-ready” for the coming changes.
11 June, 10:00 – 11:00 PM CEST (4:00 PM EST)
“Solar and Wind Forecasting R&D Project Updates” (by Energy Systems Integration Group)
PV forecasting program update. The value of solar forecasting. Short Term Utility scale PV power forecasting in the Australian NEM. This event is a part of 2020 Meteorology & Market Design for Grid Services Workshop.
12 June, 10:00 – 11:30 AM CEST (1:30 PM IST)
“Photovoltaic Basics” (by International Solar Alliance)
Solar experts will give an overview of photovoltaic components and their applications worldwide and in Africa. The basic techniques covered in the webinar: estimation of solar resource on-site; design of a photovoltaic system architecture; performance evaluation. This will be particularly relevant to professionals working with solar applications for the agriculture sector, solar mini-grids and solar rooftops.
12 June, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM CEST
“Ocean Panel Perspectives: Accelerating the Transition to a Sustainable Ocean Economy” (by High Level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy)
Wrapping up an exciting two weeks of global dialogues and debates with the ocean community around the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing the ocean today, this event will feature reflections from key ocean leaders and experts from the High Level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy on the implications for the road ahead for building a sustainable ocean economy. This event will also present key insights from the latest Blue Paper commissioned by the Ocean Panel “The ocean transition: what to learn from systems transitions”.
12 June, 12:30 – 2:00 PM CEST (4:00 PM IST)
“Financing Asia’s Energy Transition: Investment Trends in the Wake of the Pandemic” (by CEEW and IEA)
The worldwide economic shock caused by the COVID-19 pandemic is having a widespread and often dramatic effect on investments in the energy sector. The energy industry that emerges from this crisis will be significantly different from the one before. The webinar will highlight crucial insights for the government, investors and other stakeholders on new risks to energy security and sustainability, and what can be done to mitigate them. The discussion will include a brief presentation of the key trends in energy investments globally – including India and other emerging economies.
12 June, 3:00 – 4:30 PM CEST
“Unleashing the Potential of Finance to Green the Recovery” (by WWF and OECD)
Join the high-level dialogue aimed at informing the development of better, greener and more resilient post-COVID-19 societies. This OECD-WWF dialogue will seek to answer the question of what insights will inform short and mid-term decision-making by governments and key stakeholders.
12 June, 4:00 – 6:15 PM CEST (10:00 AM EST)
“Visualizing Climate Change – Symposium” (by Photography and Archive Research Centre at the London College of Communication, University of the Arts London and VII Photo Agency)
At this time of crisis, it is important to acknowledge the gendered nuances of the impact of climate change, and how women are playing leading roles in affirmative climate action. To mark World Environment Day on the 5th June, this symposium brings together a range of women producing work that is challenging the stereotypes of the visual representation of climate change. Register here.
12 June, 6:00 – 7:00 PM CEST
“Decarbonization: the hit is on” (by Politecnico di Torino)
This event is a part of webinar series “Challenges for Engineers for a Greener Future”. The series include presentations and discussion on five challenges identified by the US National Academies in their publication ““Environmental Engineering for the 21st Century” (2019), plus two specific challenges related to energy transition and raw materials. During the webinar some of Politecnico di Torino faculty members will provide evidence of the contribution that engineering may give to a sustainable future.